IP is king in Bollywood gossip, and the chatter centers on Maddock chasing a Maddock Cinematic Universe even as Bhediya and Thaama reportedly flop. The big question: can a shared world survive when core films underperform at the box office? Some tea says Stree 2 helped the studio punch above earlier lows, and Ayushmann might land a role in the next outing, signaling star power still fuels sequels [1].
Main bets and warnings from the chatter:
• Maddock Cinematic Universe — The idea of cross-film storytelling hinges on what audiences accept after Bhediya and Thaama; the verdict so far is mixed, with fans noting Stree 2's success as a proof of concept more than a blueprint [1].
• Hollywood vs Bollywood — The debate often swings to IP vs stars, with references to Captain America, Thor, and Marvel as examples of IP pull, while Ayushmann remains India’s star-driven pull for now [1].
• Agent Vinod — The original spy universe that didn’t happen. Sriram Raghavan and Saif Ali Khan aimed for a stylish franchise with Kareena Kapoor in the lead, but overbudget tension and creative clash reportedly led to a flop and a rift that kept Saif Ali Khan from collaborating with Raghavan again [2].
Closing thought: gossip and budgets shape investor appetite for sequels. For now, the universe gamble in Indian cinema remains a high-wire act, with the next Maddock release watched closely to see if IP can outsize misfires [1].
References
How are Maddock guys creating a universe and part 2's when their movies like Bhediya and Thaama are flops?
Discusses Maddock's universe idea, flops vs. hits, star power vs IP, budgets, and potential impact on future sequels.
View sourceAgent Vinod - the original Spy universe that didn't happen and fallout between hero and director
Discusses Agent Vinod collaboration, budget blowouts, fallout between Saif Ali Khan and director; praise for music and Kareena's look.
View source