Why are Indian filmmakers suddenly finding the bachcha party such a lucrative target segment? The answer lies in the massive success of superhit series like Harry Potter, Spy Kids and Wall E that have forced kids to make a beeline at theatres. However, when desi directors opted for the same mantra, apna kiddos opted to stay away from the ticket counters. Animation, mythology, Hollywood duplicates and friendly ghosts — B-Town has flirted with every kind of story idea to attract the young audience. However, barring a few attempts, nothing seems to have worked. Here is an analysis of several talked about kid flicks on the basis of their content, execution and success. Read on…

Bachna ae bachchon

Those who sank without trace.

Bhootnath: The film tells the story of a ghost inside a swanky but uninhabited house in Goa. The 'bhoot', Kailash Nath (Amitabh Bachchan), vows to never let anyone live in that house but unknowingly strikes a friendship with the kid of the house, Banku. Despite the presence of stalwarts Big B, Juhi Chawla and Shah Rukh Khan, the film failed to grab eyeballs,thanks to a wafer thin plot and shoddy execution.

Bhoot Unkle: This one had King Uncle Jackie Shroff in a Jack Sparrowish avatar (Sounds ewww and looked as much!) playing a godfather to a abused child. A lacklusture script along with some seriously substandard special effects robbed the film of the original idea.

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic: Kunal Kohli attempting a Nanny McPhee with an obtuse Rani Mukerji fell flat on its face.

Chain Kuli Ki Main Kuli: Said in simple words: A decent storyline spoilt by bad direction. The story followed an orphan urchin who happens to be a gifted cricketer. Playing his mentor was actor Rahul Bose. The movie had its moments but madness reigned over them.

Raju Chacha: One of the most expensive films ever made in Bollyland, this Anil Devgan flick
was a big disappointment. Often referred as a venture ahead of its time, Raju Chacha, despite its massive sets, crisp cinematography and star presence, couldn't be saved.


Classic hai!

Little brats doted on these...

The Blue Umbrella: An adaptation of Ruskin Bond's short story, this Vishal Bharadwaj venture  told the tale of greed in kids' language. A hot fave with the critics, the film, however, didn't fare very well at the box office.

Makdee: Yet another wonderful rendition from Vishal Bhardwaj. Makdee won the second prize at the Children's Film Festival, 2003 in Chicago. Starring child actor Shweta Prasad in the double role of Chunni and Munni and the maverick Shabana Azmi as the witch (in an ultra grotesque look), the film took an entertaining look at superstition. A smart script and with peppy lyrics by Gulzar and endearing performances by the chhote stars, this was one kids movie that even adults enjoyed.

Krrish: A sequel to the superhit Koi Mil Gaya, this one was bound to be a winner by all means. This was Bollywood's first mature attempt at a superhero flick. With a super dishy Hrithik Roshan and international crew in tow, Krrish was all about flying higher and higher.

Chhota Chetan: One of the earliest kiddie flicks, this one is best remembered for its 3D effects. Starring Urmila Matondkar, the film tells the story of four friends who befriend a magical youth called Chetan who takes them on a trip to faraway land. The film is still remembered for making 3D chashmas famous.

Hanuman: Mythology is mighty cool, proved this 2005 flick. God Hanuman was no more this larger than life deity, but someone kids could relate to. With animation as the selling point, this one also had the cute as a button Hanuman to dote on. The film was lapped up by the kids and grown ups all across. Its sequel Hanuman Returns, however, proved to be a damp squib at the box office thanks to an overzealous script.

My friend Ganesha: With Hanuman leading the pack, soon other Gods found their entry into the world of animation. Of the lot, it was My Friend Ganesha which attracted audience's attention. The film did good business at the BO and was followed by a sequel.


Desi Harry Potter?

No, it has no connection with the iconic boy wizard. Touted as Bollywood's film in  starring child actors in lead roles, Hari Puttar, which released recently, stars child actors Zain Khan and Swini Kalra (of Cheeni Kum fame) along with yesteryear beauty Sarika. The film is gaining popularity among the younger audience in spite of its heavy resemblance to Hollywood top grosser Home Alone. The flick's lead, Khan, who was in town recently,  was all pepped up about his big break. "Our film has lots of fun and pranks, something that the kids can relate to. Though our industry makes a lot of kid flicks, most of lack creativity." Erm...okay, if you say so!