Sequels are not new to Tollywood. They’ve existed for quite some time, but many in the past turned out to be disasters. However, in recent times, the success rate of sequels has improved significantly.
Let’s analyze the reasons behind sequels becoming either disasters or blockbusters, with a few examples.
Let’s start with Shiva (2006) by RGV, released 17 years after the iconic Shiva (1989). While the original was impactful, the sequel lacked soul, from casting to content, and ended up a disaster.
Similarly, Satya 2 (2013), a follow-up to the cult classic Satya (1998), failed due to a weak connection with the original's essence.
Arya 2 didn’t click despite the brand value of Arya, suffering from lack of a strong hook even at release.
Kathanayakudu and its sequel Mahanayakudu flopped due to weak storytelling, merely resembling a documentary on NTR’s life.
Kick 2 failed to meet expectations, and Sardaar Gabbar Singh fell flat due to a change in director and lack of originality.
The above films came in the pre-OTT era, where audience recall of original titles was low. OTT platforms weren’t widespread, so sequels didn’t benefit from renewed viewership of first parts.
Yatra 2 (2024), released in the OTT era, still failed — this time due to political fatigue among viewers. The political mood that helped Yatra (2019) didn’t exist anymore in 2024.
Indian 2 is a textbook example of a disastrous sequel despite being helmed by the same director who made Indian a blockbuster in the '90s. Poorest content was the culprit.
On the flip side, most blockbuster sequels are post-COVID. Thanks to OTT exposure, many audiences have seen the first parts and built emotional connections. Polimera, for instance, gained traction on OTT, leading to Polimera 2 performing well in theatres.
Other successful sequels include KGF 2, Pushpa 2, Tillu Square, MAD 2, and Mathu Vadalara 2.
However, Baahubali 2, the biggest hit, isn’t a typical sequel — it simply completed the unfinished story from part 1.
Currently in production are HIT 3, Goodachari 2, Akhanda 2, and Jai Hanuman, all with massive audience expectations. However, as always, it's the content that ultimately decides the fate.
