Reading Task 3

Bollywood

When the technology to create movies was first developed, it was difficult to light indoor scenes very well. Directors realized they needed a permanent sunny location for their film studios – a place where they could film outdoors most of the year. That’s why American filmmakers chose Hollywood, in California. A great many movies are made in Hollywood, or nearby. But even more movies are made in a place you may have never even heard of -- “Bollywood.”

What is Bollywood? In the 1930’s, the city of Bombay, in India, started making more movies than any other city in India. It quickly earned the nickname “Bollywood” -- a combination of “Bombay” and “Hollywood.”

Hollywood might be more famous, but more movies are made in Bollywood than anywhere else in the world. More than 1,000 movies are made in Bollywood every year, compared to approximately 700 in Hollywood. While Hollywood movies earn more money, more people see Bollywood films.

Bollywood films tend to have certain themes and characteristics that might seem to you if you aren’t familiar with their style. First, Bollywood films are usually three hours long. A typical Hollywood film is less than two hours long. Bollywood films always have an intermission, during which filmgoers go to the restroom, buy snacks, or chat.

The most common theme in Bollywood films is that love overcomes all obstacles. Typically, a man and woman fall in love, perhaps from different classes. Their parents object, and the couple must choose between obeying tradition or following the call of their hearts.

Stylistically, what truly sets Bollywood films apart is that the plot is mostly an excuse for song and dance routines. India’s most well known singers usually provide the music, and the actors lip-sync. The actors also dance – like crazy! A good Bollywood dance routine has hundreds of dancers in flamboyant colors, all on extravagant, expensive sets. Audiences in India not only tolerate these dance interruptions – they expect and demand them. It is common for audience members to sing and dance along in the theater. The soundtrack is often released before the movie, so the audience comes in knowing the music.

Hollywood certainly has hits with special effects movies like “Star Wars” or “The Dark Knight.” But Bollywood has “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.” Haven’t you heard of it? It means “A Match Made in Heaven.” It made a great deal of money in India, and it earned more in the U.S. than many independent movies do. Bollywood films are growing in popularity throughout the U.S. Maybe one day soon you’ll see one – but remember to bring your dancing shoes.

What is the MOST important reason that Bollywood audiences are able to sing along with the movie?