Cinema VinesWhen the 1980s aesthetic is being resurrected by artificial‑intelligence tools, veteran Bollywood star Anita Raaj is quick to point out that the technology can only scratch the surface of what made that era truly special. Raaj, who starred in classics such as Prem Geet (1981) and Naukar Biwi Ka (1983), says that while AI can replicate the visual hallmarks of the decade—big hair, bold makeup, and a glamorous look—it falls short of capturing the genuine energy and spontaneity that defined 80s film sets.
“It makes me smile to see a generation that wasn’t even around in the ’80s getting excited about the whole aesthetic,” Raaj told reporters. “That wasn’t a costume or a trend then; it was simply our world.” She recalls how, during her time on set, the excitement over costumes and the individuality each actor brought to their appearance created a palpable atmosphere that AI cannot emulate.
Raaj notes that the technology gets the outer appearance right—large hairstyles, striking makeup, and a glamorous Bollywood vibe—but it cannot recreate the feeling of that time. She emphasizes the importance of the spontaneous joy that permeated the era, stating that people back then “were not afraid to dress up,” and that there was a genuine pleasure in embracing glamour without the fear of looking too over the top.
While AI can produce the visual elements of the 1980s, Raaj believes that nostalgia and the authentic spirit of the decade remain irreplaceable. The actress’s reflections highlight the difference between a curated aesthetic and the lived experience that made the 80s unforgettable for those who lived through it.
