Bollywood Movies For The Untrained Eye

As someone who feels well-versed enough in the subject of Bollywood, I felt that with the increased publicity this movie industry has been getting in the past few years, an introduction on what "Bollywood" is and the best movies anyone should watch is probably in my (and hopefully your) best interest. So without further ado, let's begin!

1. What IS "Bollywood"?

Bollywood is the name of the multi-million dollar movie industry located in (formerly known as Bombay) Mumbai, India.

2. Who do you know from the Industry?

Familiar faces that have appeared in Hollywood from this film industry that you probably recognize are:

Priyanka Chopra

The face of the her new abcFamily tv show Quantico, and known for her single, Exotic (feat. Pitbull), Chopra is also the winner of the Miss World Pageant in 2000.

Irrfan Khan

Irrfan Khan has been seen more recently in a few of the largest grossing movies in the past few years including "Life of Pi," "Spiderman," and "Jurassic World."

Deepika Padukone

One of Bollywood's number one starlets currently, Deepika has an upcoming movie "xXx: The Return of Xander Cage," with Vin Diesel.

Aishwarya Rai

Winner of the Miss World Pageant in 1994, Aishwarya Rai has starred in "Pink Panther 2" and "Bride and Prejudice."

Still not convinced? Majority of the actors are former models, so if you still need a little push towards watching a movie or two, just look at a few of these (you're welcome):

Siddharth Malhotra

Varun Dhawan

Alia Bhatt

Sonam Kapoor

Ooooooo.. Bollywood sounds interesting! What if I want to watch a movie?

First of all, fair warning: Bollywood movies tend to have major beat-bumping tunes to which they break out in song to, sometimes in the most serious scenes. Probably what makes them that much more fun to watch, but you have been warned.

3. Suggested movie list of all time:

"Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" (2013)

A movie of the development of a relationship over a time period, two classmates from high school bump into each other one break that changes their lives forever. Also, probably one of the few movies with an addicting playlist. Would recommend! Watch it here!

"Student of The Year" (2012)

Future rockstar, self-obsessed girlfriend, the new guy in school, and one trophy? This movie revolves around three college kids, and what ensues between the three of them that makes their graduating year one to remember. Though the trailer doesn't have subtitles, it is definitely one you should watch!! Watch it here.

"Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" (2011)

Three best friends reunite for one last bachelor trip before one friend (Kabir) gets married. A story based on growth and development, each friend overcomes his own fear and discovers things about themselves they wouldn't have before. Probably the ultimate bro trip of the decade. Watch it here!!

"Mujhse Shaadi Karogi" (2004)

Sameer's love for the girl next door seems to keep getting blocked over and over again by his own bad luck, and just gets worse when his new roommate moves in with him. Will he ever get a break through?? Definitely a comedy from over a decade ago, this movie's a fan favorite for sure. Watch it here!

"Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" (1998)

Rahul and Anjali are best friends. That is, until Pooja joins the school. One of the best movies of all time, this movie is a classic that probably everyone in our generation has watched over 10 times. If you don't watch any of the movies listed above, this one is a must-see. Watch it on YouTube here, or watch it on Netflix.

Now hopefully I've convinced you enough to at least look at these trailers and watch one of these movies. If you have, congrats! You are probably more familiar with Bollywood movies and the industry than the average joe! It's always nice to break out in song every now and then.