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Cinema

Star Power Still Matters, But Story Is Winning

Streaming has changed the balance between celebrity pull and strong writing.

KI
Kavya Iyer
Published May 7, 2026
Star Power Still Matters, But Story Is Winning
Star Power Still Matters, But Story Is Winning · The Indian Daily Post

Star power still matters in Indian entertainment, but it no longer guarantees success on its own.

Streaming viewers may click because of a familiar actor, but they stay only if the story works. Weak writing is harder to hide when audiences can switch platforms instantly.

"India's story in 2026 is no longer about catching up — it's about defining what comes next."

This creates opportunities for new actors, directors and writers. Strong storytelling can now travel further than before.

Casting directors say breakout actors of the last two years have come overwhelmingly from streaming, not theatrical, projects.

Kavya Iyer reports for The Indian Daily Post on cinema and policy.

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