GUWAHATI: The trend of re-releasing iconic films is sweeping through Indian cinemas, bringing nostalgic hits back to the big screen. In Guwahati, the phenomenon has reignited moviegoers’ enthusiasm and sparked debates about its impact on the city’s evolving cinema culture.
From Bollywood blockbusters like Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani to many regional gems, re-releases are drawing audiences eager to relive the magic of classic films in theatres. Film distributors and theatre owners in Guwahati report an uptick in footfall, particularly among families and older viewers.
ALSO READ: Revised Voter Lists Published For Five Assembly Constituencies in Kamrup (Metro)
“Films like Sholay and Titanic in remastered formats have brought a unique charm to cinemas,” said the manager of a prominent Guwahati multiplex, while talking to GPlus. “People are excited to see these classics on the big screen, many for the first time.”
The response from Guwahati’s moviegoers has been overwhelmingly positive. Young audiences, who never had the chance to watch these classics in theatres, are thrilled by the opportunity.
“I always wanted to watch Akira. And watching it on the big-screen was a completely different experience,” said Ankit Das, a college student while speaking to GPlus.
Also talking to GPlus, Indresh Kalita, a local of Ulubari said, “It was a wonderful experience watching one of our favourite movies on the big-screen with friends on a Sunday!”
For older generations, re-releases offer a trip down memory lane. “It felt nostalgic to watch Mughal-e-Azam again, especially with my grandchildren. It’s a beautiful way to connect generations,” said homemaker Sunita Devi.
But many may speculate whether this is done to increase profits of the theatre brand or to rake in more revenue for the movie. In this context we decided to speak to an official of one of the most popular brands in Guwahati.
Talking to GPlus, a senior official from PVR said, “This is not done to target profit or to bring in money but to provide a viewing experience for people who have not seen the movies. This is done based on demand of the movie in a certain city.
And, I agree this is a beautiful experience for people of all ages who get to watch the film on a big screen for the first time or again.”
For theatre owners in Guwahati, re-releases are proving to be a boon, helping to fill seats during off-peak times.
“Theatres are experimenting with late-night and matinee shows for classics, which were often underutilised. The results have been promising,” said the owner of a popular cinema hall in Guwahati.
Although, re-releases are taking Guwahati by storm, a balanced approach is necessary. Re-releases should not overshadow new content. Theatres in Guwahati need to maintain a mix of classics, blockbusters, and regional films to cater to all audiences.
As re-releases continue to capture the imagination of movie lovers across India, Guwahati is embracing the trend with enthusiasm.
