Even before Stree 2 hit theatres and took off to a bumper start, fans debated who would claim the success of this horror-comedy - Shraddha Kapoor or Rajkummar Rao. Rajkummar Rao is in stellar form in both the 2018 film Stree and its sequel. Shraddha Kapoor also shines here, with her star appeal working big time. However, a significant portion of the film's success and appeal also belongs to director Amar Kaushik, who has presented the horror-comedy in a highly appealing manner to mainstream audiences. Additionally, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee, and Pankaj Tripathi deserve credit, as Stree 2's comic appeal largely stems from the impeccable timing of these wonderful actors. The marketing team also earns brownie points for producing a well-cut trailer and releasing exciting songs that maintain momentum. Quite a few moving parts contributed to the success of Stree 2. ‘Stree 2’ Box Office Collection Day 1: ‘Sarfira’, ‘Chandu Champion’, ‘Mr and Mrs Mahi’ and More – Rajkummar Rao-Shraddha Kapoor’s Movie Crushes Lifetime Earnings of 20 Bollywood Biggies of 2024!

However, while people argue over who the true star of Stree 2 is, one term that has been thrown around is 'female-oriented.' Many claim that Stree 2 is a 'female-oriented' movie, presumably because of - 1. the title, and 2. Shraddha Kapoor is positioned at the centre of most promotional material.

'Female-Centric'

'First Female Led Film to Achieve Mass Opening'

'Femaled Oriented Movies'

'Elitist Gang'

'Defeated Alpha Male'

The question is - Is it though?

The argument for the first point is straightforward—'Stree' in the title of both the 2018 film and its 2024 sequel refers to the supernatural antagonist of the first film, who also appears in the sequel. While Shraddha's nameless character gains powers from Stree's cut hairlock, she doesn't become 'Stree,' so she isn't the title character.

Watch the Trailer of 'Stree 2':

Responding to the second point is more complicated. To do that, let's first understand what a 'female-oriented' movie means. A female-oriented film, or 'female-centric' as some call it, is designed to appeal primarily to women through its themes, characters, or narrative focus. These movies often centre on female characters' experiences, challenges, and perspectives, exploring topics such as relationships, careers, family, self-discovery, or personal growth. In such movies, we expect well-written female characters with a narrative focus. ‘Stree 2’ Movie Review: A Stellar Rajkummar Rao and a ‘Massy’ Shraddha Kapoor Are Electrifying Together in This ‘Laughs & Spooks’-Packed Sequel.

It is within this definition that Stree 2 falters. Some SPOILERS ahead: while there is no argument that Shraddha Kapoor plays a crucial role in both Stree films, the primary focus of these movies, particularly in Stree 2, has always been Vicky and his friends—especially Vicky, Rao's character. It also has to be noted that Shraddha's role in Stree 2 is also lesser than her screentime in Stree. Stree 2 may address patriarchy's role in subjugating women's freedom and rights (in its irreverent manner). Yet, it relies on the camaraderie between the boys for its comic kicks and for the plot to be driven. Even in the climax, Vicky's character must wield the sword needed to defeat Sarkata, the demonic villain, even if it is 'Stree' who delivers the finishing moves.

Stree 2 also fails the 'Bechdel Test.' Let's find out how.

Bechdel Test

The Bechdel test is a measure used to evaluate the representation of women in films and other works of fiction. To pass the Bechdel test, a work must meet the following three criteria compulsorily: it features at least two named female characters, these characters have a conversation with each other, and the conversation is about something other than a man.

Let's see how Stree 2 performs against each of these points:

1. The movie passes this one since it has more than two named female characters. Even if Shraddha's character isn't named, we have 'Stree.' We also have Anya Singh's character, Chitti, as well as Tamannaah's character, Shama.

2. This is where Stree 2 fails. Aside from the final scene, where Shraddha's character wordlessly interacts with her dead mother, there are no other crucial scenes where female characters interact with each other.

3. Again, with no important conversation between two female characters in the movie, this point also feels redundant.

A few Hindi movies from 2024 that pass the Bechdel test are Kiran Rao's Laapataa Ladies and Rajesh Krishnan's Crew. Unfortunately, Stree 2 doesn't make the cut.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 16, 2024 03:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).