Bollywood, Hollywood, Tollywood, And More – Film Industry Nicknames Around The World

Bollywood, Hollywood, Tollywood, And More – Film Industry Nicknames Around The World 2024

Introduction

Hollywood is undoubtedly the most famous and influential film industry in the world. Since its beginnings in the early 20th century, Hollywood has dominated the global film market and set standards for movie making that other industries around the world have sought to emulate.

One of the most obvious examples of Hollywood’s influence is in the nicknames adopted by other film industries. Just as Hollywood is a neighborhood in Los Angeles, California where the American film industry developed, other regions have adopted similar place name-inspired nicknames for their own film industries.

This article will provide an outline and expanded overview of 25 film industries worldwide that have adopted Hollywood-inspired nicknames. We’ll explore where these industries are based, the languages and cultures represented, the types of films produced, and how they have been influenced by and grown in the shadow of the Hollywood system. Understanding these various global film industries provides insight into both the global reach of Hollywood and the rich diversity of cinematic arts internationally.

Bollywood – Mumbai, India

Bollywood, based in Mumbai, is the largest and most well-known film industry in India. The name is a portmanteau of “Bombay” and “Hollywood”, referencing the city it developed in. Bollywood produces films primarily in the Hindi language and is the most prolific industry in India, accounting for around 45% of the country’s film output.

Modern Bollywood traces its origins back to the early 20th century when Indian filmmakers began producing silent films inspired by foreign films from the U.S., U.K, and France. As Indian independence grew nearer, Bollywood films evolved into a distinct style often dealing with sociopolitical issues relevant to Indian audiences.

Today, Bollywood is a massive global enterprise, with over 250 films produced in India in 2014 alone. Bollywood films and movie stars have gained huge popularity beyond India, especially across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and among the South Asian diaspora worldwide. The industry has come to represent both Indian and South Asian culture globally.

While Bollywood has developed its own unique aesthetic, the influence of Hollywood is apparent in filmmaking techniques, production quality, Hollywood-inspired movie plots, and increasing collaborations between Indian and American talent. Bollywood has adopted many conventions of big-budget Hollywood filmmaking to appeal to larger audiences.

Pollywood – Punjab region, India and Pakistan

Pollywood refers to the Punjabi language film industry based in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. Punjabi cinema has existed since the 1930s when the first Punjabi talkie film was released. However, the term Pollywood itself is more recent, emerging in the 21st century as Punjabi films evolved into a more commercially viable industry.

In the early 2000s, only a handful of Punjabi films were being produced annually. Technological improvements, investment in production infrastructures, and renewed audience interest fueled a Punjabi film renaissance. By the late 2000s, over 100 Punjabi films were being released each year.

Pollywood films coming out of India’s Punjab reflect that state’s unique culture. In Pakistan, Punjabi films often portray Islamic traditions and historical tales. Pollywood has also begun attracting Bollywood stars to act in Punjabi films, raising their profile and commercial appeal.

Overall, Pollywood has carved out a distinct niche celebrating Punjabi language and culture while adopting Hollywood and Bollywood techniques to enhance production quality and audience engagement.

Lollywood – Lahore, Pakistan

Lollywood refers to Pakistan’s Lahore-based film industry producing content in Urdu and Punjabi languages. Lollywood has origins dating back to 1929 when the first silent film was produced in Lahore under British rule. After partition and Pakistani independence in 1947, Lahore became the center of Pakistani cinema.

Lollywood experienced a golden age in the 1950s-1960s with classic Urdu films attracting large audiences across South Asia and the Middle East. By the 1970s, Lollywood was in decline due to war, state censorship, and competition from Indian films.

Lollywood saw resurgence in the mid 2000s. Improved technology and infrastructure allowed the industry to modernize. Genres expanded from romantic dramas to action, horror, and social issue films. The success of Urdu-language films like Bol (2011) demonstrated Lollywood’s continued appeal.

While Lollywood has competed with the dominant Bollywood, it has also been influenced by Bollywood commercially and aesthetically over the decades. Lollywood brings distinct Pakistani flavor and language to its films for local and international markets.

Chhollywood – Chhattisgarh, India

Chhollywood refers to the emerging film industry in the state of Chhattisgarh in central India. Chhollywood films are produced in the Chhattisgarhi language and celebrate local culture.

The 2000 establishment of Chhattisgarh as an independent state bolstered a distinct Chhattisgarhi cultural identity. Chhollywood produced its first film in the early 2000s following this, and has steadily grown since.

While Chhollywood remains small compared to other Indian film industries, it has developed impressively in a short time. Chhattisgarhi films highlight local issues, folklore, and theatrics. Chhollywood films utilize talented local crews for production. The digital age has made filmmaking more affordable.

As Chhollywood expands, it faces challenges in infrastructure and marketing films beyond Chhattisgarh. But with dedicated local talent and evolving technology, Chhollywood has emerged as an authentic film industry promoting and preserving Chhattisgarhi language and heritage.

Tollywood – West Bengal, India and Andhra Pradesh/Telangana, India

Tollywood refers to two distinct film industries in India based on the languages produced – Bengali and Telugu.

The Bengali Tollywood is based in Tollygunge, Kolkata in the state of West Bengal. It dates back to the early 20th century under British rule when silent films were made in Bengal. As one of India’s major film hubs, Bengali cinema reflects West Bengal culture. The 1950s-1960s were considered a golden age for Bengali films.

The Telugu Tollywood industry is focused in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states in southcentral India. Telugu films have been made since the silent era, but the Telugu industry expanded in the 1980s. Today, Telugu Tollywood rivals Bollywood in its prolific productions and revenues. Telugu films often feature lavish production design with exaggerated action sequences.

Both Bengali and Telugu Tollywood have strong local followings while embracing influences from Bollywood and Hollywood for wider appeal. The shared Tollywood name highlights how Hollywood has inspired regional naming.

Kollywood – Tamil Nadu, India and Nepal

Kollywood refers to Tamil cinema from Tamil Nadu in southern India as well as Nepal’s domestic film industry.

The Tamil industry was established in the 1910s while India was still under British administration. Cinema houses emerged in Madras (Chennai), and silent films were produced based on ancient Hindu epics and Dravidian mythology. The name Kollywood derives from Kodambakkam, Chennai’s filmmaking neighborhood.

Tamil films grew within the Dravidian political movement, leading to a distinct style and ideological slant. Stars like M.G Ramachandran brought Tamil films wide acclaim. Tamil directors such as Mani Ratnam and Bharatiraja also enhanced Kollywood’s reputation.

In Nepal, Kathmandu’s modern film industry adopted the Kollywood name despite producing films in the Nepali language. Nepali Kollywood grew in the 1990s as democracy expanded. Nepali Kollywood films often carry messages about social issues and political reform.

Tamil Kollywood and Nepali Kollywood developed separately but show how the “Kollywood” brand has extended beyond India.

Mollywood – Kerala, India

Mollywood refers to the Malayalam film industry in the state of Kerala in southern India. Malayalam is the region’s Dravidian language.

Malayalam films emerged in the late 1920s with the first talkie made in 1938. Early films often told stories rooted in Kerala’s culture and rural landscapes. Mollywood grew within Kerala’s strong theater tradition.

In the 1960s-70s, Malayalam cinema experienced a renaissance with acclaimed directors crafting films addressing social issues. Stars like Prem Nazir rose to fame. Films attained both commercial success and critical praise.

Mollywood has remained focused on authentic, community-based stories. Technological leaps and expanded distribution widened Mollywood’s reach while retaining its regional flair. While adopting Hollywood and Bollywood techniques, Mollywood stands out in Indian cinema for its commitment to serious cinema.

Sandalwood – Karnataka, India

Sandalwood refers to the Kannada film industry in the state of Karnataka and the Kannada language.

Silent Kannada films appeared in the late 1920s, and talkies emerged after 1931 centered in Bangalore. Iconic screen stars like Rajkumar propelled Kannada cinema starting in the 1950s. Mythology and folklore were common themes.

Sandalwood films came to be identified with the state’s culture and heritage. Cinema also reflected Karnataka’s linguistic diversity with films made in Tulu, Konkani and other regional languages.

After a decline in the 1980s-90s, Sandalwood revived with new production houses and influx of talent. Films expanded beyond rural dramas to action and romances with improved technology.

Sandalwood balances influences from Indian national cinema and global entertainment trends while remaining devoted to Kannada language and culture. The name connects Karnataka’s film legacy to Hollywood.

Jollywood – Assam, India

Jollywood refers to cinema produced in the northeastern Indian state of Assam in the Assamese language.

The first Assamese film was made under British rule in 1935 based on a popular play. After Indian independence, filmmaking expanded leading to establishment of Jollywood in Guwahati.

Early Jollywood films were often adapted from Assamese literature and theater dealing with social issues, reflective of the state’s arts traditions. Prominent directors like Bhabendra Nath Saikia created major works in the 1970s-80s.

In the 21st century, digital filmmaking has enabled new experimental films. Mobile cinemas bring movies to remote areas. Jollywood continues to portray Assam’s unique hybrid culture amid globalization.

While small, Jollywood has vitalized Assamese language and established a space for Assam’s identity through cinema nationally and globally.

Ollywood – Odisha, India

Ollywood refers to Odia language films produced in Odisha state in eastern India.

Odia films emerged under British rule in the late 1930s and early 40s. Post-independence, the industry grew steadily with mythological and folk narratives.

By the 1960s, Odia cinema entered a golden age. Iconic filmmakers like Nitai Palit and masterpieces like Kaa brought critical success. Odia art house films garnered national awards, while commercial hits drew large crowds.

After declining in the 1980s, Ollywood revived in the late 90s with improved technology. Digital distribution also expanded Odia cinema’s reach.

Ollywood now balances artistry and entertainment. It channels Odisha’s culture while adopting Hollywood and Bollywood conventions. The name ties the region’s legacy to the Hollywood dream factory.

Sollywood – Sindh, Pakistan

Sollywood refers to the Sindhi film industry in Pakistan producing films in the Sindhi language.

Sindhi cinema emerged in the late 1940s after Pakistan’s independence. Early films portrayed rural life, music and Islamic devotion. The 1962 film Abana boosted the industry with widespread popularity.

Political turmoil and the Bangladesh Liberation War obstructed Sindhi film production in the 1970s. But Sindhi films saw a revival in the late 1980s and 1990s. Modern films explore social issues like discrimination, while employing updated technology and production values.

Sollywood promotes Sindhi linguistic identity and culture within Pakistan’s diverse national cinema. The name Sollywood connects Sindhi film traditions to the wider Hollywood phenomenon.

Dhaliwood – Bangladesh

Dhaliwood refers to Bangladesh’s film industry, nicknamed by fusing “Dhaka” with “Hollywood.”

Film production started in what is now Bangladesh in the 1920s when it was part of India under British rule. After the 1947 partition, filmmakers migrated from Kolkata to Dhaka shaping a distinct Bangladeshi style.

Following independence in 1971, Bangladeshi films portrayed the country’s culture and history, garnering enthusiasm locally. But poor technology and infrastructure limited the industry’s growth.

Digital filmmaking has recently improved Bangladeshi cinema’s capabilities. Bangladesh also increased film exports providing a larger global platform for Dhaliwood.

Dhaliwood mixes Hollywood storytelling with authentic Bangladeshi themes. The playful name links Bangladesh’s film identity to the global Hollywood brand.

Kariwood – Karachi, Pakistan

Kariwood refers to the film industry centered in Pakistan’s southern port city of Karachi.

Karachi became a filmmaking hub after Pakistan’s 1947 partition when Muslim artists migrated from India. As the country’s largest city, Karachi was well-suited for film studios and cinema houses.

Kariwood produces films mainly in Urdu, complementing the output of Pakistan’s Lahore-based Lollywood. Kariwood also releases Sindhi and Punjabi language films.

Recently, Kariwood has produced acclaimed social issue films like Bol (2011) and Khuda Ke Liye (2007) helmed by top directors like Shoaib Mansoor. Karachi’s developing infrastructure and teeming youth population promise continued cinematic growth.

The play on “Karachi” and “Hollywood” in Kariwood’s name signifies the industry’s cosmopolitan aspirations.

Kaliwood – Kathmandu, Nepal

Kaliwood refers to the film industry based in Kathmandu producing Nepali language cinema.

Filmmaking began in Nepal in the 1950s under the monarchy. Early films portrayed idyllic themes glorifying the royal family and nation. The industry expanded after 1990 when democracy was instituted.

Nepali films transitioned to explore social issues, conflict, and urbanization in modern Nepal. While filmmaking infrastructure is underdeveloped, digital technologies have enabled new cinematic experimentation.

Foreign competition has challenged Nepali film’s domestic market share. But dedicated filmmakers and growing screens keep Kaliwood vital for Nepali culture.

The Hollywood-inspired name links Nepal’s cinema to global film craft and ambition.

Dhollywood – Gujarat, India

Dhollywood signifies the Gujarati film industry in Gujarat state in western India.

Gujarati cinema started under British rule in 1932 based in Bombay. The first Gujarati talkie came in 1940 as the industry took shape. After Indian independence, film production shifted to Ahmedabad and Rajkot in Gujarat.

Gujarati films gained popularity among local and diaspora audiences for their musicality and connection to regional culture. Day-to-day life, literary adaptations and devotion are common themes.

Dhollywood once rivaled Bollywood’s output, producing 150 films annually in its peak. Cheaper production modes revived Dhollywood in the 2000s.

Dhollywood sustains Gujarati cultural heritage through cinema for local and global audiences. The playful name links Gujarat’s legacy to Hollywood glamor.

Ghollywood – Ghana

Ghollywood refers to Ghana’s film industry headquartered in Accra.

Film production started in Ghana in the early 20th century when it was a British colony, merging colonial influences and local traditions. After independence in 1957, President Kwame Nkrumah promoted filmmaking, leading to growth.

Modern Ghanaian films portray African social issues, history, and folklore. Many films directly tackle the impacts of colonialism and slavery. Ghanaian cinema is among Africa’s most prolific and acclaimed.

Local blockbusters like Kwaw Ansah’s Love Brewed in an African Pot (1980) demonstrate Ghollywood’s creative base and viewer interest in Ghanaian stories.

Ghollywood mixes old and new, local and global. The name connects Ghana’s cinematic achievements to the Hollywood model.

Hillywood – Rwanda

Hillywood refers to Rwanda’s film industry and its home in the hilly capital of Kigali.

Rwandan filmmaking has grown since the early 2000s following the 1994 genocide and civil war. A national film commission, training programs and global support have expanded film production.

Rwandan films often relate to the country’s history and experience with genocide. Documentaries and features portray the social impacts of violence and path to reconciliation. International co-productions have widened distribution.

While still emerging, Hillywood tells Rwandan stories to process national trauma and highlight future hopes through cinema.

The name Hillywood ties Rwanda’s burgeoning film identity to the global phenomenon of Hollywood.

Kannywood – Kano, Nigeria

Kannywood refers to the Hausa language film industry based in the northern Nigerian city of Kano.

Hausa films emerged in the 1990s as Nigeria’s prolific Nollywood industry grew. Kannywood films reflect Islamic and Hausa cultural traditions of northern Nigeria. The industry is centered around Kano, where many production companies and studios are based