The success of a film often hinges on numerous factors, and while many elements can lead to a flop, sometimes it is the seemingly minor issues that cause significant damage. A recent discussion has emerged around the use of English titles for Telugu films, raising questions about their effectiveness in reaching broader audiences.
Traditionally, films featuring star actors tend to have titles that are easily memorable and resonate with audiences. However, when it comes to films with medium or lesser-known heroes, the trend of using English titles appears to be less effective. This has led to a growing concern that these titles may be hindering the films’ ability to connect with the masses.
For example, the film “The Great Pre-Wedding Show,” featuring a smaller hero, was released in December last year. Despite receiving positive feedback from viewers, it failed to make a substantial impact at the box office. Many analysts believe that inadequate promotional strategies, combined with a title that was difficult for the average audience to pronounce, were contributing factors to its limited reach.
In early this month, another film titled “Euphoria,” directed by Gunasekhar, hit the theaters but also garnered mixed reviews. The choice of an English title, coupled with a lack of understanding of its meaning among many viewers, may have played a role in its underwhelming performance. Even educated audiences struggled to grasp the title’s significance, which raises concerns about how the film was perceived by audiences in B and C centers.
Moreover, last week’s release “Couple Friendly” received positive reactions from urban audiences and the media, yet it struggled to generate significant box office revenue in smaller markets. While the film’s premise based on live-in relationships was relatable, the use of an English title may have contributed to its lackluster performance in these regions. This trend is not new; over the past two decades, many Telugu films with English titles have underperformed at the box office.
While certain films like “RRR,” “DJ Tillu,” “Major,” and “Hit” have enjoyed massive success despite their English titles, they are exceptions rather than the rule. The majority of films with English titles in Telugu cinema have not fared well, leading to a general consensus that the title can significantly impact a movie’s success.
Although it is difficult to generalize across all films, the evidence suggests that a poorly chosen title could indeed spell trouble for a film. As the industry continues to evolve, filmmakers may need to reconsider their approach to titling, especially for films aimed at reaching a wider audience. The debate surrounding English titles in Telugu cinema is likely to persist, prompting a re-evaluation of what truly resonates with viewers.
