Shiva Remake: Will It Still Make Sense Now?

Ram Gopal Varma’s iconic college drama Shiva with Akkineni Nagarjuna in the lead role was a trendsetter during 90s. The film made everyone take notice of Telugu cinema at that time and also paved way for many such youthful entertainers with college backdrop and action elements not just in Tollywood but also in other languages. This is why Shiva is regarded as a cult classic. 

After 36 years, the blockbuster film is returning to theatres this 14th to take moviegoers on a nostalgic trip with an enhanced viewing experience in terms of sound design and visuals. The re-release has garnered huge attention and both Nagarjuna and RGV are going all out to promote the film. During their media interactions, both of them are sharing their honest opinions about the idea of remaking this film. 

When Nagarjuna was asked whether his sons Naga Chaitanya or Akhil would love to remake this film, he quickly responded saying that both of them don’t have guts to try it. While Nagarjuna’s opinion might sound true because both Chaitu and Akhil never really evinced interest to remake any hit films of their father till now for one or the other reason, any attempts to recreate Shiva wouldn’t work in the current era for many reasons. 

There is no doubt that Siva offered a one-of-its-kind experience to moviegoers in those days. It changed the dynamics of Telugu cinema and also earned respect in other languages. There are many moments in the film which are still relevant even till today. But, a lot has changed in all these years between the release of Shiva and its re-release. 

Telugu cinema has come a long way now. Larger-than-life movies are now the flavour of the season. Films with college backdrop and action elements is no longer a viable formula for commercial success. Visual spectacles, over-the-top fight sequences, high end technical values are quite common for all films these days. 

So, trying to remake a film like Shiva will be a risky proposition as it will not only trigger huge backlash in the event of failure, but also spoil the legacy created by the original movie. It doesn’t make any sense now.