Rakesh Bedi: Modern Cinema Losing Its Emotional Core

December 12, 2025

Actor Rakesh Bedi, known for his iconic comic timing and memorable roles across film, television, and theatre, has opened up about what he believes is the biggest drawback of contemporary cinema the loss of emotional depth. In a candid conversation, Bedi said that while Indian cinema has made remarkable strides in technology and scale, it has simultaneously lost the warmth, sensitivity, and storytelling finesse that once defined its identity.

Industry’s Over-Reliance on Spectacle Diluting Storytelling

According to Bedi, the shift toward high-budget spectacle is one of the primary reasons behind the emotional disconnect prevalent in modern films. Today’s cinema, he noted, is driven by grand action sequences, glamorous packaging, VFX-heavy visuals, and fast-paced narratives that often overshadow the core of a story.

He explained that filmmakers are increasingly investing in the “external appeal” of movies special effects, exotic locations, fancy cinematography while giving less attention to writing layered characters and emotionally resonant scenes. As a result, the audience may feel thrilled visually but not moved emotionally.

He added that earlier films left a lasting impact because “the drama was real, the emotions were rooted, and characters had depth.” Modern films, he feels, too often rely on formulas and trends rather than authentic storytelling.

Classic Cinema Knew How to Make You Feel, Says Bedi

Taking a nostalgic look back, Bedi said films from previous decades had an emotional richness that made them unforgettable. Movies like Chupke Chupke, Chashme Baddoor, Padosan, Gol Maal and others balanced humour, heart, and narrative depth seamlessly. Audiences could relate to the characters and their emotions because they were written with sincerity and performed with vulnerability.

He pointed out that back then, comedy wasn’t dependent on slapstick or a single “comedian” character. Instead, humour emerged naturally from situations, interactions, and personality quirks — something that made comedies timeless.

Audience Preferences Are Also Changing

Bedi also acknowledged that audience preferences have evolved. The younger generation consumes fast-paced content short videos, reels, and OTT shows which often prioritize instant entertainment over reflection or emotional build-up. This shift has, in part, influenced filmmakers to adapt their styles, leaning more heavily on speed and spectacle.

However, Bedi believes that the appetite for emotional stories still exists, and the success of certain films proves that viewers continue to crave genuine, heartfelt narratives when they are presented well.

Comedy in Films: Organic Humour Has Declined

Reflecting on comedy specifically, Bedi said today’s humour often feels forced or exaggerated. Many films depend on punchlines and caricature-like portrayals rather than the nuanced, situational humour that characterized classics.

He compared it with television shows like Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain and Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, where comedy flows naturally from the script and characters. Bedi noted that the popularity of these shows underscores the audience’s appreciation for organic, character-driven comedy, even in the modern entertainment landscape.

Bedi’s Current Work Reflects His Versatility

On the professional front, Rakesh Bedi was recently seen in the action thriller Dhurandhar, where he played Jameel Jamali, a cunning Pakistani politician navigating a web of intrigue and power. Starring Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and Sara Arjun, the film allowed Bedi to showcase a more serious and layered performance, further proving his versatility.

Even after decades in the industry, Bedi continues to explore challenging roles in films, TV, and theatre, while also mentoring young actors and engaging in conversations about cinema’s evolution.

Call for Balanced Filmmaking

Concluding his thoughts, Bedi said he hopes the industry strikes a balance between innovation and emotional storytelling. He believes technology and spectacle can elevate a film, but they should not replace the soul of cinema — emotions, relationships, conflict, and human connection.

“Ultimately,” he said, “audiences remember how films make them feel, not how loud or flashy they were.”