R. Madhavan Advocates for Age-Appropriate Romance in Indian Cinema

The actor emphasizes the need for mature storytelling and equal representation in romantic roles, highlighting the lack of age-appropriate female leads and compelling narratives in contemporary Indian films.

Veteran actor R. Madhavan, renowned for his roles in romantic classics like Alaipayuthey and Tanu Weds Manu, has voiced concerns about the current state of romantic storytelling in Indian cinema. In a recent interview, Madhavan emphasized the importance of age-appropriate casting and the need for more mature narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages.

Championing Age-Appropriate Roles

At 52, Madhavan is selective about the roles he takes on, particularly in the romance genre. He insists on portraying characters that align with his age and experiences, stating, “I have to be age-appropriate in my roles. It is not that I am romancing a young girl now. It is not something that I want to do.”

Highlighting the Legacy of Shah Rukh Khan

While acknowledging Shah Rukh Khan’s unparalleled ability to portray romance, Madhavan points out the industry’s failure to pair such seasoned actors with age-appropriate female leads. He notes the scarcity of women in the industry who match the age and presence of actors like Khan, which hampers the authenticity of mature love stories.

Critique of Contemporary Romantic Narratives

Madhavan expresses concern over the lack of compelling romantic films, especially on streaming platforms. He observes that Indian cinema has fallen behind in crafting engaging, mature love stories, unlike the successful Korean dramas that have captivated global audiences. “I don’t recall any romcom that has worked on OTT platforms either,” he remarks.

Advocating for Better Writing

The actor believes that the older generation brings a deeper understanding of love, shaped by life experiences. However, he attributes the dearth of mature romantic films to a lack of quality writing. Citing the 1997 Hollywood film As Good as It Gets as an example, Madhavan underscores the potential of well-written, age-appropriate romantic narratives to resonate with audiences.

A Call for Change

Madhavan’s insights shed light on the need for Indian cinema to evolve, embracing stories that reflect the complexities of love at different life stages. By advocating for age-appropriate casting and richer storytelling, he hopes to inspire a new wave of romantic films that offer authenticity and depth, appealing to a broader spectrum of viewers.