In today’s weekend blog, I am back on Bollywood.
The cinematic world is full of surprises, and Bollywood seems to excel at pulling the rug from under our feet. There is nothing quite like randomly stumbling upon a movie, with no expectations, only to be blown away by its excellence. It is a healthy sensation as a moviegoer and the perfect antidote to the overhyped A-lister movies that fall short of their promises. Given below a list of such movies of recent times that you will sit up and take notice. These gems are unsung performers of Bollywood that deserve more recognition.
1 Qarib Qarib Single
It is a 2017 rom-com starring the late Irrfan Khan and Parvathy Thiruvothu. It is an entertaining and witty take on modern-day dating that explores the complexities of finding love in the digital age. The chemistry between the leading pair is electric, and the film’s music adds to its charm.
It is available on Netflix.
2 Uunchai
It is heart warming tale about three elderly friends (Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher and Boman Irani) who embark on a journey to Mount Everest Base Camp to fulfill the final request of their late friend (Danny). Along the way, they are joined by Mala, Danny’s long last love, who laments not fighting for their love. Parineeti Chopra plays their guide for this journey. What begins as simple excursion becomes psychological, emotional, and spiritual adventure as they find the true meaning of freedom.
It is available on Zee 5.
3 Dasvi
It is a political satire that follows the story of a 10th-grade drop out who becomes politician. How he clears his 10th grade exam while in jail is the main plot of the story. The film’s dialogue and performances by the cast, especially Abhishek Bachchan, and he is able supported by Yami Gautam and Nimrit Kaur, making it a hilarious and insightful commentary on Indian politics.
It is available on Netflix and Jio Cinema.
4 Raat Akeli Hai
It is a gripping murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. The direction and performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte, and ensemble cast, make it a must watch for fans of the genre.
It is available on Netflix and Jio Cinema.
5 Badla
It is a suspense thriller that revolves around a woman accused of murder. The direction, screenplay and performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu make it a gripping and intense watch.
It is available on Netflix.
6 Photograph
It is a heartwarming film that explores the theme of love and companionship. The direction, cinematography, and performances by lead actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sanya Malhotra make abeautiful and memorable watch.
It is available on Amazon Prime Video.
7 Love Sonia
It is a hard-hitting film that exposes the dark world of human trafficking. The direction and performances by the cast, particularly Mrunal Thakur and Richa Chadha, make it a powerful and gut-wrenching watch.
It is available on Amazon Prime Video.
8 Sharmaji Namkeen
It is a posthumous release featuring late Rishi Kapoor, in some portion Paresh Rawal is shown as Sharmaji as Rishi Kapoor could not complete the film. The film explores the themes of ageing and regret and it is heartwarming and emotional watch.
It is available on Amazon Prime Video.
9 Meri Pyari Bindu
It is a coming-of-age love story that subverts Bollywood’s traditional happy endings. It is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, chronicling the lives of Abhimanyu Roy ( Ayushman Khurrana) and Bindu (Parineeti Chopra), childhood sweethearts who meet as neighbours. The film captures the essence of relationships, and the music adds a sense of melancholy to the story.
It is available on Amazon Prime Video.
Waiting for your feedback o this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
29th November 2024