Why Bollywood Movies Incorporate Irrelevant Songs While Hollywood Focuses on Relevance

Once upon a time, songs in movies served as powerful narrative tools, expanding and compressing time effectively. They evolved into art forms that complemented the visual storytelling, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. However, over the years, the role of songs in films has transformed. Today, we witness a trend where certain storytellers rely heavily on songs not for their artistic value, but for their ability to capture the audience's attention despite weak storylines. This article explores the contrasting approaches of Bollywood and Hollywood when it comes to incorporating songs into their films, questioning the relevance and utility of such sequences.

The Evolution of Songs in Movies

The initial era of films saw songs as integral parts of storytelling, often serving to bridge narrative gaps or provide a visual representation of a character's emotions. Over time, songs were recognized as valuable marketing tools, adding value to the movies beyond just the story. However, this evolution took a turn for the worse, with some filmmakers relying too heavily on songs at the expense of meaningful narrative. In this era, songs have become repetitive and devoid of real value, often found playing in low-rent dance clubs.

The Relevance Debate: Bollywood vs. Hollywood

When it comes to the relevance of songs in movies, opinions vary. Hollywood is renowned for its serious approach, often excluding songs that do not align with the central narrative. In contrast, Bollywood thrives on a culture of spectacle, where songs often transcend storylines and character arcs, taking center stage. Stories in Bollywood are blest with an array of emotions and scenarios, and songs serve as a vital component in capturing these moments.

Storytelling Techniques in Bollywood

Bollywood films often include a variety of elements, from romance and comedy to suspense and tragedy, all within the same narrative frame. Songs are a critical part of this diverse storytelling, helping to enhance the emotional depth of the scenes. Even in films with limited storylines, the inclusion of good music often leads to commercial success. This approach helps to showcase the idea that Bollywood views songs as a cultural imperative rather than just an optional addition.

Hollywood's Approach to Songs

Hollywood, on the other hand, takes a more focused approach to storytelling. Their films often revolve around a specific genre or theme, making the inclusion of unnecessary songs somewhat redundant. The Oscar category for Best Original Song is a testament to the value Hollywood attaches to music, but it is often scarce outside of romantic films. Thriller and horror movies typically avoid songs altogether, as they prefer to maintain the suspense and tension. Animation movies, however, often incorporate songs and dance sequences, mirroring the Bollywood approach.

Conclusion: Balancing Act of Relevance

Both Bollywood and Hollywood have valid approaches to incorporating songs into their films. While Bollywood thrives on spectacle and emotional depth, often sacrificing the story for music, Hollywood prioritizes relevance and focus. It is crucial for filmmakers to strike a balance between these elements to ensure that songs are not just an afterthought but a meaningful part of the overall storytelling. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to question and value the role of songs in enhancing the cinematic experience.