Many Americans are unfamiliar with Bollywood. The word may evoke images of brilliant colors, physics defying stunts, over dramatic acting, and upbeat dance sequences which are the ingredients to a typical Bollywood film. This is not to say that the recipe is representative of every movie churned by the world's largest film industry. Underneath the glamour of Bollywood lies quite a few jewels which serve as a testament to talent in acting, direction, production, storytelling, and choreography. The experience of watching a Bollywood Movie is unique in that it transcends cultures and presents a perspective distinct from the ones found in Hollywood. So, without further ado, here are some must-see Bollywood movies for the amateur viewer.
1. 3 Idiots
3 Idiots is arguably one of the most successful critically acclaimed comedy-drama Bollywood film has produced in the last decade. The coming-of-age film struck well with the Indian Audience and since then has conquered the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. It follows three engineering college students and their struggles in a highly competitive, hostile environment. The film presents an impressive social commentary on the Indian education system under the guise of an equally fantastic approach to comedy. If you're looking for some fun, look no further than this witty tale which has incapacitated people to the screens for the past seven years.
2. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Another Coming-of-Age Film, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara offers a fresh outlook at life. With the title literally translated to "You Won't get this life again", the movie details three close friends embarking on a road trip in Spain in exchange of a bachelor's party. The friends all come from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds - one is the son of a real estate mogul, one a financial broker and workaholic, and another an artist. The trip forces each one of them to face their fears and transform their lives in very surprising ways. The incredible casting including Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Hrithik Roshan, Kalki Koechlin, and Katrina Kaif ensures that this movie is by all means entertaining. A combination of comedy, romance, drama, and adventure makes the two and a half hours worth while.
3. My Name Is Khan
In backdrop of increased Islamophobia and racial profiling in the United States, a mildly autistic Muslim finds himself to cope with new difficulties. Arguably one of Karan Johar's finest works, it stars Shahrukh Khan, India's largest movie star. In an epic drama and masterpiece of storytelling, this movie is a must-see for all.
4. Airlift
Airlift is a war thriller based on a true story of a wealthy Indian businessman in Kuwait during Iraq's invasion. The movie garnered immense critical acclaim for its accurate historical depictions and solid performance. This film is highly recommended to those interested in history. Starring Akshay Kumar, the movie succeeds in engrossing all viewers to the year 1990.
5. A Wednesday
The movie begins with a Police Commissioner's account of the single worst day in his life-- A Wednesday. A phone call to the police headquarters orders the police to release 4 terrorists from prison or suffer the wrath-- 4 random bombs to be detonated throughout the city. The high paced thriller is bound to captivate anyone and was remade in Hollywood into A Common Man starring Ben Kingsley. From plot twists and a continuous mystery, this movie should be a priority in your list of movies.
