• How to Watch Neon Genesis Evangelion In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Neon Genesis Evangelion In Order: A Streaming Guide

    Neon Genesis Evangelion is an anime classic from the 1990s, one that blends mecha robot action with coming-of-age arcs and profound concepts of religion, philosophy, and the very essence of life itself. While the original anime series lasted for a single season of 26 episodes, the franchise evolved to incorporate many films that can confuse the viewer in terms of narrative.

    If you are curious about where to start with Neon Genesis Evangelion, we have a streaming guide that will kickstart your journey into the surreal world of Hideaki Anno’s iconic anime.

    How to watch Neon Genesis Evangelion in order

    Beginners to the franchise can start by watching the original anime series which presents a complete story on its own. Evangelion: Death(true)2 serves as a skippable follow-up which is essentially an hour-long recap of the entire series.

    After finishing the anime, some viewers can also choose to watch the film The End of Evangelion which offers a different ending, replacing the anime’s final two episodes.

    Original series:

    • Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)

    • Evangelion: Death(true)2 (1998)

    • The End of Evangelion (1997)

    A decade later, a new Neon Genesis film series sought to retell the story of the entire anime with some additional subplots and characters. Titled the “Rebuild of Evangelion”, the four films in this series can be watched in the same order as their release date.

    Rebuild of Evangelion series:

    Regardless of which series you choose to watch first, the general premise remains the same. Set in a post-apocalyptic Japan plagued by gargantuan alien creatures called “Angels”, the humans set out to fight them in biomechanical mecha suits known as Evangelion. However, the anime is more than just a good vs evil saga as each suit requires a teenage pilot of sound mind.

    With protagonist Shinji Ikari and two other pilots in the forefront, the anime explores the mental and physical limits to which the trio is tested. Instead of just taking down their extraterrestrial enemies, Shinji and the others must also discover the very cause of human actions and confront their own deepest fears, making Neon Genesis Evangelion a more psychologically-motivated watch than other conventional anime series. This might appear like Gundam on the surface but this is not your average robots-fighting-aliens anime.

    Why does Neon Genesis Evangelion have multiple endings? 

    Despite boasting impressive animation and profound storytelling throughout, the budget for Neon Genesis Evangelion’s original anime ran out towards the final few episodes. This led the story to be wrapped up quicker than expected and viewers got a two-part finale that was filled with hallucinatory sequences and a mind-numbing open-ended conclusion.

    While many anime fans have gone on to appreciate the complex and abstract ending years later, initial responses were more mixed. To clear the air around the final two episodes, director Hideaki Anno later got involved in a theatrical release The End of Evangelion that sought to offer a clearer perspective on the ending.

    But continuing discussion and speculation on the ending of NGE led to a total reboot with four movies that formed the Rebuild the Evangelion series. Apart from fleshing out the anime arcs even further, the intent of the reboot movies was also to introduce the world of Evangelion to new fans at the time.

    Where can you stream Neon Genesis Evangelion in order?

    One can watch the original Neon Genesis Evangelion anime, Evangelion: Death(true)2, and The End of Evangelion on Netflix. All movies of Rebuild the Evangelion series can be watched on Amazon Prime Video.

  • How to Watch My Hero Academia In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch My Hero Academia In Order: A Streaming Guide

    Subverting shounen anime tropes and borrowing from Western superhero influences, My Hero Academia is often hailed as one of the best new anime since the 2010s. The anime follows teenager Izuku Midoriya as he finds his footing in the titular superheroing school, while taking down global threats under the guidance of his Superman-like mentor All-Might.

    If you are gearing up for a My Hero Academia binge, we’ve got you covered with the anime and movies in order along with a guide on where to stream them.

    How to watch My Hero Academia in order

    The anime series covers multiple arcs but sandwiched between these arcs are a few theatrical movies. You can watch all My Hero Academia movies in the same order as their release date but keep in mind which episodes to watch before.

    As the My Hero Academia movies function as standalone interludes, you can additionally watch the anime even without the movies.

    • My Hero Academia Seasons 1-2 (Episodes 1-38)

    • My Hero Academia: Two Heroes

    • My Hero Academia Seasons 3-4 (Episodes 39-88)

    • My Hero Academia the Movie 2: Heroes: Rising

    • My Hero Academia Season 5 (Episodes 89-113)

    • My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission

    • My Hero Academia Season 6 (Episodes 114-138)

    • My Hero Academia Season 7 

    • My Hero Academia: You're Next

    Each season covers Midoriya’s coming-of-age from a mild-mannered teenager to a full-blown superhero who explores his “Quirk” (MHA speak for superpowers). Throughout the series, the focus also lies on other superpowered classmates like the hand-explosion master Bakugou and Todoroki who can channel the dual forces of fire and ice.

    The first MHA movie was 2018’s My Hero Academia: Two Heroes that takes place between the end of season 2 (Final Exam arc) and the beginning of season 3 (Forest Training camp arc) with Midoriya and All-Might helping out one of the latter’s friends as Villains attack an artificially moving island.

    The next movie was 2019’s My Hero Academia the Movie 2: Heroes: Rising which yet again takes place on an island. Set in between Seasons 4 and 5, the movie found Midoriya and his classmates saving a group of islanders from the ominous Nine, the most powerful villain that the team encountered at the point.

    Heroes Rising gave way to Season 5 which was followed by another movie, the 2021 release My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission. The movie increased the stakes of the anime with Midoriya and the other Japanese heroes joining the global Pro-Heroes league to foil a terrorist conspiracy that can alter the entire world.

    Season 6 of the anime aired the next year and continued until 2023. The year 2024 will mark the release of Season 7 in May while a new movie titled My Hero Academia: You’re Next is slated for an August release.

    Where to watch My Hero Academia in order?

    The My Hero Academia anime series and its associated movies are all available to stream on Netflix.

  • How to Watch Every Iron Man Movie In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Every Iron Man Movie In Order: A Streaming Guide

    Kickstarting the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in 2008, Iron Man has endured as a modern superhero classic and spawned many more sequels and crossover movies. If you have been a fan of Robert Downey Jr’s timeless character, we’ve got you covered with a guide on where to stream all the Iron Man movies in order.

    How to watch the Iron Man movies in order

    The Iron Man movies can be watched in the same order as their release date.

    Jon Favreau’s Iron Man offers a straightforward origin story, tracing the evolution of “millionaire, playboy, genius” Tony Stark as a weapons dealer, a terrorist hostage, and later, an armored avenger.

    Iron Man 2 raises the stakes by throwing in villains like the vengeance-seeking Russian Whiplash and weapons industry competitor Justin Hammer. Also supporting Iron Man this time are SHIELD head honcho Nick Fury and the future Avenger: Black Widow.

    Iron Man 3 marked an emotional conclusion to the Iron Man trilogy, covering Stark’s post-traumatic stress after the events of The Avengers. While facing off against a global threat like Mandarin, Stark also encounters his own inner demons as he realises he’s not the hero who he once was.

    Where can you stream the Iron Man movies?

    You can’t watch the Iron Man movies on any OTT platforms in India but they are all available to rent on Google Play movies, YouTube movies, Amazon, Apple TV, and Tata Play.

    What’s the future of Iron Man movies?

    The MCU expands upon the Iron Man armors with the upcoming Disney series Ironheart. The 2024 release will focus on adolescent inventor RiRi Williams as she builds an armor from scratch, one that rivals Stark’s technology. Much like other Marvel Disney+ collaborations, Ironheart will be available to stream on Hotstar in India.

    Ironheart will eventually give way to a movie sequel Armor Wars. Not much is known about the plot but the title suggests inspirations from the comic of the same name. That means, we are bound to get many more armored Avengers!

    Are there any Iron Man TV shows to watch?

    While not connected to the Iron Man trilogy and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Iron Man has previously led two animated shows (both of which are standalone entries). The first is Iron Man from the 1990s, which you can watch today on Hotstar. Next in line is 2009’s 3D animated anime-inspired Iron Man: Armored Adventures that captures Stark in his younger years. You can watch the coming-of-age series on Netflix.

    Is there any Iron Man anime to watch?

    For the ones seeking more armored adventures, there’s also an Iron Man anime film titled Iron Man: Rise of Technovore. The direct-to-DVD film finds Iron Man framed by a technological terrorist as he attempts to clear his name. You can watch it for free on Jio Cinema.

  • How to Watch Every Captain America Movie and TV Show In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Every Captain America Movie and TV Show In Order: A Streaming Guide

    When Steve Rogers volunteered to be injected with a super-soldier serum in 1941 in an effort to fight the Nazis in WWII, he became Captain America – the very first hero of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This was only the beginning of the “first Avenger” and his crime-fighting adventures, and the Marvel hero is now the titular character of 4 MCU movies.

    If you are an ardent fan of Chris Evans’ shield-wielding Avenger, then we’ve got you covered with a streaming guide to all the Captain America movies and shows in order.

    How to watch the Captain America movies in order

    The chronological viewing order for the Captain America movies is the same sequence as their release order. His story begins in Captain America: The First Avenger, released in 2011. It features a mild-mannered Steve Rogers who transforms from a bullied army aspirant into a superpowered war hero. However, The First Avenger leads to a dramatic sacrifice that will change Captain America’s life forever.

    If this is your first time watching the Captain America movies, beware that there are spoilers for each movie below.

    After Captain America is frozen in ice for several decades, he next appears in the MCU ensemble epic The Avengers – taking place in the 21st century. After saving the world with his fellow avengers, The Winter Soldier presents Captain America with a moral dilemma when his best friend Bucky Barnes – aka the titular Winter Soldier – is resurrected and used as a brain-washed assassin.

    The Winter Soldier marked the MCU debut of directing duo Joe and Anthony Russo, who would go on to direct Captain America’s next movie, Civil War. The movie takes place after the events of Avengers: Age of Ultron, as the Marvel heroes are confronted with avoiding the collateral damage they previously caused. It features an ambitious team-up event that divides Earth’s mightiest heroes between Team Cap and Team Iron Man.

    Does the Captain America franchise include a TV show?

    Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Disney+’s original series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier continues the lore of Captain America. Uniting Captain America’s loyal ally Falcon with a reformed Bucky, the series paved the way for the next Captain America movie.

    Will there be a Captain America 4?

    Post-Endgame, a new Captain America movie with Sam Wilson as the protagonist has long been in the works. Titled Captain America: Brave New World and slated for a 2025 release, not much is known about the upcoming movie’s plot. But the casting details reveal that several characters from The Incredible Hulk will be returning like the Hulk’s romantic interest Betty Ross and nemesis The Leader. Even Indiana Jones actor Harrison Ford is slated to play General Ross aka Red Hulk!

    Discover where to watch every Captain America movie and TV show using our guide below

  • How to Watch the Death Note Franchise In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Death Note Franchise In Order: A Streaming Guide

    Having immersed many an Indian “weeb” into the anime world, Death Note endures as a cult classic more than a decade since its Japanese premiere in 2006. Having spawned numerous live-action adaptations and spin-offs, it can get a bit tricky to keep track of the Death Note franchise. We’ve got you covered with a definitive guide to watch all things Death Note in order and where to stream them.

    How to watch Death Note in order?

    The original 37-episode-long anime Death Note can be watched as a standalone installment on its own. The series revolves around the antiheroic exploits of Light Yagami, a youngster who comes across a life-changing notebook on which any name that he writes is destined to die. Accompanied by the shinigami (spirit) Ryuk, Light’s homicidal scribbling makes him cross paths with ominous hacker L, Yagami’s own lawman father, and the who’s who of the Japanese mafia.

    The Japanese live-action Death Note movies, however, can be watched in the same order as their release date. A web series Death Note: New Generation is also sandwiched in between the movies.

    The movies largely follow the same premise as the comics but L: Change The World acts as a standalone spinoff for the movie’s take on the character L. Death Note: New Generations was a three-episode long web series that took place directly from the events of Death Note 2: The Last Name and L: Change the World.

    In 2015, a Japanese live-action adaptation of Death Note was also broadcast, faithfully recreated from the original manga.

    Additionally, Netflix produced a 2017 Hollywood movie adaptation too, simply called Death Note. Despite boasting mainstream names like Nat Wolff, Willem Dafoe, and LaKeith Stanfield, the film was panned universally and the sequels that it teased in the end were all scraped off.

    Are there any future Death Note shows being made?

    Despite the disaster of Netflix’s 2017 Death Note movie, the streaming platform has commissioned Stranger Things showrunners The Duffer Brothers to conceive a new Death Note live-action TV series. The release date remains unknown for now.

    Where can you stream Death Note in order?

    The Death Note anime, live-action TV adaptation, and Hollywood adaptation are all available to watch on Netflix. The other live-action movies aren’t available to stream in India at the moment.

  • 10 Best Anime TV shows like Solo Leveling – Your Streaming Guide

    10 Best Anime TV shows like Solo Leveling – Your Streaming Guide

    Based on the Korean manwha (comic) of the same name, MAPPA Studios anime Solo Leveling broke out as the first major anime of 2024. If you are looking for similar anime series with underdog protagonists, a diverse world of monsters and monster hunters, and fast-paced action, we’ve got you covered with a streaming guide to anime TV shows just like Solo Leveling and where to stream them online. We'll also let you know if they are available to stream for free.

    Jujutsu Kaisen

    Just like Solo Leveling, Jujutsu Kaisen is a finely animated cult favourite by studio MAPPA. Subverting shounen anime tropes, JJK finds goofy protagonist Yuji Itadori navigating his way through a multitude of sorcerers warding off their curses. Much like Solo Leveling’s Sung Jin-Woo striving to find his identity among monster hunters, Itadori aims to rise to the top.

    Goblin Slayer

    Goblin Slayer is another visually dazzling recommendation, incorporating Japanese dark fantasy themes in a premise centered around the titular antihero. Killing every goblin in his vicinity, Goblin Slayer’s morality comes into question when he crosses paths with a young priestess.

    Chainsaw Man

    Chainsaw Man also deserves a spot on your watchlist if you hunger for Solo Leveling's adrenaline-fueled action sequences. Unabashedly bloody and raunchy, Chainsaw Man yet again proves why MAPPA is the most innovative studio in the anime world right now.

    Bleach

    If you prefer sword-wielding protagonists like the ones in Solo Leveling or just the humans-versus-monsters binary in anime, Bleach is an all-time classic. Replace monsters with spirits from another world and you have a compelling narrative in Bleach, one that has gone on to endure in many spin-off series and movies.

    Gintama

    Gintama is a genre mishmash that sticks the landing with its alternate take on samurai-era Japan, one where freelance samurai roam in the backdrop of retro-futuristic aliens. Much like Solo Leveling's monster hunters, the samurai of Gintama are not glamorised to be fearless heroes but rather humanized caricatures of warriors.

    The Daily Life of the Immortal King

    The Daily Life of the Immortal King is a fantasy anime that reminds us that beyond other worldly challenges, the real Herculean task can be facing the real world itself. So, in this immersive anime, a near-invincible “cultivation genius capable of achieving new realms” faces the perils of… high school.

    Sword Art Online

    Sword Art Online is another binge-worthy watch for Solo Leveling fans, given its worldbuilding scope. The action begins in a vast multiplayer role-playing game, one in which many gamers are trapped in their avatars. It’s up to one lonely drifter in the game to find a way out.

    Mashle

    Mashle, one of the most popular anime series in recent years, is another anime that handles fantasy worlds with adolescent humour in the same vein as Solo Leveling. Anime fans usually describe the coming-of-age magic-themed anime as “Saitama (One Punch Man) meets Harry Potter”. Expect a Hogwarts-like magic academy with endless imagination.

    Frieren

    Frieren, a more recent addition to the fantasy anime lists, has immediately spawned a cult fandom despite being based on a relatively niche manga. Solo Leveling might capture the build-up to a storm but Frieren covers the calm “after” the storm. An elf warrior and compatriots must face the aftermath of a demon war, realising that some quests remain incomplete even after the battle has been won.

    My Hero Academia

    A trendsetting shounen anime with superhero influences, My Hero Academia is an anime that even non-anime fans can get into quite easily. Set within a superhero school training the next generation of heroes, MHA follows the journey of one Izuku Midoriya as he gives it all to become the protector of his generation, the same conviction that makes an inferior monster hunter like Sung Jin-Woo test his limits in Solo Leveling.

    Where can I watch anime TV shows similar to Solo Leveling?

    Below you can find streaming information for the 10 best anime TV shows that are similar to Solo Leveling. This includes the latest information on where to stream them on services such as Netflix, Crunchyroll and Prime Video. We'll also let you know if you can legally watch them for free online.

  • 20 Best Vikrant Movies And TV Shows And Where To Watch Them

    20 Best Vikrant Movies And TV Shows And Where To Watch Them

    Vikrant Massey became a TV heartthrob in the 2010s but he was meant for bigger things as he set out to carve his own niche in Bollywood. From dramas like A Death in the Gunj and 12th Fail to streaming hits like Mirzapur and Criminal Justice, Massey is on his way to become a household name and we’ve curated his best movies and TV shows to watch in this streaming guide.

    What are Vikrant Massey’s essential movies to watch?

    While Massey initially began his Bollywood stint with supporting roles, his performances and career choices have mostly been top-tier. So, the period romance Lootera and the dysfunctional family comedy Dil Dhadakne Do might only feature Massey in limited capacities but have endured as modern Bollywood classics.

    Massey’s supporting roles can also be found in acclaimed arthouse picks and social message dramas like his portrayals of supportive romantics in the feminist satire Lipstick Under My Burkha and the biopic of acid attack survivor-turned-activist Laxmi Agarwal in Chhapaak. On the flipside, he has also played more morally grey and sly characters in the tragicomedy Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi and the social drama Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare.

    As a lead actor, Massey’s pursuits include genre-bending experiments like the space comedy Cargo and Konkana Sen’s stellar directorial debut A Death in the Gunj. The latter proved to be one of his breakout roles with Massey playing a mentally fragile student finding his identity amidst a chaotic Anglo-Indian family in the 1970s.

    Massey’s most popular lead role would be that of the dreamy-eyed IAS exam aspirant Manoj Kumar in 12th Fail, a performance that won him a Filmfare Award for Best Actor (Critics’).

    Where to get started with Vikrant Massey’s TV shows

    An outsider who made his way into the Hindi film industry after a slew of auditions, Vikrant Massey wasn’t an overnight success. So, to get into his filmography, it’s worth revisiting some of the TV shows that earned him early fame.

    Balika Vadhu, the Colors TV original, is a case in point. The social drama explored the perils of child marriage in Rajasthan with Massey appearing later in the series as one of  the supporting characters’ romantic interest Shyam Singh.

    Another social drama that Massey dabbled in later was Qubool Hai, the Zee production that attempted to take on social stigmas and patriarchy within a conservative Muslim family. But with Massey giving up his TV career to try his hands at acting in films, eventually gave way to bigger and better shows on streaming platforms.

    A quintessential watch will be the first season of Amazon Prime Video’s trendsetting gangster saga Mirzapur. Revolving around the blood-stained politics and crime of the titular Uttar Pradesh town, Mirzapur found Massey playing Vinay "Bablu" Pandit, a promising student who is pushed to a criminal conspiracy along with his hot-headed brother Guddu (Ali Fazl).

    Over the years, Massey’s streaming titles included an emotional portrayal of a falsely-accused jail inmate in the first season of Criminal Justice, a Hotstar original remake of the acclaimed HBO crime drama The Night Of, and a guest appearance as yet another wholesome romantic Nawab Khan in the Prime Video hit Made In Heaven.

    Why is 12th Fail Vikrant Massey’s best movie to watch?

    Subtle emotional cues, acting with his eyes, and bringing an inspirational rags-to-riches story to life. What’s not to love about the underdog saga 12th Fail? Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s direction provided ample ground for Massey to shine with his subtle brand of emotionality.

    Where can you stream Vikrant Massey’s movies and TV shows?

    Massey’s older TV work can be found on streaming platforms like Jio Cinema and ZEE5 while most of his later movies and shows are also originals on Netflix, Prime Video, and Hotstar.

  • 30 Best Aishwarya Rai Movies and Where to Watch Them

    30 Best Aishwarya Rai Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Miss World titleholder in 1994. Bollywood actress with critically acclaimed Tamil works and popular Hollywood titles on the side. There is a lot that Aishwarya Rai has achieved in her life, establishing her as one of India’s most prominent actresses and models. If you are a diehard Aishwarya Rai fan or new to her works, we have got you covered with a definitive streaming guide to her filmography through the years.

    From Iruvar to Jodhaa Akbar - How to get started with Aishwarya Rai’s filmography?

    A talented and versatile star like Aishwarya Rai is bound to have a diverse track record, offering both mainstream blockbusters and more niche critically-acclaimed picks. Despite starting out as a model, Rai’s Miss World win in 1994 was followed by a surprisingly profound acting debut in auteur Mani Ratnam’s political epic Iruvar.

    However, it was the 1998 Tamil romantic drama Jeans that marked her first commercial hit, also holding the record for being India’s most expensive film at the time. Rai eventually moved to Bollywood, heralding her arrival with two classic romantic dramas directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali: Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas.

    Both movies were favoured by critics and audiences alike, earning Rai two Filmfare Awards for Best Actress. Be it Nandini Darbar in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Paro in Devdas, both roles had her channeling tragically dramatic energy as women caught in between increasingly passionate romances disapproved of by society.

    Finding mainstream success, Rai also ventured into other languages such as the Bengali period romance Chokher Bali (in which she played the part of a widow striving for sexual liberation). She would later reunite with her Chokher Bali director Rituparno Ghosh to play an unhappy wife in the Hindi-drama Raincoat, another critically acclaimed highlight.

    Iruvar’s Mani Ratnam is also a recurring collaborator with Rai having acted in the rags-to-riches drama Guru and the Ramayana-inspired thriller Raavan (both also starring her husband Abhishek Bachchan). Even after years of taking a step back from acting, Rai returned to the big screen as a scheming royal in Ratnam’s two part period saga Ponniyin Selvan.

    The Tamil historical epic Ponniyin Selvan wasn’t her first flirtation with the genre as she previously also drew raves for playing Rajput queen Jodhabai alongside Hrithik Roshan’s Mughal emperor Akbar in the ambitious historical epic Jodha Akbar. Alongside Roshan, Rai also starred in the heist thriller Dhoom 2 and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s tragic human drama Guzaarish.

    While Rai’s on-screen appearances have been more sporadic in the 2010s, the decade also witnessed some of her biggest commercial successes like the Rajinikanth-led sci-fi actioner Enthiran (Robot) and Karan Johar’s ensemble romance Ae Dil Hai Muskhil.

    Aishwarya Rai’s Hollywood movies to watch

    Starting with the British drama Provoked, Rai has also gone on to occasionally act overseas. While Provoked found her playing a woman who accidentally murders her husband, she later appeared as a charming criminologist in The Pink Panther 2, a clairvoyant seductress in The Mistress of Spices, and also starred in Bride and Prejudice, Gurinder Chadha’s Indian adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.

    Why is Iruvar Aishwarya Rai’s best movie to watch?

    Starring alongside Tamil character actor Prakash Raj and Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, Aishwarya Rai held her own in her debut film as an ambitious woman climbing up the political ladder. The movie, supposedly inspired by the lives of real-life Tamil Nadu politicians M Karunanidhi, MG Ramachandran, and Jayalalitha, succeeds at exploring the nuances of its morally grey leads and remains one of Mani Ratnam’s finest ventures to this day.

    Where can you stream Aishwarya Rai’s best movies?

    Aishwarya Rai’s immense popularity implies that most of her movies are available on popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hotstar, Eros Now, and Lionsgate Play. You can watch some of her Tamil movies on Aha and Sun NXT as well.

  • 30 Best Chiranjeevi Movies and Where to Watch Them

    30 Best Chiranjeevi Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Chiranjeevi, often hailed as the "Megastar" of Telugu cinema, boasts a prolific filmography spanning over four decades. If you are a newbie to the actor-politician’s film career or one of his diehard fans, we have got you covered with a definitive streaming guide to his best movies so that you can know what to watch and where to stream.

    From Indra to Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy: How to start with Chiranjeevi’s filmography?

    While primarily taking on action roles from his younger years to even now (with his son Ram Charan also excelling as an actor in his own right), Chiranjeevi has enjoyed a stellar commercial film career for years.

    To get into his massy action entertainers, Indra can be a good starting point. In Indra, Chiranjeevi mesmerizes as Indrasena Reddy, a powerful and righteous leader who battles against injustice and corruption. His commanding presence and intense portrayal of the character earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as a megastar of Telugu cinema.

    An older action classic from even before Indra is Tagore in which Chiranjeevi shines as Professor Tagore, a vigilante who fights against corruption. Khaidi, Stalin, Gang Leader, and Vijetha further demonstrate Chiranjeevi's prowess as an action hero, with each film featuring him in dynamic and memorable roles that showcase his physical prowess and on-screen charisma.

    Occasionally Chiranjeevi can strike an emotional chord with particularly nuanced roles that rely more on his dramatic prowess than action star charisma. A case in point is Swayam Krushi that finds him playing a compassionate cobbler striving to provide education to underprivileged children. His sensitive portrayal of the empathetic protagonist resonated deeply with audiences, highlighting his ability to evoke empathy and emotion on screen.

    Some of his best genre detours include the fantasy comedy Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari and the medical comedy Shankar Dada MBBS. While the former sees Chiranjeevi as Raju, a reincarnated prince who battles against evil forces, the latter was a remake of the Bollywood cult comedy Munnabhai MBBS with Chiranjeevi playing a local goon who changes his ways after joining medical school.

    While Chiranjeevi’s recent work has often polarized critics and reviews, a notable highlight from this later stage has been the historical action epic Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy. Set a decade before the trailblazing Revolt of 1857, the biopic honours the freedom fighter Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy who led his forces against the tyrannical East India Company. The movie also found him sharing screen space with other Indian A-listers like Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan and Tamil character actor Vijay Sethupathi.

    Why is Rudra Veena Chiranjeevi’s best movie to watch?

    Perhaps his most socially impactful movie, Rudra Veena featured Chiranjeevi in a socially conscious role as Shiva Kesava, a singer who confronts caste discrimination. His nuanced performance in this critically acclaimed film highlights his versatility, earning him accolades for his portrayal of the complex protagonist. Rudra Veena bears testimony to the fact that with the right script, Chiranjeevi can be more than just a mainstream action hero.

    Where can you stream Chiranjeevi’s best movies?

    You can watch most of Chiranjeevi’s older movies on Amazon Prime Video, Aha, and Eros Now. As for his newer titles, you can try either Prime Video or Netflix. Jio Cinema and ZEE5 also offer some options that are free to watch, such as Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari and Tagore.

  • 20 Best Karthi Movies and Where to Watch Them

    20 Best Karthi Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Karthi is a Tamil superstar with a slight edge to him as instead of sticking to formulaic action hero tropes, the Ponniyian Selvan and Kaithi actor evokes a charismatic energy that is unique only to him. If you were wondering where to start with Karthi’s filmography, we’ve got you covered with the best Karthi movies along with a handy guide to stream them.

    From Paruthiveeran to Madras: How to get started with Kaithi’s movies?

    Before he became a three-time Filmfare Award winner, Karthi was born in a family of film professionals. Not only is his father veteran actor Sivakumar but his older brother is Suriya, the Tamil megastar behind hits like Singham and Jai Bheem.

    Karthi made a stellar acting debut as the titular character in the 2007 social drama Paruthiveeran. Karthi and Priyamani shone in their performances as two lovers who defy caste boundaries and societal norms in a village near Madurai. Karthi earned his first Filmfare for Best Actor and never looked back from acting.

    To witness a more commercial side of Karthi, you can always watch his popular titles like the action-romance Paiyaa (starring opposite Tamannah Bhatia), and Siruthai (a remake of SS Rajamouli’s Telugu actioner Vikramarkudu).

    Some of his action films that have subverted the massy action formula in favour of more passionate personal arcs and social themes include Naan Mahaan Alla and Madras. The former found Karthi playing an unemployed slacker who picks up arms to protect his father from a ruthless gang. As for Madras, Pa. Ranjith’s acclaimed political action drama starred him and Kalaiyarasan as two rival political party workers who go against each other’s throats to lay a claim over a wall.

    Another great example of his introspective brand of action hero is Theeran Adhigaram Ondru, a cop drama that found Karthi playing a hard nosed man of the law waging a crusade against a band of dacoits along a highway. However, instead of serving as a familiar good-vs-evil drama, Karthi’s career-defining performance explores the morally gray lines between justice and vigilantism.

    Occasionally, Karthi can venture into comical territory such as the tearjerker slice-of-life drama Oopiri in which he played a caretaker to a reclusive wheelchair-bound rich man (played by Nagarjuna). The Tamil remake of the French cult favourite The Intouchables, Oopiri was a good way for Karthi to break typecast.

    Then came more hits like the first film in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe: Kaithi. Playing a recently-released prisoner who must fight again to protect his daughter, Kaithi was a critical and commercial success and paved the way for a shared universe for other action thrillers by director Lokesh Kanagaraj like Vikram and Leo.

    Fresh off the success of Kaithi, Karthi went on to reunite with his old mentor Mani Ratnam as one of the leads in Ratnam’s Chola-era two-part epic Ponniyin Selvan. Based on the classic Tamil novel of the same name, both Ponniyin Selvan movies were set in ancient India during the reign of the Chola dynasty. Revolving around a political conspiracy to remove the Cholas from power, the movies found Karthi playing Vanthiyathevan, a local chieftain loyal to the throne.

    Why is Madras Karthi’s best movie to watch?

    Madras marked a new era for Karthi as critics began taking him more seriously in terms of his creative choices, dialogue delivery, and dramatic range. No longer was he just beating up bad guys. This time around, he was expressing urban angst of a tumultuous period and taking on gritty characters written by socially-relevant filmmakers like Ranjith.

    Where can you stream Karthi’s best movies?

    You can watch Karthi’s movies on mainstream OTT platforms like Netflix and Prime Video along with South Indian-specific services like Sun NXT, Aha, and Manorama Max.

  • 10 Best Anees Bazmee Movies and Where to Stream Them

    10 Best Anees Bazmee Movies and Where to Stream Them

    Aneez Bazmee is a heavyweight director when it comes to mainstream Bollywood comedies, thanks to the quintessential 2000s-era over-the-top theatrics of Welcome, No Entry, and Singh Is Kinng. Here’s a definitive ranking of the best Anees Bazmee films and a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Anees Bazmee’s filmography?

    Most of Aneez Bazmee’s popular credits like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Sandwich, and Welcome among others, are available to stream on popular OTT services like Netflix, Prime Video, and ZEE5. Sony LIV, Lionsgate Play, and Eros Now are also good options to stream the rest of his filmography while Ready can be rented on YouTube movies and Google Play Store.

    You can also watch Welcome and its sequel Welcome Back for free on Jio Cinema, ZEE5, and Shemaroo.

    Once you’ve sorted your Anees Bazmee watchlist, look at the comedy director’s track record over the years.

    Early Start with Thrillers like Deewangee

    Despite making a career out of directing comedies, Bazmee initially started out with thrillers. His directorial debut was the Ajay Devgn-led action thriller Hulchul which failed to make much of a mark. A warmer reception was received by his sophomore thriller Deewangee, a Hindi remake of the Richard Gere and Edward Norton-starrer Primal Fear.

    Comedy Breakout with No Entry and Welcome

    Following Deewangee, Bazmee tried to tickle his audience’s funny bone and stuck to it for the decades to come. His first comedy was No Entry, a commercial and critical success with a stellar ensemble led by frequent collaborators Anil Kapoor and Salman Khan. The movie, known today for its catchy songs and quotable one-liners, is a raunchy comedy revolving around a web of lies about cheating husbands and their womanizing friends.

    Similar themes were echoed in his next movie Sandwich, a comedy starring Govinda as a man caught between his two wives. The film underperformed at the box office and Bazmee failed to replicate the No Entry success. However, in 2007, his fate turned in his favour again with Welcome.

    The 2007 comedy of errors starred Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif as a couple in love caught within the drama around two bumbling gangster brothers (played to perfection by Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar). Welcome was an instant hit and remains a cult comedy till today.

    Sequel experiments with Welcome Back and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2

    Following Welcome, Bazmee continued exploring his recurring themes of failed marriages, infidelities, and romances interrupted by snobby families with movies like No Problem, Thank You, Mubarakan, and Ready. But while honing his familiar tropes, Bazmee also took time to work on sequels to iconic comedies. One was Welcome Back, a gangster comedy that served as a direct sequel to his own Welcome (sans Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif this time).

    The other was the supernatural comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. The latter initially aroused criticism for Kartik Aaryan starred as the lead instead of the preceding movie’s Akshay Kumar. But upon release, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 subverted audience expectations and earned Bazmee his first-ever Filmfare nomination for Best Director.

    Why is Welcome Anees Bazmee’s best movie?

    With tongue-in-cheek dialogues immortalised in memes and slapstick-mannered characters like Dr Ghungroo and Majnu Bhai that still dominate Indian pop culture, Welcome is arguably Anees Bazmee’s career-best film. Welcome is loud and silly with a sense of self-awareness, aging only better after more than a decade since its release. For many a Bollywood comedy fan, Welcome continues to be their comfort watch.

  • How to watch Baki in Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to watch Baki in Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    When it comes to fighting anime, Baki is an all-time classic. If you too wish to immerse yourself in the over-the-top, surrealist violence of the fighting ring, we’ve got you covered with a guide to stream all the Baki anime shows in order. The chronology can be a bit confusing but “grapple on”.

    How to watch the Baki anime in order

    There are three Baki anime series, all of which can be watched in the same order as their release date.

    The first-ever Baki anime was Baki: The Grappler that premiered in 2001 and went on for two seasons. It follows the story of a young martial artist named Baki Hanma as he seeks to become the strongest fighter in the world.

    The premise revolves around a young martial artist named Baki Hanma, who is on a quest to become the strongest fighter in the world, following in the footsteps of his father, Yujiro Hanma, who is known as the strongest creature on Earth. Baki faces various opponents throughout the series, each with their unique fighting styles and backgrounds, as he participates in underground fighting tournaments and challenges other renowned martial artists.

    A few years later, Netflix premiered a revival series called Baki in 2018. The Netflix original took from the narrative of the 2000s series but can be watched even without any prior knowledge of the franchise as it takes on a different arc from the Baki manga.

    This adaptation focuses on the same premise as the original manga but covers different story arcs. The anime follows Baki Hanma as he trains intensely to surpass his father and become the strongest martial artist in the world. He encounters numerous formidable opponents along the way, including convicts from death row who seek to challenge him

    The three seasons of 2018’s Baki gave way to a direct sequel Baki Hanma. Set shortly after the events of the previous "Baki" series, Baki in Baki Hanma finds himself confronted by a new wave of powerful opponents, including legendary fighters and martial arts masters from around the globe. One of them is the caveman Pickle (yes, an actual caveman because expect the unexpected with Baki).

    Where can you stream the Baki anime in order?

    While Baki: The Grappler is unfortunately not available to stream anywhere in India at the moment, both other series (Baki and Baki Hanma) are available to watch on Netflix.

  • How to Watch The Avengers Movies In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch The Avengers Movies In Order: A Streaming Guide

    The World’s Greatest Heroes have helmed some of the world’s highest-grossing movies. If you wish to binge on all the Avengers movies within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), we have got you covered with a streaming guide to watch them all in order. Avengers Assemble!

    How to watch the Avengers movies in order

    Much like most of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies and TV shows, the Avengers movies can be fortunately watched in the same order as their release date.

    The first Avengers movie was the MCU’s first ensemble-driven adventure and featured six Avengers uniting to fight against the Asgardian demigod Loki’s forces. In Age of Ultron, the teamcount was increased with new additions like siblings Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch as they take down the titular villain Ultron, the sentient Artificial Intelligence created by occasional team leader Tony Stark (Iron Man).

    The last two Avengers movies were monumental chapters in the franchise as they concluded Marvel’s Infinity Saga with a multitude of Avengers teaming up across different dimensions and timelines to prevent the Mad Titan Thanos from wielding the universe-altering Infinity Gauntlet.

    While the first two Avengers movies can still be watched as standalone movies with some background context, Infinity War and Endgame are directly interconnected with the former ending on an open-ended conclusion that the latter resolved a year later.

    Will there be any more Avengers movies in the future?

    While Endgame marked the retirement of Captain America and Iron Man, the legacy of Avengers carries on with the other members and many new recruits in future MCU chapters. These threads will hopefully be joined together for another Thanos-like universal threat in Avengers: 5 and Avengers: Secret Wars. Both movies are expected to release subsequently in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

    Are there any Avengers TV series to stream?

    Apart from the MCU movies, Disney and Marvel have also had a few Avengers animated series like The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and Marvel’s Avengers, both of which are available to stream on Hotstar.

    Where can you watch the Avengers movies in order?

    All the Avengers movies (except Avengers: Age of Ultron) are available to watch in 4K on Hotstar. Avengers: Age of Ultron and the other three big-budget superhero movies are also available to rent on Google Play Movies, YouTube, Amazon, Apple TV, and Tata Play.

  • How to Watch Gintama In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Gintama In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    Gintama is a cult favourite among fans of samurai anime, serving as a comedic yet action-packed tale following eccentric swordfighters in an alternate-history Edo-era Tokyo that is somehow conquered by aliens. But with anime filled with hundreds of episodes and add-on movies, watching Gintama can be a Herculean task.

    If you wish to start your Gintama journey, we’ve got you covered with a complete streaming guide to watch the Gintama anime and movies in order.

    How to watch Gintama in order

    The Ginatama franchise includes several anime seasons scattered with a few movies and OVAs (Original Video Animations) in between. The series can be watched in the same order as their release date although the movies should be watched in the middle of a few episodes.

    Here’s the entire rundown. 

    • Gintama episodes 1 - 57

    • Gintama: The Movie (this serves as a remake of episodes 58 - 61)

    • Gintama episodes 62 - 201

    • Gintama’ episodes 1 - 51

    • Gintama’ Enchousen episodes 1 - 53

    • Gintama: The Movie: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya

    • Gintama° episodes 1 - 51

    • Gintama. episodes 1 - 12

    • Gintama.: Slip Arc episodes 1 - 13

    • Gintama.: Silver Soul Arc 1 - 26

    • Gintama: The Semi-Final

    • Gintama: The Final

    Additionally, there are two live-action film adaptations of Ginatma that you can also watch in the same order of their release date.

    Begin your journey into the world of Gintama by watching the anime series. The main series consists of several seasons, totaling over 350 episodes. This is where you'll be introduced to the main samurai characters, including Gintoki Sakata, Shinpachi Shimura, Kagura, and others, as they navigate through hilarious and action-packed adventures in an alternate-history of Japan.

    After getting a feel for the Gintama universe through the anime series, dive into the first movie, simply titled Gintama: The Movie. This movie adapts the popular Benizakura Arc from the anime and adds extra depth and action to the story. As this movie touches upon the arc from episodes 58-61, you can directly resume the Ginatama anime from episode 62 after it.

    After episode 201, Gintama’s other seasons take new titles like Ginatama’, Gintama° and Ginatama., increasing Gintama’s total season count to 12. The first season is fairly straightforward with 201 episodes; it’s the other seasons that take on future arcs but with a lesser episode count.

    After Gintama: Enchousen (season 6), you can watch the movie, Gintama: The Movie: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya. This one also serves as the direct sequel to the aforementioned Gintama: The Movie. Once done, resume the anime with Ginatma° (season 7).

    Once you are on season 11 (Silver Soul Arc 2), watch Gintama: The Semi-Final (2021). This two-episode special serves as a prequel to the final movie and delves into the backstory of Gintoki and his friends, shedding light on pivotal events that shaped their lives.

    Finally, watch Gintama: The Very Final (2021) to conclude your Gintama journey with the final movie, which provides a satisfying conclusion to the series' overarching storylines while delivering epic battles and heartfelt moments.

    Where can you stream Gintama in order?

    The first 201 episodes of Gintama are available to watch on Crunchyroll. The rest of the anime arcs like Ginatama Enchousen and Ginatama’ aren’t available to stream at the moment but will arrive soon on Crunchyroll. You can also watch the 2021 series finale Gintama: The Very Final on Crunchyroll.

  • How to watch The Terminator Movies in Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to watch The Terminator Movies in Order: A Streaming Guide

    “I’ll be back.” Arnold Schwarzenegger made a career out of three iconic words over multiple decades as a red-eyed cybernetic robot in the Terminator franchise. If you wish to binge watch all the Terminator movies in order, we have got you covered with a guide to stream all the post-apocalyptic, time-traveling adventures.

    How to watch the Terminator movies in order

    Chronology is quite a puzzling issue when it comes to the Terminator movies. While the first three movies can be watched in the same order as their release date, matters get complicated with all the movies that came out in the 2010s as these included indirect follow-ups, spiritual sequels, and even a reboot of the entire franchise.

    It’s for this reason the Terminator movies can be watched in three different orders.

    Let’s get started with the classic pattern of watching them.

    Along with the aforementioned chronological timeline, Terminator: Genisys (2015) acts as a reboot of the franchise acting as a parallel story alongside the original Terminator. So, you can watch it as a standalone movie.

    Then comes Terminator: Dark Fate that ignores all events of other 2000s and 2010s movies and serves as a direct sequel to Terminator 2: Judgment Day. This gives us a new order to watch them.

    In the first and classic order of to watch The Terminator franchise, the first movie directed by James Cameron starts off with Sarah Connor being hunted down by a murderous robot from the future (the titular Terminator played by Arnold Schwarzenegger). Another time-traveler in this narrative is Kyle Reese, who would have a child with Sarah named John Connor, the leader of the future resistance against the robots engineered by the Artificial Intelligence network Skynet.

    While Reese and the antagonistic T-800 Terminator die in the first film, Cameron’s sophomore entry to the franchise finds Sarah Connor and her teenage son John fighting against yet another robot from the future (the T-1000). Schwarzenegger returns as another T-800 (but one with good intentions) as the epic continues with an explosive, interstate road trip.

    Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines revolved around a grown-up John Connor in 2004. Next up is Terminator: Salvation that was set much further in the future with Connor finally living up to his fate and leading the resistance.

    But when Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) brought back Sarah Connor into the timeline and shockingly killed off Terminator 2’s adolescent John Connor early on, the 2019 movie served as a direct sequel to Terminator 2 and ignored all the events of other entries in the franchise.

    Where can you stream the Terminator movies?

    The first movie is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video while you can watch Terminator 2: Judgment Day for free on Jio Cinema (although with ads in between). Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines and Terminator: Salvation are both available on Sony LIV while Terminator: Genisys can be rented on Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play, and YouTube. Terminator: Dark Fate is similarly not available to stream but can be rented on Apple TV.

  • Every Kartik Subbaraj Movie Ranked and Where to Watch Them

    Every Kartik Subbaraj Movie Ranked and Where to Watch Them

    From the 2012 horror Pizza to the satirical Jigarthanda movies, Karthik Subbaraj has established himself as one of the freshest directors of Tamil cinema. We offer you a definitive ranking of every one of his directorial efforts, ranked from the most mediocre to the most acclaimed. And if you are wondering where to stream the director’s multi-genre efforts, we have you covered with a streaming guide.

    Where can you stream Karthik Subbaraj’s filmography?

    Sun NXT and Netflix are some of your best bets to stream Karthik Subbaraj movies. His collaboration with Dhanush Jigame Thandiram was exclusively a Netflix release while his Vikram-starrer Mahaan was a Prime Video release. You can also stream his Rajinikanth-led venture Petta for free on Jio Cinema.

    Pizza: Subbaraj’s breakout hit

    The movie that put Karthik Subbaraj on the map was his directorial debut Pizza. A low-budget horror starring Tamil character actor Vijay Sethupathi (who hadn’t achieved mainstream success by then), Pizza revolved around a pizza delivery man's chilling encounters with a paranormal phenomenon on a night shift gone wrong.

    The movie’s scares were fresh enough with some impeccable tension-building and Sethupathi’s convincing lead performance. More than a decade since its release and after several multi-lingual remakes, Pizza still remains a cult classic.

    The Jigarthanda franchise: Subbaraj’s love letters to cinema

    While Pizza marked Subbaraj’s creativity with limited budget, his 2014 gangster comedy Jigarthanda marked his stylistic flair for violence and satire. Echoing influences from his cinematic idol Qunetin Tarantino, Jigarthanda found a down-on-his-luck director collaborating with a rowdy gangster for an unexpected project. Immensely praised by critics and audiences, Jigarthanda wasn’t just a satire to pulpy crime dramas but a love letter to filmmaking itself.

    These themes were touched upon yet again in a different setting in 2023 with Subbaraj helming a spiritual sequel Jigarthanda DoubleX. The Jigarthanda franchise is a binge-worthy amalgamation of Tamil cinema tropes, deadpan humor, and nods to Subbaraj’s influences like the aforementioned Tarantino and Western legend Clint Eastwood.

    Mahaan, Petta, and more: Subbaraj and Tamil megastars

    Following the success of Pizza and Jigarthanda, Karik Subbaraj went on to collaborate with some of the biggest Tamil superstars albeit with mixed results. So, while his pandemic release Mahaan featured a career-defining performance from Vikram as an honest teacher-turned-liquor baron, Petta turned out to be one of industry titan Rajinikanth’s less successful projects in recent years.

    Additionally, his neo-noir crime comedy Jagame Thandiram succumbed to a style-over-substance approach despite a delightfully magnetic lead performance by Dhanush.

    Independent anthologies and a Netflix project: What else has Subbaraj done?

    Other than his feature films, Subbaraj has also involved himself in diverse anthology films like his segment in the 2015 indie Bench Talkies, Prime Video’s Puthum Pudhu Kaalai, and the Sri Lankan Civil War-set segment Peace in the Netflix series Navarasa.

    Why is Jigarthanda DoubleX Karthik Subbaraj’s best movie?

    Jigarthanda on its own is a memorable movie. But living up to its name, the prequel Jigarthanda DoubleX revamps its director-filming-gangster premise to a bigger, better, and more emotional level. In front of Subbaraj’s stylistic lens, choreographer-director Raghava Lawrence is a revelation as the menacing gangster-cum-Clint Eastwood aficionado Alliyus Caesar. Equally impressive is SJ Suryah as a fake director posing as Satyajit Ray’s student.

    Easter Eggs are plenty for cinephiles but the ‘70s-era style is perfectly balanced with some socio-political elements that make the prequel all the more emotional. Audiences witness Caesar’s change of heart in the face of his forest community’s struggles with ecological degradation and police brutality, gritty realities that are addressed with enough sensitivity and relevance. Jigarthanda DoubleX celebrates Subbaraj’s own stylistic world but with some heartwarming earnestness instead of any shameless self-indulgence.

  • 40 Best Fahadh Faasil Movies and Where to Watch Them

    40 Best Fahadh Faasil Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Within two decades, Fahadh Faasil has established himself as one of contemporary Indian cinema’s finest artistes. If you wish to go down a rabbit hole of this versatile Malayalam star’s heavily acclaimed filmography, we have got you covered with the definitive guide to his best movies and where you can watch them.

    Where can you stream Fahadh Faasil’s best movies?

    Most of Fahadh Faasil’s best movies are available to stream on mainstream OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, and specific Indian ones like Hotstar, ZEE5, and Sun NXT. Most of Faasil’s post-pandemic releases have also been Netflix and Prime originals, ensuring that they stay on these streaming platforms.

    Once you have got your Fahadh Faasil watchlist sorted, have a look at his diverse on-screen journey so far.

    Fahadh Faasil’s career at a glance

    While far from being a conventional nepo kid, Fahadh Faasil was still born in an artistic family with his father being the acclaimed Malayalam cinema director Fazil. His father had helmed many hits in Kerala but he couldn’t launch his son in the industry that easily. Faasil’s acting debut in his father’s romance Kaiyethum Doorath failed to make a mark in both critical and commercial terms.

    The disappointment hit Faasil hard who took a sabbatical from the craft for seven years until he returned in a segment in the anthology Kerala Cafe. 2011 was a notable year for his performance in the thriller Chaappa Kurishu which earned him some positive reactions. Faasil starred as a wealthy builder whose life gets intertwined with that of a working-class man over an ominous phone call.

    Further critical acclaim was to follow with 2012 projects like the harrowing thriller 22 Female Kottayam and the feel-good medical romantic drama Diamond Necklace. He won his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor, for his role as a sexual assault victim’s partner in 22 Female Kottayam.

    It was in the latter half of the 2010s when Faasil began to really shine for his dramatic prowess. An artiste who can convey a lot with just his eyes, Faasil emphasised on subtle physicality and a chameleon-like versatility instead of fixating with a loud, masala-heavy brand of heroism. Be it in his native language Malayalam or occasional Tamil and Telugu segues, Faasil has excelled in both lead and supporting parts.

    Even when Faasil is playing villainous characters, the actor asserts a layer of vulnerability and depth to humanise these characters. A few cases in point include the 2017 drama Thondi Muthalum Driksakshiyum, the televangelist Viju Prasad in the psychological thriller Trance, and, of course, the cult-favourite antagonist of Kumbalangi Nights, Shammi Sreenivasan.

    Other morally grey characters in Faasil’s rapidly increasing filmography include the titular character of Joji, a pandemic-era reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and Malik, a Godfather-style political drama that finds Faasil as a local leader forced to introspect on his influence.

    Faasil is one of Malayalam cinema’s most popular exports as is evident from his villainous parts in productions outside Kerala, like the Telugu blockbuster Pushpa The Rise Part 1, Kamal Haasan’s record-breaking Tamil thriller Vikram, and the acclaimed Tamil anti-caste drama Maamannan.

    It seems like that seven-year sabbatical really worked in Faasil’s favour!

    Why is Kumbalangi Nights Fahadh Faasil’s best movie?

    Fahadh Faasil has helmed many unforgettable movies as a leading man and yet it’s his villainous supporting part in Kumbalangi Nights that is synonymous with his career. The modern classic is a multi-dimensional exploration of masculinity and patriarchy within a dysfunctional Keralite family of four brothers.

    Adding to the chaos is Faasil’s wealthy but ruthless businessman Shammi Sreenivasan. Faasil’s Shammi has become a cult favourite character of Malayalam cinema with his quotable dialogues and morally ambiguous personality.

  • 25 Best Dulquer Salmaan Movies And Where to Watch Them

    25 Best Dulquer Salmaan Movies And Where to Watch Them

    Dulquer Salmaan has emerged as one of the most dynamic faces of Indian cinema, thanks to a string of romances, comedies, and human dramas in Malayalam (and occasionally in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu). If you too are a fan of the Bangalore Days and Ustad Hotel star, we’ve got you covered with the definitive ranking of Salmaan’s best movies along with a guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Dulquer Salmaan’s filmography?

    Prime Video, Netflix, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, Aha, and Manaroma MAX are abundant in Dulquer Salmaan’s finest movies. His streaming series debut Guns & Gulaabs is a Netflix original.

    Dulquer Salmaan’s Early Beginnings

    The youngest son of Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty, Salmaan didn’t instantly walk in the same path as his actor father. Instead, his initial plans were to pursue business management in Dubai following which he enrolled in a three-month-long acting course in Mumbai. The rest, as they say, is history.

    The year 2012 marked Salmaan’s acting debut with the action crime drama Second Show in which he played a reformed gangster seeking revenge for his friend’s death. The Malayalam film polarised critics even though it was a commercial success with Salmaan drawing praise as its lead.

    Breakout with Ustad Hotel, Bangalore Days and More

    In the same year as his debut performance, Salmaan starred in the now-cult favourite Ustad Hotel. The Anwar Rasheed-directed drama is a heartwarming coming-of-age tale with Salmaan playing an aspiring chef who fights against his father’s wishes while being stuck at his grandfather’s hotel.

    The movie was a notable highlight for Salmaan’s dramatic prowess and charismatic range, paving the way for future hits like Bangalore Days (2014) and O Kadhal Kanmani (2015). The former was another coming-of-age romance following a cousin trio exploring their dreams and aspirations in the titular city of Bangalore.

    The latter was a Tamil romantic drama by auteur Mani Ratnam, exploring marriage and urban love from a new-age perspective. O Kadhal Kanmani proved Salmaan’s effortless charm as a self-reflective romantic lead, his on-screen chemistry with Nithya Menen was grounded in reality and filled with wholesome moments.

    Transition to action and adventure with Charlie, Kali, and Kurup

    While Salmaan built on his initial fame as a romantic hero, it didn’t take him much time to experiment with other genres. For instance, he played a carefree vagabond in the adventure drama Charlie (2015) while the very next year, he flirted with the action genre with Kali (2016). The latter starred him as a short-tempered man whose life turns awry after a run-in with a gangster.

    He also raised eyebrows with his performance as late Tamil actor Gemini Ganesan in the biopic Mahanati (2018), a Telugu-language exploration of the life of actress Savitra (also Gemini’s wife). Among his post-pandemic projects, Salmaan ambitiously took on another biopic Kurup that had him playing the titular gangster, a man on the run after killing a person for life insurance fraud.

    Karwaan, Chup and a Netflix show: Salmaan’s occasional Hindi projects

    Apart from the Malayalam actor’s occasional forays into Tamil (O Kadhal Kanmani) and Telugu (Mahanati), Salman has also made a few memorable Bollywood appearances. His Hindi-language debut was opposite Irrfan Khan in the slice-of-life road comedy Karwaan, followed by a psychological thriller Chup. Salmaan’s performance as a violent artist targeting a critic was a notable effort in the hero breaking typecast.

    He also made his streaming debut in the Hindi-language ‘90s-era noir Guns & Gulaabs, playing a cop who changes colours and morals with chameleon-like versatility.

    Why is Sita Ramam Dulquer Salmaan’s best movie?

    The period romantic drama Sita Ramam featured career-defining performances from Salmaan, Mrunal Thakur, and Rashmika Mandanna. The heartwarming tale of Salmaan’s orphaned soldier receiving letters from an anonymous lover makes for an emotional tearjerker of a movie.

  • How to Watch the Bhool Bhulaiyaa Movies In Order

    How to Watch the Bhool Bhulaiyaa Movies In Order

    A remake of the Malayalam ‘90s psychological horror Manichitrathazhu, Bhool Bhulaiyaa and its sequel subverted supernatural comedy in Bollywood while providing some genuine scares.

    If you want to watch the entire Bhool Bhulaiyaa series in chronological order, we've created a complete streaming guide to show you which streaming services have offers for every movie in the franchise and its associated remakes. We'll also let you know where to watch every title in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise in 4K and options to watch them legally for free online.

    How to watch the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise (chronological order)

    The chronological order of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa series is, fortunately, the same as its release order:

    The first film in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise follows a psychiatrist who investigates a haunted mansion where strange occurrences are linked to a centuries-old legend. As he delves deeper, he uncovers psychological twists and uncanny revelations about the past. Akshay Kumar’s performance as the eccentric psychiatrist and Vidya Balan’s stellar turn as a woman and her possessed dancer form drew critical acclaim and Bhool Bhulaiyaa has gone down as a cult classic in mainstream Bollywood.

    The 2022 sequel followed directly from the events of the first film. Kartik Aaryan led the franchise this time as a fraud exorcist who investigates yet another case of haunting by the first movie’s dancing spirit Manjulika. Apart from Aaryan, new additions to the franchise included Kiara Advani and Tabu with the latter filling Balan’s shoes in playing Manjulika’s latest victim.

    Despite Kumar and Balan’s absence, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 managed to win over critics and audiences alike and now will be followed by a direct sequel in 2024 with Aryan reprising his role.

    Which movie was Bhool Bhulaiyaa inspired by?

    Bhool Bhulaiyaa has its fair share of original jokes and catchy songs but director Priyadarshan’s supernatural comedy owes its existence to the 1993 Malayalam hit Manichitrathazhu. Starring Mohanlal in the lead role, the National Award-winning classic interestingly had Bhool Bhulaiyaa filmmaker Priyadarshan serving as an assistant director at the time. Mohanlal revisited his lead role in a 2013 spin-off titled Geethanjali.

    What other movies like Manichitrathazhu can Bhool Bhulaiyaa fans check out?

    The movie that inspired Bhool Bhulaiyaa has also spawned remakes in many other languages such as Kannada (Apthamitra), Tamil (Chandramukhi), and Bengali (Rajmohol).

    Where can you stream the Bhool Bhulaiyaa movies and its other inspirations?

    You can unfortunately not stream Bhool Bhulaiyaa even though it is still available to rent on Google Play, YouTube Movies. As for the sequel Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, you can watch it on Netflix. The Malayalam original can be streamed on Eros Now, and Prime Video and its spin-off Geethanjali on Prime Video and ZEE5.

  • How to Watch the Munna Bhai Movies In Order: A Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Munna Bhai Movies In Order: A Streaming Guide

    Kickstarting director Rajkumar Hirani’s career and resurrecting Sanjay Dutt’s status as a leading man, the Munna Bhai franchise has provided some of Bollywood’s funniest and most heartwarming comedies. If you wish to go on a Munna Bhai binge, we’ve got you covered with a complete streaming guide of the movies in order along with a handy guide on where to stream them all.

    How to watch the Munna Bhai movies in order?

    The Munna Bhai franchise’s entries can be streamed in the same order as their release date. While Munna Bhai MBBS establishes the recurring characters Munna Bhai and Circuit, the sophomore film Lage Raho Munna Bhai is a spiritual sequel building upon a different premise.

    The first movie followed the goon Munna Bhai (Sanjay Dutt) as he aims to change his ways and become a medical student instead. Thrown in the mix are fan favourite characters like his loyal sidekick Circuit (Arshad Warsi) and the strict medical college dean Dr Asthana (Boman Irani). The movie was a breakaway hit, offering Warsi his breakout acting role and establishing Hirani’s bankability as a filmmaker. As for the leading man, Sanjay Dutt witnessed a resurgence in popularity after a string of flops and publicized controversies.

    Three years later, the trio of Dutt, Warsi, and Hirani returned with another blockbuster sequel Lage Raho Munna Bhai. This time around, Munna Bhai has a change of heart yet again when he crosses paths with the ghost of Indian freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi. Boman Irani returns to the franchise in an antagonistic role (but playing a different character). There’s hardly any continuity to Munna Bhai MBBS’s medical comedy but the lovable tomfoolery of Munna and Circuit still endures in this social drama.

    Will there be a third Munna Bhai movie?

    Lage Raho Munna Bhai was supposed to lead up to a third movie titled Munna Bhai Chale America. But plans were canceled with Sanjay Dutt’s prison sentence in an illegal arms scandal. Even after Dutt served his time, he collaborated with Hirani on his religious satire PK and even became the subject of the biopic Sanju. However, no future developments for Munna Bhai Chale America have been revealed yet. Judging from the title, it is possible that the third movie might find Munna and Circuit flying to the US for some international misadventures.

    Does the Munna Bhai franchise have any remakes?

    The first Munna Bhai movie spawned several multi-lingual remakes. In Tamil, the auteur Kamal Haasan took on Dutt’s role in the Vasool Raja MBBS while Telugu superstar Chiranjeevei essayed the same role in Shankar Dada MBBS. Elsewhere in Kannada cinema, Upendra starred in Uppi Dada MBBS. Lage Raho Munna Bhai also led to one Telugu remake Shankar Dada Zindabad with Chiranjeevi reprising his role as the goon-turned-Gandhian.

    The correct order of viewing the Telugu remakes is the same as the Hindi versions (i.e. in order of release date).

    All remakes aside, Munna Bhai MBBS itself bears some vague resemblances to the medical drama Patch Adams (available to rent on Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play).

    Where can you stream the Munna Bhai movies?

    Munna Bhai MBBS and Lage Raho Munna Bhai are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and to rent on YouTube Movies, Google Play store, and Apple. As for the remakes, you can watch both the Shankar Dada movies on Sun NXT. The Tamil remake Vasool Raja MBBS can similarly be streamed on Sun NXT.

  • How to Watch the Drishyam Movies In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Drishyam Movies In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    The Drishyam movies found life in a few nail-biting Malayalam thrillers but over the years, the Mohanlal starrers have spawned many other remakes in languages like Hindi, Tamil and even Chinese and Korean. If you wish to watch the Drishyam movies in order, we have got you covered with a guide that not only gives you all the streaming platforms to watch the original franchise but the many remakes as well.

    How to watch the Drishyam movies in chronological order

    The original Malayalam-language Drishyam and its sequel Drishyam 2 can be watched in the same order as their release date.

    The same can be said for the two Hindi-language remakes starring Ajay Devgn, the Telugu remakes directed by Joseph again with Venkatesh in lead, and in Kannada with Ravichandran as the hero.

    Hindi:

    Telugu:

    Kannada:

    Additionally, the first part was also remade in Tamil as Papanasam with Kamal Haasan in Mohanlal’s role and in Sri Lanka’s Sinhalese language as Dharmayuddha and in Chinese as Sheep Without A Shepherd.

    Ranking among the best Mohanlal movies, Jeetu Joseph’s cerebral 2013 thriller Drishyam found Mohanlal playing an ordinary video store owner who must defend his family from a vengeance-seeking policewoman after her son goes missing.

    Building nail-biting tension from everyday situations with some splendid plot twists, Drishyam broke new ground in mainstreaming Malayalam thrillers and spawned several frame-to-frame remakes in other languages. A Korean remake was also announced in 2023, making Drishyam the first Indian movie to be remade in Korean.

    In 2021, the cult hit received a direct sequel with the Prime Video release of Drishyam 2. The movie continued Mohanlal’s protagonist saving his family as the murder case from the first film is investigated further. The sequel was soon remade in Hindi, Kannada, and Telugu.

    Will there be a Drishyam 3?

    While Drishyam 2 wrapped up the first movie’s arc, both director Jeetu Joseph and lead actor Mohanlal have occasionally stated their interest in joining forces for a third time. Joseph has also revealed that while he has figured out the climax of Drishyam 3, the scripting and production might take him a few years.

    Where can you watch the Drishyam movies and remakes?

    Drishyam and most of its remakes (Hindi, Kannada) are available to stream on Hotstar. The Hindi-remake in particular is also available to watch on Netflix and Jio Cinema (for free).

    Drishyam 2, on the other hand, is an Amazon Prime Video original, the OTT service also being the home for its Hindi and Telugu remakes. Papanasam and Drushyam are on Sun NXT. The Kannada sequel Drishya 2 is available to stream on ZEE5.

  • How to Watch the Welcome Movies In Order - A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Welcome Movies In Order - A Complete Streaming Guide

    The 2000s were a golden era for Bollywood screwball comedy with Welcome being one particular highlight. As the Welcome series gets a new jungle-themed installment in 2024, have a look at our streaming guide to discover where you can watch the Welcome movies and in what order.

    How to watch the Welcome movies in chronological order

    The Welcome movies can fortunately be watched in the same order as their release date.

    The first movie Welcome continues to be a mainstream comedy classic with its quotable one-liners and sarcastic quips still actively referenced in memes and TV reruns. The crime comedy featured Akshay Kumar’s Rajeev and Katrina Kaif’s Sanjana as an ill-fated couple in the crosshairs of the latter’s brothers, the goofy gangster duo of Uday Shetty and Majnu Bhai played by Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor. The movie’s ensemble also notably features Paresh Rawal playing Kumar’s on-screen father, the simple-minded, unlucky Dr. Ghungroo.

    The Welcome franchise returned with a direct sequel in 2015 sans Kumar, even as the chuckle-inducing trio of Kapoor, Patekar, and Rawal returned to reprise their roles. Yet again doubling as a rom-com and a mob movie satire, the sequel found director Anees Bazmee returning to helm the 2015 hit with new cast members including John Abraham, Shruti Haasan, and Naseeruddin Shah.

    Now, with a little less than a decade later, Welcome is expected to return with a third movie Welcome to the Jungle. As is evident from the title, the setting is changed from metropolitan gang-ridden cities to a forest instead. Akshay Kumar returns to play yet another character called Rajeev even though this installment is supposed to be only a spiritual sequel.

    Not directly connected to the main story of the first two movies, Welcome to the Jungle features a bigger cast with returning faces like Kumar and Paresh Rawal and new franchise joinees like Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty and many more. Unlike Welcome and Welcome Back, Aneez Bazmee isn’t returning to direct with Ahmed Khan filling his shoes.

    Where can you watch the Welcome movies?

    Welcome is available to stream on numerous OTT services like Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, and Vi Movies & TV. You can also watch it for free on Jio Cinema and Shemaroo. As for Welcome Back, the comedy is available to stream on Eros Now and for free streaming on ZEE5 and Jio Cinema. Welcome to the Jungle still awaits a theatrical release.

  • How to Watch the Dhamaal Movies In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Dhamaal Movies In Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    With three movies boasting hilarious one-liners and over-the-top gags, the Dhamaal franchise is one of contemporary Bollywood’s best comedy franchises. If you wish to watch all the Dhamaal movies in order, we have got you covered with a roundup of the Dhamaal trilogy in order and where to stream them. 

    How to watch the Dhamaal movies in chronological order

    With the first two Dhamaal movies directly connected to each other and the third one being a reboot, the Dhamaal series can fortunately be streamed in the same order as their release date.

    The first Dhamaal remains a cult classic winning over critics and audiences alike for its goofy premise and intertwined subplots connecting to a wild treasure hunt. Loosely inspired by the vintage Hollywood comedy It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, the film found a ragtag bunch of four slackers and a corrupt cop as they battled each other in laying claim to a dead man’s treasure.

    Sanjay Dutt’s cop character and the rest of the ensemble (Arshad Warsi, Jaaved Jaffrey, Riteish Deshmukh and Aashish Chaudhary) returned a few years later in Double Dhamaal, a direct sequel that builds up from its predecessor’s events and continues exploring the many exploits of the franchise’s conman protagonists.

    Even as Double Dhamaal failed to replicate the first movie’s legacy, it fared well at the box-office. The third movie Total Dhamaal was a reboot of the franchise and found many of the first two movie’s cast-members returning along with new additions like Ajay Devgn, Madhuri Dixit, and Anil Kapoor. The movie yet again went ahead with the first part’s treasure hunt premise, increasing the stakes and the budget.

    With Total Dhamaal yet again subjected to mixed reviews, the movie was a box-office hit, leaving the franchise to be profitable enough to yield any sequels in the future.

    Where can you stream the Dhamaal movies?

    The original Dhamaal’s popularity is evident from the many OTT services where you can stream it. These include Amazon Prime Video, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, Shemaroo, and Vi Movies & TV. As for Double Dhamaal, it is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and ZEE5 again. You can watch the reboot Total Dhamaal on Hotstar.

    As for the movie’s original Hollywood inspiration It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, you can rent it on Amazon and Apple TV.

  • How to Watch the Race Movies in Order - A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch the Race Movies in Order - A Complete Streaming Guide

    A trendsetting action franchise in 2000s and 2010s-era Bollywood, the Race trilogy has spawned a few blockbusters. If you wish to binge on this high-octane, adrenaline-fueled franchise, then we have got you covered with a guide that not only tells you the correct viewing order of the movies but also where to stream them all.

    How to watch the Race movies in chronological order

    The correct sequence to watch the Race trilogy is in the same order as the release date. While the first two movies are directly connected, the third installment however only acts as a spiritual sequel.

    The first installment was directed by the twin brother duo Abbas-Mustan, who had previously helmed many other action genre mass-entertainers. Venturing in a somewhat neo-noir territory, Race featured an all-star cast including the likes of Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna as a pair of businessmen brothers at odds with each other. As their personal conflict turns into a whirlwind of assassination plots and car chases, Anil Kapoor plays an unorthodox policeman on their trail.

    Race 2 continued the story further with Khan and Kapoor’s characters crossing paths with the leader of the Indian mafia in Turkey. Apart from John Abraham playing the big baddie, new additions to the franchise included Deepika Padukone and Jacqueline Fernandez. With Abbas-Mustan yet again on the director’s chair, the direct sequel fared well at the box office even if critical reviews were mixed.

    A spiritual sequel with a different storyline was Race 3 that found choreographer-turned-filmmaker Remo D’Souza (of the ABCD movies) serving as director this time. Saif Ali Khan was replaced by Salman Khan with Anil Kapoor playing a brand-new character. Despite the involvement of a Bollywood megastar like Salman Khan, the movie underperformed commercially leaving the fate of the Race franchise uncertain.

    Will there be a Race 4?

    Despite the disappointing box office performance of Race 3, a fourth and final installment is still on the cards with Remo D’Souza hinting that production will start in 2024. Salman Khan is yet again announced to star and the franchise’s perpetual face Anil Kapoor can also be expected.

    Where can you stream the Race movies?

    Race and Race 3 are unfortunately not available to stream at the moment but can be legally downloaded or bought from Google Play and YouTube movies in India. As for Race 2, you can watch the 2013 hit on Netflix or rent it on Google Play, Amazon, and YouTube movies.

  • How to watch the Don and Billa Movies in Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to watch the Don and Billa Movies in Order: A Complete Streaming Guide

    From Amitabh Bachchan to Shah Rukh Khan and now Ranveer Singh, the titular role of the internationally wanted gangster Don has been reserved for some of Bollywood’s most dynamic leading men. With so many actors playing the titular role and many other remakes of the franchise, keeping track of the Don movies can be challenging. But we have got you covered with the definitive streaming guide to all the Don sequels and remakes.

    How to watch the Don movies in chronological order

    Watching the Don franchise can be confusing for it has been remade and rebooted several times but it’s easier viewing them in the same order as their release date.

    The lore of Don began with the 1978 classic that starred Amitabh Bachchan in a double role as a charismatic gangster and his doppelganger Vijay, a police insider who impersonates Don after his apparent death. Written by Sholay’s acclaimed duo Saleem-Javed and ranking among one of Amitabh Bachchan’s best movies, Don still endures as a cult classic.

    In 2006, Don screenwriter Javed Akhtar’s son Farhan rebooted the franchise with the same premise but on a larger scale with big-budget action sequences. Shah Rukh Khan filled Bachchan’s shoes as Don and Vijay with the movie even recreating its predecessor’s iconic songs like “Paan Banaras Wala”. The reboot was a commercial success and was followed by a direct sequel Don 2 (2011) that takes place a few years later.

    With Khan straying away from the franchise after Don 2, many of the actor’s fans wished for him to return as the stylish criminal for a third time. But with Don 3’s casting announcement, it is clear that Ranveer Singh will take the mantle of Don this time. Not much is known about the upcoming film but even with Farhan Akhtar’s contribution to the script, the film is expected to be yet another reboot with no connection to the SRK films.

    How to watch the Don Tamil remakes in chronological order

    Both Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan’s takes on Don inspired remakes in other languages, most prominently in Tamil. While the first remake Billa (1980) is a standalone watch, the correct order to watch the Ajith Kumar-led remakes is to watch Billa II (2012) before Billa (2007) as the former is the prequel.

    The original Don served as the inspiration for Billa that found Tamil superstar Rajinikanth taking on the titular role of the gangster Billa and his identical double Rajappa. The 1980 hit was later remade under the same name in 2007 with Ajith Kumar starring in a dual role. The movie was followed by the prequel Billa II that traced the gangster’s rise to power in the 1990s.

    Billa II was thematically and stylistically very different from the Bollywood Don movies as the prequel dealt with the turbulent Sri Lankan politics of the era and amped up the violence to a more graphic level.

    How to watch the Don Telugu and Malayalam remakes in chronological order

    Don and Billa were also remade in Telugu and Malayalam, each of which can be watched in any order as they are all standalone narratives.

    Telugu: 

    Malayalam:

    Where can you stream the Don movies and remakes?

    Amitabh Bachchan’s original Don is available to stream on ZEE5 while you can watch both the Shah Rukh Khan-led movies on Netflix and Prime Video. The modern Tamil remakes (Billa, Billa II) are available on ZEE5 and Sun NXT respectively although you can also stream Billa II for free on MX Player. The Telugu Billa is available to stream on ZEE5 and Sun NXT.

  • How to Watch Rajinikanth’s Robot Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Rajinikanth’s Robot Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    Rajinikanth has endured as a Tamil superstar for decades but 2010’s Enthiran (released as Robot in Telugu and Hindi) marked a new chapter in his career for modern audiences. So, gear up for the superstar in double roles, a lot of cyborg action, and AR Rahman’s techno-infused music score. Here’s a complete streaming guide for you to check out Rajinikanth’s cult sci-fi epic and its associated movies in chronological order.

    How to watch the Robot movies in chronological order

    You can fortunately watch the Robot movies in the same order as their release date:

    Enthiran starts off with Rajinikanth playing a gifted robot scientist Vaseegaran who creates the lifelike humanoid cyborg Chitti (also played by Rajinikanth). But when Chitti starts developing feelings for his creator’s girlfriend Sana (Aishwarya Rai), chaos ensues with cloned cyborgs and a robotic revolution.

    The movie is followed by the direct sequel 2.0 that finds Vaseegaran teaming up with Chitti once again to defeat a mutant supervillain (Akshay Kumar) who possesses the ability to manipulate birds.

    The sequel yet again finds Rajinikanth in a double role even though Rai chose to sit back as the female lead with Amy Jackson filling her spot as a new android named Nila. Both Enthiran and 2.0 are directed by Rajinikanth’s Sivaji The Boss collaborator Shankar.

    How is Ra. One connected to the Robot movies?

    Indian sci-fi movies dealing with robots are less in number and it’s not surprising that a Bollywood entry in this genre is connected to the Robot franchise. Despite Chitti being kept in a museum at the end of the first movie, he makes a guest appearance in Ra. One (that interestingly also had Shah Rukh Khan in a similar double role as a scientist and a video game character created by him).

    Reprising his role as Chitti, a computer-generated version of Rajinikanth briefly appears to assist the video game hero G-One. It’s uncertain where Ra. One fits in the Robot series but it is likely to sit somewhere between Enthiran and 2.0 as Chitti still retains his appearance from the former (instead of the red spiked hair and armor from 2.0).

    In what languages can you watch the Robot movies?

    Both the Robot movies are available to stream in the original Tamil as well as the Hindi dubs. Considering that the first movie starred Bollywood actor Danny Denzhongpa as the villain and Akshay Kumar filled his shoes in the sequel, both of their parts were originally recorded in Hindi (and dubbed over in the Tamil versions).

    Will there be a third movie in the Robot series?

    Considering that 2.0 is the second highest-grossing Tamil film at the time of writing, and with Enthiran ranking at tenth, it’s safe to say that the Robot franchise has been a commercial success. While neither Shankar nor Rajinikanth have confirmed another sequel, it wouldn’t be surprising if a third Robot movie gets greenlit.

    Where can you stream the Robot movies?

    Both Enthiran and its dubbed version, Robot , are available to watch on Sun NXT. 2.0, on the other hand, is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video or to rent on Amazon. Ra. One can be streamed on Eros Now and on ZEE5 (for free).

  • How to Watch Jigarthanda Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Jigarthanda Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    Karthik Subbaraj established himself as one of Tamil cinema’s freshest voices in the 2010s when he helmed the 2014 crime comedy Jigarthanda. The movie’s success led to a spiritual successor and remakes in many other languages. If you wish to watch the Jigarthanda movies in chronological order, we have got you covered with a complete streaming guide to show you which streaming services have offers for every movie and remake in the franchise.

    How to watch the Jigarthanda series (in chronological order)

    Jigarthanda Double X (2023) should be off your watchlist before you start Jigarthanda (2014) if you plan to watch Kartik Subbaraj’s movies in chronological order.

    1. Jigarthanda Double X (2023)

    2. Jigarthanda (2014)

    Both movies can even be watched independently as Jigarthanda Double X attempts to ape the core concept of Jigarthanda and focus on a different setting and different characters. While the 2014 movie focused on a novice director filming the exploits of a real-life gangster, the same director-gangster equation plays out in Jigarthanda Double X but in the 1970s. But a post-credits scene connects the two movies with a younger version of Sethu (the gangster in Jigarthanda) revealed to be the son of Alliyan Caesar (the gangster in Jigarthanda Double X).

    Both movies are interesting time capsules to the eras in which they are set. Jigarthanda captures the 2010s modernity well while Jigarthanda Double X emulates the turbulent politics of the ‘70s along with the rise of then-upcoming stars like Tamil hit-machine Rajinikanth. Even The Godfather and The Godfather II, both of which released in the early 1970s, are heavily referenced in this prequel.

    Does Jigarthanda have any remakes?

    If you’re not satisfied with just the Jigarthanda movies in Tamil alone, there are many other remakes to binge on.

    The first Jigarthanda remake was a Kannada movie of the same name, followed by a Telugu version Gaddalakonda Ganesh and a Hindi one titled Bachchan Paandey. As all of the remakes follow the same premise as the 2014 original, you can watch them in any order.

    Where can you watch the Jigarthanda movies and remakes?

    The first Jigarthanda movie by Subbaraj is available to stream for free on Hotstar. Its prequel Jigarthanda Double X can be streamed on Netflix and Sun NXT in its original Tamil version as well as dubbed editions in Hindi and Telugu. Unfortunately, the Kannada and Telugu remakes aren’t available on any streaming platforms but you can still watch the Hindi remake Bachchan Paandey on Amazon Prime Video.

  • How to Watch 1920 Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch 1920 Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    The year 1920 is synonymous with Bollywood horror, thanks to the supernatural franchise of the same name. But with so many 1920 movies released in the past two decades, keeping a track of them can be difficult.

    So, we’ve got you covered with a complete streaming guide to watch every 1920 movie in chronological order. We have also added a streaming guide to show you which OTT platforms have offers for every movie in the franchise.

    Let’s get started for a spooky binge watch!

    How to watch the 1920 movies in chronological order

    The chronological order of watching the 1920 movies:

    Considering that every 1920 movie features a new set of characters in different settings, each movie can be watched on its own or in order of the release date. But in terms of the years in which the movies unfurl, the 2018 spin-off 1921 can be watched in the end, once you’re all done with the other parts.

    The first 1920 movie was written and directed by Indian horror veteran Vikram Bhatt and went on to be a massive commercial success. Loosely inspired by The Exorcist, 1920 was set in a haunted mansion with a premise centered around a possessed girl in pre-Independence India.

    The sequel 1920: Evil Returns explored similar cases of possession in the very same year but the settings and characters were replaced. The third movie took the paranormal adventures to London while 1920 - Horrors of the Heart revolved around a girl investigating her father’s suicide in colonial-era Bombay. Even though 1921 was released before 1920 - Horrors of the Heart, the movie is set a year after the rest of the franchise and follows a fame-seeking pianist in 1920s England.

    What is the Bhatt family’s connection to the 1920 movies?

    Vikram Bhatt has been a recurring creative behind most of the movies, directing 1920 and 1921, penning the screenplay for 1920: Evil Returns, and producing the entire franchise. His brother, the acclaimed director Mahesh Bhatt has also had producer and story credits on most of the movies, even writing the script for 1920 - Horrors of the Heart.

    Are the 1920 movies based on true stories?

    Much like how The Exorcist itself was inspired by real-life cases of Catholic exorcisms, the 1920 movies are inspired by actual cases of possession and exorcisms observed by Hindu and Christian priests. But the characters and the ghosts are largely fictional.

    Where can you watch the 1920 movies?

    Amazon Prime Video offers most of the 1920 movies to watch (1920, 1920: Evil Returns, 1920 London and 1921). As for the latest installment 1920 - Horrors of the Heart, you can stream it in 4K on Hotstar. You can also stream 1920 London on ZEE5 for free (but with ads), or rent it on Google Play and YouTube movies.

  • K.G.F Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    K.G.F Movies In Order – A Complete Streaming Guide

    From the anthemic echoes of the song “Salaam Rocky Bhai” to the hammer-wielding hero’s stylish violence, the K.G.F movies have dominated pop culture and introduced Kannada action cinema to the Indian mainstream. If you need a ready guide to stream the KGF movies in chronological order, we've created a complete streaming guide to show you which streaming services have offers for every movie in the franchise.

    How to watch the K.G.F movies in chronological order

    The chronological order of Prashant Neel’s K.G.F. movies are the same as the release order:

    With its titular acronym standing for Kolar Gold Fields, the K.G.F movies are set in the midst of the criminal and political nexus around the gold mined from Karnataka’s mineral-rich town Kolar. Both movies double as period dramas with the first movie’s events taking place from the 1950s to the 1970s. K.G.F: Chapter 2 takes the narrative further by delving into the late 1970s and early 1980s.

    Kannada superstar Yash stars as the franchise’s antiheroic face Rocky Bhai, an underdog who rises up the ranks of Mumbai’s gold mafia in the first part. Establishing his dynamic charisma and penchant for violence, Rocky is then assigned to assassinate the inheritor of the Kolar Gold Fields, driving him to reconnect with his past in Karnataka.

    The second part finds him against odds with his previous target’s brother Adheera (played by Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt). The scope also expands to incorporate national politics with Raveena Tandon playing an authoritarian Prime Minister (a subtle nod to ex-Indian PM Indira Gandhi).

    In the course of two movies, the K.G.F franchise has broken box-office records, won several acting, directing, and stunt choreography accolades, and turned into a pop culture phenomenon on social media.

    Will there be a K.G.F Chapter 3?

    While director Prashant Neel moved on to a new franchise with Salaar, a third K.G.F movie is still on the cards as is evident from the post-credits scene of K.G.F: Chapter 2. With a CIA Agent handing over a file of Rocky’s international crimes to the Prime Minister and a peon finding a draft titled “KGF Chapter 3”, it’s clear that we will get a third movie sometime in the future.

    Considering that K.G.F: Chapter 2 is still the second-highest grossing Indian movie of all time, it is also marketable enough to convert the two movies into a full-fledged trilogy.

    Where can you stream the K.G.F. movies?

    K.G.F.: Chapter 1 is available to stream on Hotstar for free. As for the second movie K.G.F: Chapter 2, you can watch it on Amazon Prime Video or rent it on the Amazon store. While both movies are in Kannada, their dubbed Hindi versions are also available on both streaming platforms.

  • 30 Best R Madhavan Movies and Where to Stream Them

    30 Best R Madhavan Movies and Where to Stream Them

    Recently appearing as the villain in the psychological thriller Shaitaan, R Madhavan has been diversifying his portfolio over the years. The reputed Tamil and Hindi character actor has appeared in some modern Indian cinema classics and we’ve got you covered with the best Madhavan movies to stream.

    From romantic comedies like the Tanu Weds Manu series to endearing human dramas like Anbe Sivam and 3 Idiots to horrors like 13B and Shaitaan, Madhavan has done it all. Have a look below at where you can catch your beloved “Maddy” in film and TV.

    Where to stream R Madhavan’s filmography?

    Prime Video, Netflix, ZEE5, Eros Now, and Jio Cinema are some of the best places where you can abundantly stream Madhavan’s all-time classic movies. Some of his South Indian credits can be specifically found on platforms like Aha and Sun NXT while MX Player has some free-to-watch options.

    Most of Madhavan’s OTT series like The Railway Men and Decoupled can be streamed on Netflix while the neo-noir Breathe is a Prime Video original.

    From Vikram Vedha to 3 Idiots: R Madhavan’s multi-lingual track record

    As a film actor, Madhavan found his early fame in Tamil cinema with Mani Ratnam’s timeless rom-com Alaipayuthey (later remade as Saathiya in Hindi). The 2000 classic found Madhavan and Shalini playing a married couple as they discover the nuances of urban love and maturity after they elope.

    The following year, Madhavan earned further acclaim as the love-crazed protagonist in Gautam Mennon’s directorial debut Minnale. The drama which finds Madhavan’s Rajesh taking the identity of another man to impress his college sweetheart plays out as a gripping tragedy of errors. A more popular take on the story is the Hindi remake Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein that had the actor reprising his role and establishing his name further among Bollywood audiences.

    However, his Bollywood debut came with Ramji Londonwaley, a romantic comedy also co-written by him. Playing a friendly Indian chef in London, the movie established Madhavan’s chocolate boy image that he got to utilize in many other romances.

    And yet Madhavan has always dared to play against type. Hindi classics like Rang De Basanti and 3 Idiots found him playing complex supporting characters alongside Aamir Khan like an ill-fated pilot in the former and an engineering student with a passion for photography in the latter.

    Madhavan’s other experimental projects over the years include the bi-lingual projects: 13B, a cerebral low-budget horror and Irudhi Suttru, a gritty boxing drama with Madhavan as a strict coach.

    Vikram Vedha was another major career highlight for both Madhavan and its breakout star Vijay Sethupathi. While Sethupathi played a morally gray gangster with a penchant for storytelling, Madhavan’s Vikram was an equally ambiguous cop who interrogates him.

    In 2022, Madhavan also took to directing with Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, a biopic on Indian space scientist who was once falsely imprisoned for espionage. Madhavan’s direction and his lead performance as Nambi Narayan earned him accolades like the National Award for Best Feature Film.

    Why is Anbe Sivam R Madhavan’s best movie to watch?

    Anbe Sivam marked the first acting collaboration between Madhavan and Tamil auteur Kamal Haasan. The heartwarming human drama finds the two actors playing morally opposite characters who embark on a life changing train journey from Bhubaneshwar to Chennai. In the course of the ups and downs of their voyage, both characters reveal more about each other’s personality, building up to a memorable third act.

    Be it Anbe Sivam’s regular ranking among the IMDb Top 250 (India) or its cult status among Madhavan fans, this is one movie that clearly endures as his best. You can watch it on several OTT platforms like Prime Video, Hotstar, Aha, etc.

  • Every Indian Movie Submission To The Oscars for Best International Feature Film and Where to Stream Them

    Every Indian Movie Submission To The Oscars for Best International Feature Film and Where to Stream Them

    Despite only three Indian movies making the cut for the Best International Feature at the Oscars, India has regularly submitted a movie for the Academy’s consideration for many years since 1957. Have a look at every Indian submission at the Oscars’ prestigious global category along with our guide to stream them all.

    What is the latest movie to be submitted for the Oscars Best International Feature?

    The Malayalam disaster film 2018 (based on the Kerala floods in the titular year) was submitted as India’s official pick for the category but didn’t make it to the shortlist. You can stream the critically acclaimed and commercially successful drama on Sony LIV.

    In the buildup to the 2023 Oscars, the Gujarati coming-of-age drama Last Film Show was picked over audience favourite RRR (despite RRR later winning in the Best Original Song category) and made it to the official shortlist of 15 movies. However, the Gujarati movie couldn’t progress any further for the final list of five nominees. As of now, you can stream the movie on Netflix.

    How many Indian movies have been nominated for Best International Feature?

    While most of India’s submissions couldn’t make it to the final nomination list, three Hindi-language movies have represented the country at the Academy Awards. These include India’s first-ever submission, Mehboob Khan's endearing family drama Mother India along with Mira Nair’s urban class drama Salaam Bombay and Ashutosh Gowariker’s sports epic Lagaan.

    Mother India featured Nargis Dutt as a hardworking widowed farmer who toils on the field to provide for her family and ward off oppressive landlords. Salaam Bombay was Nair’s stellar debut featuring many young non-actors portraying the hardships of orphaned children in the slums of Mumbai. As for Lagaan, the Aamir Khan-starrer was set during the British Raj and recounted a cricket match played between a village’s inhabitants and their white overlords.

    How many films has India submitted to the Oscars?

    When it comes to the Best International Feature category, India has submitted a total of 56 films. Considering the linguistic diversity of the nation, 34 of these films were Hindi features while ten were in Tamil and four were in Malayalam (including the latest submission, 2018). Marathi was represented with three films and followed by two each in Gujarati and Bengali. One Assamese and one Telugu movie have also been selected.

    When has India not submitted to the Oscars?

    Since its notable first try with 1957’s Mother India, the Indian decision making body Film Federation of India (FFI) has occasionally strayed away from not sending a submission to the Academy up to the year 1984. From then onwards, the FFI has always sent an annual submission barring the year 2003 when it decided that no Indian film will be able to compete with submissions from other countries. Unsurprisingly, the decision was met with controversy among the Indian filmmaking community and the FFI has continued to submit movies every year.

    Where can you stream Indian Best International Feature submissions?

    Many of the recent submissions are available to watch on popular OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, Jio Cinema and ZEE5. Most of the older classics are available to watch on the same platforms along with Mubi, Shemaroo, Sun NXT, Hoichoi and more.

  • 25 Best Mahesh Babu Movies and Where to Watch Them

    25 Best Mahesh Babu Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Mahesh Babu, occasionally hailed as the "Prince of Tollywood," has made his mark in the Telugu film industry with his dynamic performances and captivating on-screen persona. We’ve got you covered with the best of Mahesh Babu’s film career along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Mahesh Babu’s filmography? 

    Netflix and Prime Video are good places to watch most of Mahesh Babu’s recent hits along with ZEE5. You can stream the rest of his filmography on OTT platforms like Sun NXT, Jio Cinema, Eros NOW, Lionsgate Play, and Aha. Some are even available to stream for free on MX Player like Okkadu, Khaleja, and Pokiri.

    Mahesh Babu’s Movie Career at a Glance

    Mahesh Babu embarked on his cinematic journey with the debut feature Raja Kumarudu in 1999, exhibiting early glimpses of his acting finesse. However, it was his breakthrough role as a cursed lover in the poignant supernatural fantasy drama Murari (2001) that catapulted him to prominence, showcasing his versatility across genres, be it romance, action, or familial narratives.

    The trajectory of Mahesh's career soared with the monumental success of the crime thriller Pokiri (2006), a cult classic that solidified his superstar status. His portrayal of an undercover cop in the guise of a goon in this film earned widespread acclaim, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly transition between various character archetypes.

    Subsequently, Mahesh mesmerized audiences with his multifaceted portrayals in a myriad of blockbusters. From the suave spy in Spyder (2017) to the endearing rogue in Khaleja (2010), he continuously pushed boundaries and explored diverse roles with aplomb. His filmography boasts an array of iconic characters, including the righteous journalist in Nijam (2003), the charming yet enigmatic contract killer in Athadu (2005), and the revenge-seeking policeman in Dookudu (2011).

    Mahesh's cinematic repertoire extends beyond conventional boundaries, with films like Srimanthudu (2015) and Maharshi (2019) showcasing his prowess as a socially conscious actor-producer. Through these projects, he not only entertained audiences but also imparted profound messages on societal issues.

    The former found him playing an inheritor of a business empire who sets out to improve the living standards of his ancestral town. Maharshi, offering another critically acclaimed performance, followed the actor in a similar role as an NRI businessman who returns to India to aid the downtrodden farmers of his friends’ village.

    Why is Athadu Mahesh Babu’s best movie to watch?

    Athadu is a gripping thriller that allowed Mahesh Babu to shed his romantic hero image and take on more nuanced, morally grey characters as well. Starring as a contract killer hired to take out a politician, the film finds his protagonist embroiled in a larger conspiracy as he’s later framed for the hit job. The web of lies plays out with intriguing performances from the supporting cast as well including veterans like Nassar and Prakash Raj. The movie remains a cult favorite among Mahesh Babu fans and has aged way better than his other early 2000s movies (that might today fall under an excessively over-the-top “masala” territory).

  • Every Oscar Winning And Nominated Indian Movie and Where to Stream Them

    Every Oscar Winning And Nominated Indian Movie and Where to Stream Them

    Hollywood’s biggest night unravels on March 10 this year, with the Oscars honouring movies ranging from the two Barbenheimer blockbusters and even an Indian-set Canadian documentary To Kill A Tiger. Considering India’s gargantuan film release output every year, it’s very rare for Indian productions to make it to the Academy Awards. But there are a few exceptions. Have a look at our list below of every Indian movie that has won or been nominated for an Oscar and where you can watch them.

    2023 Oscars: When RRR and The Elephant Whisperers earned India double wins

    While To Kill A Tiger might lack Indian producers, the country cherished the 2023 Oscars with Telugu action flick RRR’s energetic musical number "Naatu Naatu" winning Best Original Song (a historic first for India in this category) and the Kartiki Gonsalves-directed and Guneet Monga-produced Netflix documentary The Elephant Whisperers taking home the Oscar for Best Documentary Short. In the former’s case, music composer MM Keeravani and lyricist Chandrabose picked up the award.

    In the very same ceremony, Shaunak Sen’s Sundance favourite All That Breathes was also running for the Best Documentary Feature category but unfortunately lost to Navalny. Just a year before Sen’s loss, Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh’s Writing With Fire was also competing for Best Documentary Feature. While All That Breathes explored the lives of two veterinary brothers committed to protecting the birds of Delhi, Writing With Fire followed the trials and tribulations of rural urban journalists.

    From Mother India to Lagaan: India’s Best International Feature Submissions

    Despite India submitting to the Best International Feature category every year, only three movies from the country have managed to make it to the top five (all three being Hindi-language dramas).

    Back when the Best International Feature category was known as Best Foreign Language film, Mehboob Khan’s epic social drama Mother India made history by marking India’s first-ever Oscar nomination in 1957. The Nargis Dutt-starrer ultimately lost to Federico Fellini’s Nights of Cabiria (Italy).

    Decades later, Mira Nair’s coming-of-age tale on urban poverty Salaam Bombay secured a spot in the category but lost out to the Danish submission Pelle The Conqueror.

    The last Indian movie to get nominated for Best International Feature is the Aamir Khan-led period cricket epic Lagaan. The anti-imperialist narrative of colonised Indians challenging their British overlords for a cricket match struck a chord with international audiences and Lagaan was nominated alongside the acclaimed French romance Amelie at the 2001 Oscars. Lagaan eventually lost out to Bosnian war film No Man’s Land.

    AR Rahman, Satyajit Ray, and more: The Indian Oscar wins from non-Indian movies

    If we look back at Indian representation in the Oscars, many of the winners were awarded for films set in India but mostly produced under the umbrella of Hollywood. So, something like 2009 Best Picture winner Slumdog Millionaire was ultimately a British production with Danny Boyle on the director’s chair. Set in the slums of India’s metropolitan hub Mumbai, the movie featured music by AR Rahman. The Indian virtuoso earned himself an Oscar for Best Original Song for “Jai Ho” (written by co-winner Gulzar) and another Oscar for Best Original Score. Similarly, Indian sound designer Resul Pookutty bagged the Oscar for Best Sound Mixing that year.

    More prominent Indian Oscar-winners include veteran Bengali director Satyajit Ray who was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Oscar in 1992 and Bhanu Athaiya who won an Oscar for Best Costume Design for her work in Gandhi.

    Where to stream India’s Oscar-winning and nominated movies?

    Netflix, Hotstar, ZEE5 and Jio Cinema offer most of the recent Oscar winners. As for Best International Feature nominees, you can watch Mother India on Eros Now and Shemaroo, while you can stream Lagaan on Netflix.

  • 25 Best Ram Charan Movies and Where to Stream Them

    25 Best Ram Charan Movies and Where to Stream Them

    Ram Charan, scion of the illustrious Chiranjeevi dynasty, is one of the most popular stars of the Telugu film industry and his fame is only increasing, thanks to the Oscar-winning blockbuster RRR. If you too are a fan of the Magadheera star, we have curated a list of his best and most popular movies along with a guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Ram Charan’s best movies?

    Most of Ram Charan’s filmography is available to watch on a wide variety of OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, Sun NXT, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, and Aha. The ones featured on Hotstar and Netflix are also available to stream in dubbed versions in Tamil and Hindi.

    Early Career and Magadheera Breakout

    Born into a family synonymous with Tollywood greatness, the son of megastar and politician Chiranjeevi made his acting debut with Chirutha in 2007, garnering attention for his remarkable screen presence and commitment to his craft.

    One of the defining moments in Ram Charan's career came with the fantasy epic Magadheera (2009), directed by S.S. Rajamouli. In this cinematic spectacle, he essayed the dual roles of Kala Bhairava and Harsha, showcasing his versatility and ability to portray contrasting characters within the same narrative. The film not only became a massive commercial success but also earned him critical acclaim for his compelling performances.

    Ram Charan’s Best Romances and Thrillers

    In the ensuing years, Ram Charan continued to diversify his roles, taking on the challenge of characters with varied shades. In the romantic drama Orange (2010), he portrayed a carefree young man grappling with love and life, displaying his range as an actor. The film may not have achieved blockbuster success, but Ram Charan's nuanced performance was acknowledged.

    His foray into the thriller genre with Dhruva (2016) marked another significant milestone. Portraying the titular role, Ram Charan played a determined police officer on a mission, impressing both critics and audiences with his intense and focused performance. The film's success reaffirmed his status as a bankable star capable of shouldering diverse genres.

    Continued success with Rangasthalam 1985 and RRR

    A watershed moment in Ram Charan’s career was marked with the 2018 rural drama Rangasthalam 1985 that showcased the zenith of Ram Charan's acting prowess. Directed by Sukumar, the film featured him as Chitti Babu, a hearing-impaired village youth. His transformative portrayal not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with the audience, catapulting Rangasthalam 1985 to become one of the highest-grossing Telugu films at the time.

    A few years later came his sophomore collaboration with S.S. Rajamouli, the globally renowned period epic RRR. An over-the-top action drama set in colonial India, Ram Charan starred alongside Junior NTR as freedom fighters who bring an Empire down to its knees. With an abundance of zany action sequences and energy brimming in its Oscar-winning song “Naatu Naatu”, RRR became a trendsetter and marked a new chapter in Ram Charan’s stellar career.

    In the meantime, Charan has also appeared in several movies alongside his father such as the period epic Sye Narsimha Reddy, the political thriller Acharya, and the action drama Khaidi No. 150.

    Why is Rangasthalam 1985 Ram Charan’s best movie to watch?

    Despite RRR being Ram Charan’s most popular title yet, it’s his 2018 drama Rangasthalam 1985 that brought out the best of his dramatic potential. Portraying a naive yet righteous villager who aims to go against an oppressive village landlord, Charan’s rousing portrayal won over critics and audiences alike, establishing him as a serious actor who can occasionally meander away from his more mainstream brand of stardom.

  • 15 Best Rashmika Mandanna Movies and Where to Watch Them

    15 Best Rashmika Mandanna Movies and Where to Watch Them

    When it comes to multi-lingual actresses, Rashmika Mandanna is one of the most sought-after performers in the Indian film industry with notable appearances in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi cinema. If you like the Pushpa and Animal actress, have a glance at our list of the best Rashmika Mandanna movies along with a guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Rashmika Mandanna’s filmography?

    Prime Video and Netflix offer most of Rashmika Mandanna’s recent hits to watch. You can stream the rest of her movies on Sun NXT, Hotstar, ZEE 5, MX Player, Voot, Sony LIV, and Jio Cinema.

    Rashmika Mandanna’s Career at a Glance

    Rashmika’s acting debut came in 2016 with the Kannada romantic comedy Kirik Party, directed by Rishab Shetty (before his Kantara fame). The film was a critical and commercial success, and Rashmika's portrayal of college student Saanvi Joseph, garnered widespread acclaim. Her natural charm and acting prowess quickly caught the audience's attention, earning her several awards and nominations, including the SIIMA Award for Best Debut Actress.

    Following the success of Kirik Party, Rashmika continued to establish herself as a leading actress in the Kannada film industry. She starred in movies like Anjani Putra (2017) opposite the late Puneeth Rajkumar and Chamak (2017) alongside Ganesh, further solidifying her position as a versatile performer capable of delivering both commercial success and critical acclaim.

    The same year, she starred opposite Vijay Deverakonda in the romantic drama Geetha Govindam, directed by Parasuram. The film was a massive commercial success and became one of the highest-grossing Telugu films of the year. Rashmika's performance as the titular heroine Geetha alongside Vijay Devarokanda’s protagonist garnered widespread acclaim, further elevating her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry.

    Rashmika's winning streak continued with films like the romantic comedy Devadas (2018), where she shared the screen with top actors like Nagarjuna and Nani, and the social drama Dear Comrade (2019), where she reunited with her Geetha Govindam star Vijay Deverakonda for a powerful romantic drama that showcased her acting range.

    In 2020, Rashmika ventured into the Tamil film industry with Sulthan, directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan, opposite Karthi. Though the film received mixed reviews, Rashmika's performance was widely appreciated, marking her successful foray into Tamil cinema. She has continued her Tamil career with the Thalapathy Vijay-starrer Varisu.

    Continuing her upward trajectory, Rashmika ventured into Bollywood with the family comedy-drama Goodbye, sharing screen space with Amitabh Bachchan, Neena Gupta and the titular dog. The period espionage thriller Mission Majnu followed as her next Hindi movie, a Netflix release starring Siddharth Malhotra that unfortunately didn’t get the best of reviews.

    However, it was the 2021 Telugu action-drama Pushpa: The Rise that offered a breakthrough in her career, with her instantly turning into a household name. This towering fame only continued with her third Hindi movie: the controversial and polarizing blockbuster Animal.

    The Ranbir Kapoor star vehicle explored a toxic antihero’s violent quest for revenge as his fiercely loyal wife (Rashmika) bears the brunt of his actions. Despite the debates on hypermasculinity that it sparked, Rashmika held her own and displayed her affinity for playing emotionally troubled characters.

    Why is Pushpa: The Rise Rashmika Mandanna’s best movie to watch?

    An all-out entertainer with equal parts style and substance, Pushpa: The Rise is the movie that put Rashmika Mandanna on the map. Telugu megastar Allu Arjun played the titular character, a smuggler of exotic red sandalwood with a rags-to-riches story. Despite the crime drama’s masculine elements, Rashmika offered a breath of fresh air as Srivalli, a strong-willed woman who runs her dairy business while also falling for the vigilante hero.

  • The Best Movies Directed by Kabir Khan and Where to Watch Them

    The Best Movies Directed by Kabir Khan and Where to Watch Them

    With just over seven feature films to his name, Kabir Khan has not only emerged as one of mainstream Bollywood’s most bankable directors but also one of its most diverse voices. From poignant narratives like Kabul Express and New York to melodramatic entertainers like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Ek Tha Tiger, here’s an ultimate list of the best Kabir Khan movies and a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Kabir Khan’s filmography?

    Prime Video and Netflix are abundant in Kabir Khan movies to watch although Hotstar and Apple (only for renting) can be helpful at times. Apart from directing movies, Khan also helmed The Forgotten Army- Azaadi Ke Liye, a period military drama recounting the exploits of Indian National Army soldiers allied with Japanese forces in World War II. The single-season show is available to stream on Prime Video.

    Kabul Express and New York: Kabir Khan’s Early Films

    Kabir Khan loves taking on socio-political issues in the Indian subcontinent, a hallmark in his directing career that is evident from his earliest films Kabul Express and New York. The former is one of the most underrated Yash Raj Films productions to watch, exploring the journey of two Indian journalists traversing Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Instead of relying on stereotypical depictions of this conflict-ridden territory, Khan’s direction incorporated a more empathetic approach while addressing religious fundamentalism, humanised militants, and the current state of war reporting.

    While not enduring as a commercial success, Kabul Express made Khan known among critics’ circles and gave way to his sophomore feature New York. Reuniting him with Kabul Express actor John Abraham and featuring Neil Nitin Mukesh and Katrina Kaif as co-leads, New York touched upon the Islamophobic racism faced by brown immigrants in a post-9/11 America. The film has only aged better with time.

    From Tiger to Bajrangi: Kabir Khan’s Collaborations with Salman Khan

    When it comes to minting box-office gold, Salman Khan has proven to be a lucky charm for Khan (the director). Tubelight is one exception with its mixed reviews but it was the two Khans’ collaboration Ek Tha Tiger that spawned the successful YRF Spy Universe franchise. The 2012 espionage thriller found Salman Khan playing an undercover spy who falls for his Pakistani counterpart (Katrina Kaif) in a high-stakes mission.

    Kabir Khan’s second effort with the Bollywood megastar amped up the emotions with Bajrangi Bhaijaan, yet again touching upon cross-border peace as the titular Indian protagonist takes it upon himself to help a Pakistani girl reach her home.

    '83 and Phantom: Continued Experimentation

    Following the blockbuster legacy of Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Khan is still not comfortable sticking to one formula. So, he revisited his multi-country shooting schedules and affinity for the spy genre with the terrorism-themed action thriller Phantom. His latest venture has been 2021’s sports drama ‘83 that recounts the Indian cricket team’s road to their first-ever World Cup victory. With Ranveer Singh playing the then-captain Kapil Dev and an ensemble of character actors as the rest of the men in blue, ‘83 showed Khan’s skills at helming biographical narratives.

    Why is Bajrangi Bhaijaan Kabir Khan’s best movie to watch?

    Offering a shockingly emotional turn by Salman Khan in the lead, Bajrangi Bhaijaan is Kabir Khan’s magnum opus for how well it captures all tropes of the director’s work. Instead of fixating on the enmity between the neighbouring countries of India and Pakistan, Khan offers a new hope with this tale of a gullible Indian man undertaking an arduous journey just so that a Pakistani girl can reunite with her parents. The movie further benefits greatly from Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s supporting act as a friendly Pakistani journalist and a tear jerking third act.

  • 10 Best Vidhu Vinod Chopra Movies and Where to Watch Them

    10 Best Vidhu Vinod Chopra Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Vidhu Vinod Chopra dominated the 2000s with production efforts like 3 Idiots, PK, and the Munnabhai movies. But he is a worthy director in his own right as you can take a look at the best Vidhu Vinod Chopra movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s filmography?

    Most of Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s movies are available to watch on Netflix and Prime Video while you can stream the rest on Hotstar, ZEE5 and Shemaroo. His Oscar-nominated short film An Encounter With Faces is available on Vinod Chopra Films’ official YouTube channel.

    Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the Director

    Finding early acclaim with his student films at FTII (Film and Television Institute of India), Vidhu Vinod Chopra earned the rare distinction of being an Oscar nominee from India when his 1978 documentary An Encounter with Faces was nominated for Best Documentary Short at the Academy Awards.

    Most of Chopra’s films from the ‘80s and ‘90s harboured a particular focus on grand musical numbers and passionate melodrama. This is particularly true in the period epic 1942: A Love Story although his other hits also prove his affinity for playing around with multiple genres. So, if Parinda, Khamosh and Mission Kashmir were unpredictable thrillers, later works like Eklavya: The Royal Guard and Shikara were dramas rooted in more fact-based history.

    Born and raised in Srinagar, Chopra has had an affinity for telling Kashmir-centric stories on celluloid. In this context, Mission Kashmir was a more commercial effort to shed light on the turbulence of the titular state. Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt’s morally grey protagonists represented different sides of the separatist struggle among Kashmiri populations.

    A more sensitive and personalised approach was adopted years later with Shikhara, a romantic drama dwelling upon the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s. While polarizing critics, Chopra was still praised for bringing to life a sensitive narrative largely influenced by Rahul Pandita’s poignant memoir Our Moon Has Blood Clots.

    While Chopra unabashedly aims to appeal to mainstream audiences, the director isn’t afraid to experiment every once in a while. Khamoshi, for instance, was meta for its time featuring many actors playing sarcastic versions of themselves (a practice uncommon in Bollywood back then).

    Then, after years of embarking on a directing sabbatical, Chopra made his Hollywood directorial debut with an English-language remake of his own 1989 crime drama Parinda. Broken Horses found Chopra directing Daredevil star Vincent D’Onofrio, the late Terminator Salvation actor Anton Yelchin, and several other Hollywood character actors.

    Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the Producer

    While this list covers Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s best movies as a director, his production credits are equally notable. Almost all of Rajkumar Hirani’s best movies were released under the Vinod Chopra films banner. Chopra and Hirani’s creative partnership started with the latter’s debut/breakout hit Munnabhai MBBS and its spiritual sequel Lage Raho Munnabhai.

    Striving to helm many such heartwarming family dramas to watch, their partnership continued through the coming-of-age comedy 3 Idiots, the religious-themed satire PK, and the semi-biographical drama Sanju.

    Why is 12th Fail Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s best movie to watch?

    There are only a handful of Bollywood directors who can offer their magnum opus at a later stage of their career. Already considered as a commercial auteur for cult hits like 1942 and Parinda, Vidhu Vinod Chopra took a backseat from directing for most of the 2000s and 2010s. But in 2023, Chopra sought out to adapt the real-life rags-to-riches journey of a village dreamer who works his way up to becoming an Indian bureaucrat. With a perfectly cast Vikrant Massey in the lead, 12th Fail played out as an gut-wrenching but ultimately optimistic tale of hard work and commitment, with positive role models  to look up to.

  • 20 Best Allu Arjun Movies and Where to Watch Them

    20 Best Allu Arjun Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Allu Arjun, the charismatic actor hailed as the "Stylish Star" of Indian cinema, has made a mark in mainstream Indian cinema with hits like S/O Satyamurthy, Vedam and the Pushpa franchise. If you too are a fan of the Telugu megastar, then we have got you covered with a definitive list of the best Allu Arjun movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Allu Arjun’s filmography?

    You can stream many of Allu Arjun’s recent hits on Prime Video and Netflix along with the South-centric OTT platform Sun NXT. Other additional options to watch his films include ZEE 5, Hotstar, Voot, Sony LIV, Lionsgate Play, Aha, Epic ON, and MX Player. The movies offered on Hotstar and MX Player can be streamed for free.

    Confused about where to start? Have a look at Allu Arjun’s career graph to decide what to watch.

    Allu Arjun’s Filmography at a Glance

    Born to an influential Telugu film family, Allu Arjun was destined for the limelight. While his uncle is the megastar Chiranjeevi, his father Allu Aravind was a prominent producer.

    Arjun made his silver screen debut with the romantic drama Gangotri in 2003, marking the inception of a glittering career. However, it was his portrayal of Aarya in the eponymous romantic action comedy that catapulted him to stardom. His nuanced performance earned him critical acclaim and endeared him to audiences, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

    A driving factor behind Allu Arjun’s stardom is his versatility with mainstream projects. He effortlessly transitions between roles, be it the lovable romantic in the Aarya series, the rugged soldier in Parugu, or the flamboyant dancer in Aarya 2. Each character he portrays bears his signature style, captivating viewers with his impeccable dialogue delivery, emotive expressions, and electrifying dance moves.

    Beyond his acting prowess, Allu Arjun is a trendsetter in fashion and dance. His distinctive style, characterized by trendy attire and unique hairstyles, has inspired a generation of fans, earning him the moniker "Stylish Star." Moreover, his dance performances are a visual spectacle, showcasing his agility, grace, and boundless energy.

    Arjun's illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades including five Filmfare Awards South and three Nandi Awards, a true testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication. Furthermore, his popularity transcends geographical boundaries, with a massive fan following not only in South India but also across the country (more so after him riding on the pan-Indian cinema bandwagon).

    In recent years, Arjun has expanded his horizons, venturing into pan-Indian cinema with projects like the 2021 blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise. A period action drama, Pushpa was a commercial hit in not just Telugu but also its dubbed versions in Tamil and Hindi.

    His performance as the eponymous Pushpa Raj was a talking point, along with the viral songs and powerful co-stars like Malayalam industry heavyweight Fahadh Faasil. The film’s story will conclude with 2024’s Pushpa: The Rule, a movie that promises to be one of the year’s most anticipated titles to watch out for.

    Why is Pushpa: The Rise Allu Arjun’s best movie to watch?

    Pushpa: The Rise marked a new chapter in Allu Arjun’s career with him eyeing an audience beyond his native Telugu industry. But commercial aspects aside, Arjun’s turn as a humble coolie-turned-charismatic sandalwood smuggler made for a compelling underdog story. Arjun’s whistle-worthy delivery of some quotable one-liners made the movie all the more entertaining, while showcasing some dramatic depth absent in his previous characters. Sukumar’s deft direction supports the epic storytelling, acting as a full circle for Arjun’s career for it was then-debutant Sukumar who directed Arjun’s breakout hit Aarya. From playing Aarya to Pushpa Raj, Allu Arjun has come a long way.

  • 40 Best Kishore Kumar Movies and Where to Watch Them

    40 Best Kishore Kumar Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Kishore Kumar, or Kishore da as he was popularly known, was a wearer of many hats dabbling in acting, singing and music production. If you still yodel along to Kumar’s iconic compositions and watch his evergreen comedies and romances, we have got you covered with a list of the best Kishore Kumar movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Kishore Kumar’s filmography?

    The all-time Bollywood great’s legacy still lives on with most of his movies available to stream on OTT platforms like Prime Video, Shemaroo and ZEE5. You can watch some of his other movies on Vi Movies & TV, MX Player (for free) Eros Now, and Jio Cinema as well.

    Once you have got your Kishore Kumar watchlist sorted out, have a look at his versatile career over the years.

    Kishore Kumar, the Singer

    Kumar's singing career skyrocketed in the 1950s, with his distinct voice and dynamic range setting him apart from his contemporaries. Hits like "Roop Tera Mastana," "Ek Ladki Bhigi Bhagi Si," and "Mere Sapno Ki Rani" cemented his status as the voice of a generation, earning him widespread acclaim and adoration.

    Kishore Kumar, the Actor

    In addition to his singing prowess, Kumar showcased his acting chops in a myriad of films, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles. Whether it was the lovable singing goofball in Padosan, or the eccentric protagonist in Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Kumar's on-screen presence was magnetic, captivating audiences across generations.

    Kishore Kumar's versatility as an actor shone brightly in films like Musafir, Dilli Ka Thug, Half Ticket and Mr X In Bombay. In Musafir, he displayed his dramatic range as a man grappling with the complexities of life and love, delivering a performance that was both poignant and memorable. Dilli Ka Thug showcased Kumar's comedic timing and flair for slapstick humor, as he effortlessly charmed audiences with his portrayal of a lovable rogue.

    Similarly, in Half Ticket, Kumar's portrayal of a man masquerading as a child to save money showcased his comedic genius, earning him widespread praise and accolades.

    Kishore Kumar, the Director and Writer

    Beyond his acting and singing, Kumar explored behind the camera with a directorial stunt on the heartbreaking post-war drama Door Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein and penning the story of the romantic comedy Jhumroo, both of which drew critical acclaim and showcased his creative vision and storytelling prowess. The former starred his son Amit Kumar in a poignant performance as a child who loses his voice when his family dies in a fire, barring his father who returns to his tragic home after years of conflict.

    Kumar's collaborations with leading filmmakers and composers further solidified his legacy. His partnership with composer R.D. Burman yielded timeless classics like "Yeh Shaam Mastani" and "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas," while his on-screen chemistry with actresses like Madhubala, Vyjayanthimala, and Mumtaz added to his appeal as a romantic hero.

    Despite facing setbacks and controversies throughout his career (including four rocky marriages, one of them with frequent co-star Madhubala), Kumar remained undeterred, continuing to innovate and entertain audiences until his untimely demise in 1987.

    Why is Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi Kishore Kumar’s best movie to watch?

    Outrageously hilarious with equal doses of sarcastic wit and slapstick comedy, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi endures as a cult classic. Starring Kumar with his real-life brothers Ashok and Anoop Kumar along with recurring collaborator Madhubala, this screwball road movie finds the trio hating on women until two of them have a change of heart. Exploring chauvinism and unrequited love in a lighthearted manner, you can stream the 1958 comedy on Prime Video and Shemaroo.

  • 40 Best Pankaj Tripathi Movies and TV Shows and Where to Stream Them

    40 Best Pankaj Tripathi Movies and TV Shows and Where to Stream Them

    From starting out as a character actor with blink-and-miss appearances to becoming a household name in his own right, Pankaj Tripathi has had quite a career in Bollywood and the Hindi OTT space. If you too are an admirer of the compelling Kaleen Bhaiya from Mirzapur, then we have you covered with a definitive list of the best Pankaj Tripathi movies and TV shows to watch.

    Where can you stream Pankaj Tripathi’s movies and shows?

    You can watch most of Pankaj Tripathi’s early works on popular OTT services like Netflix, Prime Video, Jio Cinema, Eros Now and so on. To watch most of his recent titles, Tripathi has been dabbling in many platform exclusives like Netflix (Sacred Games, Ludo), Prime Video (Mirzapur), Hotstar (Criminal Justice) and ZEE5 (Kadak Singh).

    But how did Pankaj Tripathi go from acting as gangster henchmen to a suburban godfather in Mirzapur? Have a look at his versatile journey so far.

    Wasseypur/Mirzapur: A Tale of Two Cities

    Pankaj Tripathi struggled with early uncredited or blink-and-miss appearances in the Kannada movie Chigurida Kanasu and acclaimed Hindi titles like Omkara, Bunty Aur Babli, and Apaharan. But it was Anurag Kashyap’s two-part crime epic Gangs of Wasseypur where he truly began to be recognised in the mainstream.

    Hurling a grenade and uttering obscenities in the very opening minutes of the hyper-violent period drama, Tripathi played the smart-mouthed gangster Sultan Quereshi. Appearing in a few yet crucial scenes and getting to deliver quotable dialogues, Tripathi paved the way for playing well-layered criminal characters in his future filmography.

    The neo-noir Gurgaon, for instance, found him playing a criminal family patriarch while he had a more hilarious turn as a soft-hearted goon in the Netflix anthology Ludo. It’s not surprising that his Hollywood debut Extraction also featured him as a ruthless mobster.

    Perhaps his best character on the other side of the law is another tough patriarch in Mirzapur, the Prime Video original crime drama that benefited greatly from Tripathi’s nonchalant dialogue delivery as the show’s overarching antagonist Akhanda Tripathi aka Kaleen Bhaiya.

    Further acclaim with Newton and beyond

    Newton was a dramatic highlight in Tripathi’s career with the actor playing a cynical paramilitary official who was at ideological odds with Rajkumar Rao’s idealist government servant. Playing a morally grey character with deadpan humour and grim realism, Tripathi finally could display his full dramatic range and earned his first Filmfare nomination.

    While Tripathi has had a long line of villainous roles, his performances can also evoke empathy and warmth. When it comes to playing caring and supporting fathers, Tripathi has found his niche with acclaimed performances in Bareilly Ki Barfi, Gunjan Saxena, and OMG 2.

    A notable performance with Tripathi in the lead includes Kaagaz that followed him portraying a farmer and activist who fights against the Indian bureaucracy after his name is wiped off government records.

    Other lead roles include a village leader-turned-tiger hunter in the Netflix adventure drama Sherdil, and an investigator with retrograde amnesia in the cerebral thriller Kadak Singh. And taking charge in an OTT series like Criminal Justice, the once-ignored actor has successfully carved his niche in numerous genres.

    Why is Sacred Games Pankaj Tripathi’s best work to watch?

    While Sacred Games was a trailblazer in Indian streaming from its first season itself, it’s Pankaj Tripathi’s hair-raising performance as a brainwashing godman in season 2 that made this Netflix original all the more compelling to watch.

    The International Emmy-nominated series is a gritty neo-noir with career-best performances from Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. As for Tripathi, he evokes fear and awe in his villainous turn as Khanna Guruji, a character that has only been  all the more socially relevant with time.

  • How to Watch Every Filmfare Award Winner for Best Film from 1954 to 2024 – A Complete Streaming Guide

    How to Watch Every Filmfare Award Winner for Best Film from 1954 to 2024 – A Complete Streaming Guide

    Awarded annually by the film magazine of the same name, the Filmfare Awards celebrate the best of Bollywood every year. Here’s a roundup of all the dramas, comedies, biopics, and musicals that have won the prestigious Best Film award at every Filmfare ceremony from its inception in 1954.

    As the awards turn seventy this year, here’s a look at every Best Film winner along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch all the Filmfare Best Film Winners?

    You can watch many of the older Best Film winners on Prime Video, Shemaroo, and ZEE5. Many of the later ones are available to stream on mainstream platforms like Netflix, Prime Video and occasionally Hotstar and Voot.

    What is the latest Filmfare Best Film Winner?

    12th Fail, the Vikrant Massey-led drama on the trials and tribulations of an UPSC aspirant, won the top award at the latest Filmfare ceremony. You can stream Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s tearjerker on Hotstar.

    What was the first-ever movie to win Filmfare for Best Film?

    Bimal Roy’s acclaimed social drama Do Bigha Zamin won the Best Film award in Filmfare’s inaugural year. One can stream the Balraj Sahni and Nirupa Roy-led movie on Vi Movies & TV, the streaming platform associated with the mobile network provider Vi.

    Which movie won Filmfare’s Special 50 Year Award?

    Often considered as the best Hindi movie of all time, the Western epic Sholay never won a Filmfare at the time of its release. Instead, it lost Best Film to another iconic Amitabh Bachchan-starrer (Deewar). However, in 2005, to mark 50 years of the awards, Filmare instituted a Special 50 Year Award to celebrate the best movie of these five decades. It’s this time when Sholay redeemed itself on the Filmfare stage earning this all-time-great title. The Indian pop culture trailblazer can be streamed on Prime Video.

    Were the Filmfare Awards ever cancelled?

    The Filmfare Awards for 1986 and 1987 were not awarded owing to some unspecified security reasons. There are high chances, however, for the cancellation stemmed in Bollywood’s strike against the state government of Maharashtra in 1986.

    Which Directors have the most Filmfare Best Film Wins?

    Having directed five Best Film winners at the Filmfares, Sanjay Leela Bhansali sets the record for being the director with the most wins. Director/producers Yash Chopra and Bimal Roy are tied with the record of producing the highest number of Best Film winners (four each).

    Which Actors have appeared in the most Filmfare Best Film winners?

    Despite his reluctance to appear at award ceremonies like Filmfare, Aamir Khan has starred in nine winning films, the most for any actor in a leading role. As for leading actresses, a record of three films has been set by Nutan, Madhuri Dixit, Rani Mukerji, Aishwarya Rai, and Alia Bhatt.

    Every Filmfare Award Winner for Best Film: A complete list

    • 1954 - Do Bigha Zamin
    • 1955 - Boot Polish
    • 1956 - Jagriti
    • 1957 - Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje
    • 1958 - Mother India
    • 1959 - Madhumati
    • 1960 - Sujata
    • 1961 - Mughal-e-Azam
    • 1962 - Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai
    • 1963 - Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam
    • 1964 - Bandini
    • 1965 - Dosti
    • 1966 - Himalaya Ki Godmein
    • 1967 - Guide
    • 1968 - Upkar
    • 1969 - Brahmachari
    • 1970 - Aradhana
    • 1971 - Khilona
    • 1972 - Anand
    • 1973 - Be-Imaan
    • 1974 - Anuraag
    • 1975 - Rajnigandha
    • 1976 - Deewaar
    • 1977 - Mausam
    • 1978 - Bhumika
    • 1979 - Mai Tulsi Tere Aangan Mei
    • 1980 - Junoon
    • 1981 - Khubsoorat
    • 1982 - Kalyug
    • 1983 - Shakti
    • 1984 - Ardh Satya
    • 1985 - Sparsh
    • 1986 - Ram Teri Ganga Maili
    • 1989 - Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak
    • 1990 - Maine Pyar Kiya
    • 1991 - Ghayal
    • 1992 - Lamhe
    • 1993 - Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar
    • 1994 - Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke
    • 1995 - Hum Aapke Hai Koun…!
    • 1996 - Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
    • 1997 - Raja Hindustani
    • 1998 - Dil To Pagal Hai
    • 1999 - Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
    • 2000 - Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
    • 2001 - Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai
    • 2002 - Lagaan
    • 2003 - Devdas
    • 2004 - Koi... Mil Gaya
    • 2005 - Veer-Zaara
    • 2006 - Black
    • 2007 - Rang De Basanti
    • 2008 - Taare Zameen Par
    • 2009 - Jodhaa Akbar
    • 2010 - 3 Idiots
    • 2011 - Dabangg
    • 2012 - Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
    • 2013 - Barfi!
    • 2014 - Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
    • 2015 - Queen
    • 2016 - Bajirao Mastani
    • 2017 - Dangal
    • 2018 - Hindi Medium
    • 2019 - Raazi
    • 2020 - Gully Boy
    • 2021 - Thappad
    • 2022 - Shershaah
    • 2023 - Gangubai Kathiawadi
    • 2024 - 12th Fail
  • 40 Best Dev Anand Movies and Where to Watch Them

    40 Best Dev Anand Movies and Where to Watch Them

    With a career spanning across six decades and over a hundred films to his name, the late legend Dev Anand carved his name in the higher echelons of Bollywood alongside other iconic artistes like Dilip Kumar and Guru Dutt. If you too are an admirer of Anand’s timeless filmography as an actor and director, we’ve got you covered with a definitive list of his best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream Dev Anand’s best movies?

    You can watch most of Dev Anand’s mainstream hits and cult favourites on Prime Video and Eros Now. As for the rest of his filmography, you can watch many of them on ZEE5 and Vi Movies & TV as well. Voot, Shemaroo, and YUPP TV are other platforms to stream.

    Dev Anand: A “Guide” to his Legendary Career

    Struggling to make his mark since the last years of the British Raj, the man born as Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand made his early breakthrough in post-Independence India with the 1948 social drama Ziddi, where his charming persona and nuanced acting captivated audiences.

    He continued to shine in iconic films like Guru Dutt’s revolutionary neo-noir Baazi (1951) and Vijay Anand’s globally-acclaimed tragedy Guide (1965), which showcased his shapeshifting versatility and unconventional approach to storytelling. His collaboration with directors like Guru Dutt and Vijay Anand resulted in timeless classics that redefined Indian cinema's narrative and aesthetic norms.

    Other timeless hits in Anand’s repertoire include the empathetic war drama Hum Dono  (1961), the crime caper Jewel Thief (1967), the prison drama Kaala Pani (1958), and the heist thriller Johny Mera Naam (1970), Anand's career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood.

    In Hum Dono, the “Evergreen Star of Bollywood” showcased his acting prowess by portraying dual roles of wartorn soldiers with nuance and depth, earning critical acclaim for his performance. Jewel Thief further solidified his status as a leading man, with his charismatic portrayal of a master thief entangled in a web of intrigue and suspense.

    Kaala Pani exemplified Anand's ability to delve into darker themes, portraying a convict facing injustice and redemption in the notorious Cellular Jail of Andaman. The film's gripping narrative and Anand's compelling performance garnered widespread acclaim.

    Johny Mera Naam epitomized Anand's collaboration with director Vijay Anand, delivering a high-octane thriller that became a blockbuster hit. Anand's portrayal of the titular character, a suave conman seeking revenge, resonated with audiences and further solidified his status as a matinee idol.

    As a filmmaker, Paying Guest (1957), marked the beginning of a successful directorial career. Films like Hare Krishna Hare Ram (1971) dared to explore then-taboo subjects like drug abuse with sensitivity, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.

    Why is Guide Dev Anand’s best movie to watch?

    Guide, based on RK Narayan's tragic romantic novel of the same name, is arguably Dev Anand's strongest work as a serious actor. The movie kicks off with Anand's playful tour guide who goes through a major existential crisis after a turbulent romance gone wrong and a stint as a false prophet. Taking on multiple themes like loveless relationships and existential nihilism, Guide benefits greatly from not just Anand's lead turn but also a career-best performance by Waheeda Rahman as an unhappily married woman who crosses the protagonist's path.

    While the Vijay Anand-directed feature lacks the merry song-and-dance numbers of Anand's previous filmography, composer SD Burman and lyricist Shailendra unite for some classic poetically introspective songs playing out in the backdrop of grand set pieces laden with magical realism. Decades since its release, the legacy of Guide lives on among Bollywood worshippers with even Cannes Film Festival screening it after 42 years in 2007.

  • 10 Best Kiara Advani Movies and Where to Stream Them

    10 Best Kiara Advani Movies and Where to Stream Them

    Kiara Advani’s 2014 debut Fugly was not particularly memorable but within a decade, she has established herself as a bankable Bollywood heroine with credits in hits like Kabir Singh and Shershaah. If you too are a fan of the actress who will next be seen in Don 3, have a look at our curated list of her best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Kiara Advani’s filmography?

    You can watch most of Kiara Advani’s best movies on Netflix and Prime Video although Hotstar also offers a few streaming options. Netflix, in particular, is a good place to start, as Advani has also fronted some of the streaming platform’s Indian originals like the thriller drama Guilty and the erotic anthology Lust Stories. She also had a brief cameo as herself in the Netflix original comedy series Masaba Masaba.

    Once you’ve got your Kiara Advani watchlist sorted out, have a look at some of her best cinematic highlights.

    Early beginnings and Lust Stories breakout

    Kiara Advani made her screen debut in the Akshay Kumar-produced crime comedy Fugly (you can rent it on Apple, YouTube or Google Play). While the movie polarised critics, Advani’s sophomore feature was a stronger effort with the sports biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story. With Indian thriller veteran Neeraj Pandey directing and the late Sushant Singh Rajput essaying the role of the titular character, the blockbuster found her playing Dhoni’s wife Sakshi Rawat.

    But still, Advani needed a role that made her truly standout instead of just being assigned to a formulaic love interest. This is where Karan Johar’s acclaimed segment in Lust Stories came into play. Addressing the conservative taboos around the sexual lives of married Indian women, Advani plays a newlywed bride who navigates her way through a healthy sexual life and the joy of self-pleasure.

    Lust Stories paved the way for Advani’s future female-centric dramas like Guilty in which she played a singer caught in the midst of a sexual harassment scandal and Indoo Ki Jawaani that found her starring as a Ghaziabad girl discovering online dating.

    Continued commercial breakthrough with Kabir Singh and Shershaah

    While Lust Stories established Advani among the critics, it was the controversial tragiromance Kabir Singh that made her a household name. A Hindi remake of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Arjun Reddy, Kabir Singh starred Shahid Kapoor as the titular antihero, an alcoholic romantic with anger issues. Advani played Preeti, the girl who falls for Kabir with utmost devotion. But when their love story can’t reach a happy ending, the romance turns toxic. Upon release, Kabir Singh broke box-office records and brought Advani further fame even though the film’s particularly toxic traits did draw much discussion and debate on glorification of morally grey heroes.

    A relatively less toxic romantic drama to watch in Advani’s career is the real-life Indian Army martyr Captain Vikram Batra in the war biopic Shershaah. The movie is notable for its gruelling exploration of the Kargil War and one soldier’s journey through love and patriotism. Siddharth Malhotra essays the lead role while Kiara Advani plays his love interest, a story that had real-life consequences with Malhotra and Advani marrying soon afterwards.

    Why is Lust Stories Kiara Advani’s best movie to watch?

    Shershaah and MS Dhoni come to a close second for their overall merits but the short film from Lust Stories is Advani’s best work in terms of her taking centre stage. The message of the film, coupled with the actress’s earnest portrayal of a sexually prude woman continue to make it a timely watch.

  • 30 Best Konkona Sen Sharma Movies and TV Shows and Where to Watch Them

    30 Best Konkona Sen Sharma Movies and TV Shows and Where to Watch Them

    Konkona Sen Sharma had already showcased a chameleon-like versatility in Hindi and Bengali cinema. But with A Death In The Gunj and a segment in Lust Stories 2, the actress has also proven her dramatic capabilities as a director. If you are a new recruit to the Konkona Sen Sharma fandom, we have got the ultimate list for you. Have a glance at her best screen credits along with a handy guide on where to stream them.

    Where can you stream Konkona Sen Sharma’s best movies?

    Most of Konkona Sen Sharma’s older movies can be streamed on Prime Video and Netflix while Hotstar and Jio Cinema might also offer some streaming options. You can watch most of her post-pandemic movies on Netflix while her first OTT series (Mumbai Diaries) and directorial debut (A Death in the Gunj) can be streamed on Prime Video. Her sophomore series Killer Soup is a Netflix original.

    Konkona Sen Sharma’s Career At A Glance

    She made her debut in Bengali cinema with the film Ek Je Aachhe Kanya in 2000, a tough role for a debutant considering Sharma was playing a mentally fragile teenager unhealthily obsessed with her neighbour.

    In Hindi cinema, Sharma took on supporting parts in movies like the Othello adaptation Omkara and the dark comedy 7 Khoon Maaf, she gained initial acclaim for the social satire Page 3. In Madhur Bhandarkar’s cult favourite, she portrayed a journalist navigating the murky world of tabloid reporting with conviction.

    Her 2000s highlights also included the romantic anthology Life In A Metro, starring alongside the late Irrfan Khan as a heartwarming but realistic couple. Apart from mainstream performances like that of a struggling actress in Zoya Akhtar’s directorial debut Luck By Chance and that of an enigmatic witch in the neo-Gothic drama Ek Thi Daayan, Sharma has been a mainstay in niche Hindi and Bengali productions.

    A prime case in point is Mr and Mrs Iyer, where she essayed the role of a Tamil Brahmin woman stranded amidst communal tensions, delivering a performance that was both poignant and powerful. Returning to her Bengali roots, her collaboration with acclaimed directors like Rituparno Ghosh and Aparna Sen further solidified her reputation as one of the finest actors of her generation.

    Whether it was portraying the complexities of relationships in films like the coming-of-age drama Wake Up Sid or delving into the dark recesses of the human psyche in the fact-based crime drama Talvar, Sharma’s performances continue to be venerated among audiences craving a contemporary new wave in Bollywood.

    While she has not exactly been a crowd-puller for any big-budget solo ventures, the actress has effortlessly transitioned to the OTT space getting top billing in Prime Video’s medical drama series Mumbai Diaries, Neeraj Ghaywan’s segment in the Netflix anthology Ajeeb Daastans, and playing one of the titular characters in the Netflix feminist drama Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare.

    Her performance in Ajeeb Daastans drew immense critical acclaim with praise directed to Ghawyan’s sensitive direction and Sharma’s portrayal of a Dalit androgynous woman in love with her co-worker. The raves just proved that Sharma still has what it takes to challenge herself and explore new narratives.

    Why is A Death in the Gunj Konkona Sen Sharma’s best movie to watch?

    Konkona Sen Sharma’s English-Hindi-Bengali directorial debut was an atmospheric period thriller, bolstered by a talented ensemble including Vikrant Massey, Kalki Koelchin, Jim Sarbh and many more. Exploring a dysfunctional family but devoid of any forced melodrama, A Death In The Gunj allows its actress-turned-director to tap into human emotions while also building enough suspense for the titular murder. Her short on sexual voyeurism in Lust Stories 2 is also impressive but it’s her first stint as director that takes the top spot.

  • 15 Best Jr NTR Movies and Where To Watch Them

    15 Best Jr NTR Movies and Where To Watch Them

    N.T. Rama Rao Junior, or Jr. NTR as he’s more popularly known, is a Telugu superstar with over 30 lead roles to his name. Have a glimpse at the RRR hero’s best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you stream the best Jr. NTR movies?

    Hotstar, Prime Video, and Sun NXT offer a lot of streaming options although you can watch Jr. NTR’s most popular title RRR on Netflix.

    Jr. NTR’s Career at a Glance

    When your grandfather is an actor and filmmaker with over 300 films to his name and your father too is an actor and producer, you seem to be destined to enter the film industry. This is what happened in the case of Jr. NTR who began making his mark as a child artiste in Telugu movies.

    An early career highlight was his lead turn as the Hindu god Ram in Ramayanam, an adaptation of the religious epic Ramayan notably featuring an ensemble made out of only child actors.

    However, it was his breakthrough as a lead actor in the 2001 romantic drama Ninnu Choodalani that marked the beginning of a stellar journey. Known for his dynamic screen presence and effortless portrayal of diverse characters, Jr. NTR quickly became a force to reckon with in the Telugu film industry.

    Jr. NTR's ability to seamlessly transition between intense roles and light-hearted characters is evident in his filmography. Whether it's essaying the role of a righteous young man fighting against injustice in the coming-of-age action drama Student No. 1 or showcasing his comedic timing in Adhurs, he has displayed a remarkable range that resonates with audiences across demographics.

    Moreover, his performance in films like the fantasy-action comedy Yamadonga showcased his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional roles, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success. The 2007 hit found him starring in a double role as an orphaned thief and Yama, the Hindu god of death.

    His collaborations with blockbuster auteur like SS Rajamouli have resulted in gargantuan successes such as the 2003 action film Simhadri and the 2022 Oscar-winning period epic RRR, where Jr. NTR's portrayal of powerful and charismatic characters garnered widespread acclaim.

    RRR’s unprecedented popularity among global audiences paved a new career highlight for Jr. NTR who even got to attend award ceremonies like Golden Globes and the Oscars. While the Globe and Oscar-winning song “Naatu Naatu” didn’t find him sharing his foot-tapping chemistry with co-star Ram Charan, the Telugu star clearly made his presence felt in Hollywood.

    Now, as he stars in the upcoming pan-Indian action drama Devara and plans to make his Hindi-language debut with the YRF Spy Cinematic Universe sequel War 2, Jr. NTR is only getting started.

    Why is RRR Jr. NTR’s best movie to watch?

    Unabashedly over-the-top and self-aware in its grandiose action theatrics, RRR honours overlooked freedom fighters in India’s colonial history while paving a new chapter in contemporary blockbuster filmmaking. Fresh off the success of his two-part Baahubali franchise, SS Rajamouli united Telugu titans Jr. NTR and Ram Charan as Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitaram Raju, two revolutionaries who bring down the oppressive British empire to its knees (with a lot of explosions, gravity-defying hijinks, and an armada of CGI-rendered animals).

    Instead of nitpicking any rational physics or historical accuracy, RRR makes for a highly entertaining watch with the triumphant song-and-dance number “Naatu Naatu” as an added bonus. Going through physical workouts to play the valiant co-hero, Jr. NTR has never looked this tougher and never danced this better. RRR will be remembered for its high-octane stunt choreography and its standout song which achieved the rare feat of India winning at the Oscars.

  • 25 Best Vikram Movies and Where to Watch Them

    25 Best Vikram Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Kennedy John Victor or Chiyaan Vikram as his fans call him, has endured as one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars since the 2000s. The actor is in his 50s now but he continues delivering hits like Mahaan and the Ponniyin Selavan franchise. If you too are a fan of the Tamil megastar’s films, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best Vikram movies to watch along with a handy guide to stream them.

    Where can you stream Vikram’s best movies?

    Prime Video and Sun NXT are leading platforms to watch Vikram’s best movies while some of them can also be viewed on Netflix. You can watch some of his older movies on ZEE5, Hotstar, Lionsgate Play, Aha, Eros Now, Hungama and other OTT services.

    Vikram’s Career at a Glance

    Vikram embarked on his acting journey with the Tamil film En Kadhal Kanmani in 1990. However, it was his breakout role in Bala's Sethu (1999) that marked the onset of his illustrious career.

    Vikram's commitment to his roles is evident in his ability to transform himself for each character he portrays. Known for his willingness to undergo physical and emotional changes, he has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

    One of Vikram's most acclaimed performances came in Shankar's psychological thriller Anniyan (2005), where he portrayed three distinct characters, showcasing his remarkable range as an actor. His portrayal of a morally transient man with multiple personality disorder earned him widespread praise and further solidified his position as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema.

    Vikram's versatility is evident in his diverse choice of roles spanning various genres. From action-packed thrillers like Saamy (2003) to emotionally charged dramas like Pithamagan (2003), he effortlessly embodies a wide spectrum of characters. His portrayal of an ostracised grave digger in Pithamagan earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor.

    In addition to his acting prowess, Vikram is known for his inclination towards pushing the boundaries of Tamil cinema. Collaborating with visionary directors, he has explored unconventional storylines in films like I (2015) and Raavanan (2010), showcasing both his acting prowess and willingness to take risks in his craft.

    The former reunited Vikram with Anniyan filmmaker Shankar with the actor playing a mild-mannered bodybuilder who gets disfigured after making multiple enemies along the way. With hauntingly realistic prosthetics and Vikram undergoing a vigorous physical training, I channeled the actor’s emotional prowess to heartbreaking levels.

    Raavanan, on the other hand, united him with Tamil auteur Mani Ratnam. A dark and gritty reimagining of the Hindu epic Ramayan, Raavanan found Vikram playing a forest rebel vigilante who abducts a policeman’s wife (Aishwarya Rai) to seek revenge for his oppressed community. Interestingly, the movie’s Hindi counterpart Raavan found him playing the authoritarian policeman this time.

    Ratnam later paired Rai and Vikram together for his two-part period epic Ponniyin Selavan. Based on the classic Tamil novel series of the same name, Ponniyin Selavan followed Vikram as Chola emperor Aditha Karikalan as he gets embroiled in a royal conspiracy in medieval South India. Both movies set new box-office records for the industry and continued Vikram’s ascent to stardom.

    Why is Mahaan Vikram’s Best Movie to Watch?

    A rousing father-son story doubling as a gangster drama, Karthik Subbaraj’s Mahaan was an effective comeback for Vikram in all senses. The actor embraced his aging persona while also balancing his timeless charm as he plays a teacher who changes his life around after leaving an oppressive system and his caring family. Years later, when his Gandhian police officer of a son (played by Vikram’s own son Dhruv Vikram) wages war against him, matters get interesting enough for a memorable viewing experience.

  • 50 Best Naseeruddin Shah Movies and Where to Watch Them

    50 Best Naseeruddin Shah Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Naseeruddin Shah has left his mark as the poster boy of ‘80s-era parallel cinema and as the go-to character actor in many a mainstream Bollywood hit. If you are a fan of Shah’s versatile work, then have a look at the maestro’s best movies along with a guide on where to stream them.

    Naseeruddin Shah’s Career at a Glance

    Born in 1950, in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, Shah embarked on his acting journey with a remarkable debut in Shyam Benegal's endearing social drama Nishant (1975). His foray into cinema signaled the emergence of a formidable talent capable of embodying a diverse array of characters with conviction and authenticity.

    Throughout his career spanning over four decades, Shah has fearlessly embraced challenging roles across a spectrum of genres. In the cult satirical comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), he delivered a memorable performance as a photographer embroiled in a political conspiracy, seamlessly blending humor with social commentary.

    Shah's versatility shone through in his portrayal of the troubled protagonist in Masoom (1983), a poignant exploration of family dynamics and forgiveness. His nuanced performance of a man struggling to father his illegitimate child, elicited both empathy and admiration from audiences and critics alike.

    In the realm of parallel cinema, Shah's collaborations with visionary filmmakers yielded cinematic gems that continue to resonate with audiences. Sparsh (1980), directed by Sai Paranjpye, showcased Shah's ability to delve into the intricacies of human relationships with sensitivity and depth. His portrayal of a visually impaired principal challenged societal perceptions and earned him widespread acclaim.

    Paar (1984), directed by Goutam Ghose, provided Shah with another opportunity to showcase his acting prowess. Set against the backdrop of rural India, the film depicted the struggles of a couple oppressed by the feudal system. Shah's portrayal of a disillusioned cart puller captured the essence of despair and resilience with remarkable authenticity.

    Shah's commitment to excellence extended beyond traditional Bollywood fare, as evidenced by his collaboration with auteurs such as Govind Nihalani (the anti-caste legal drama Aakrosh), Gulzar (the divorce-centric romantic drama Ijaazat), and Saeed Akhtar Mirza (the urban angst-ridden character study Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai).

    In the 2000s, Shah made a detour to Hollywood, playing Captain Nemo in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. While the movie polarised critics and audiences, an aging Shah continued to shine in supporting roles back home.

    For instance, the sports drama Iqbal (2005) found him playing a washed-out alcoholic cricketer who becomes an unlikely mentor to the titular protagonist. In the crime thriller A Wednesday (2008), directed by Neeraj Pandey, Shah delivered a riveting performance as a common man driven to extreme measures in the face of injustice. His portrayal of the unnamed protagonist resonated with audiences, elevating the film to cult status.

    At the same time, old age didn’t stop Shah from taking on morally complex lead roles in adult dramas. The best example in this case is the Ishqiya franchise in which he played a poetry-writing goon with an affinity for twisted romances. The Dirty Picture similarly found him playing a casanova actor in the sleazy ‘80s film industry.

    Why is Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro Naseeruddin Shah’s best movie to watch?

    Revolving around the exploits of two photojournalists uncovering corruption in the city, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro is a satire that somehow stays relevant with every decade. Shah offers a humorous lead performance along with perfectly-cast co-stars like Pankaj Kapur, Om Puri, and Satish Shah. The film bombed at the box-office but its dark social commentary coupled with slapstick goofiness makes it a cult favourite today.

    Where can you stream Naseeruddin Shah’s filmography?

    You can stream most of Shah’s works on Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, Shemaaro, Jio Cinema, and VI Movies. Arthouse fans can stream many of his critically acclaimed parallel cinema features on Mubi.

  • 30 Best Nagarjuna Movies and Where to Stream Them

    30 Best Nagarjuna Movies and Where to Stream Them

    For decades now, Nagarjuna has endured as one of the most bankable stars in Telugu movies. If you are a diehard fan of the Mass and Don actor, then we have got the definitive list of the best Nagarjuna movies along with a handy guide on where to stream them.

    Where can you watch Nagarjuna’s filmography?

    Hotstar, Sun NXT, ZEE5, Vi Movies, Voot, Eros Now, Prime Video and Netflix are ideal platforms to go on a Nagarjuna binge watch session.

    Nagarjuna’s Career at a Glance

    Nagarjuna hails from a prestigious film family, with his father, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, being a legendary actor. His own son Akkikkeni Nagarjuna has gone on to be a popular Telugu actor. But Nagarjuna has managed to carve his own niche as a star capable of leading action thrillers, romantic comedies, and slice-of-life dramas.

    Debuting in 1986 with the Telugu film Vikram, directed by V. Madhusudhan Rao, Nagarjuna quickly gained attention for his charismatic screen presence and dynamic dance moves. However, his breakthrough came with Majnu (1987), where he portrayed a captivating young man entangled in a love triangle. This success propelled him to stardom, laying the groundwork for a prolific career.

    Throughout his journey, Nagarjuna has effortlessly portrayed a wide range of characters across genres. From romantic dramas like Geethanjali (1989) and Ninne Pelladatha (1996) to action-packed thrillers such as Siva (1989) and Don (2007), and intense dramas like Annamayya (1997) and Manam (2014), he has garnered acclaim and adoration.

    Beyond acting, Nagarjuna has made significant contributions as a producer through his company, Annapurna Studios, nurturing emerging talent in the industry. His ventures into Hindi cinema with films like Ram Gopal Varma’s cult crime classic Shiva (1990) and the Amitabh Bachchan-fronted epic romance Khuda Gawah (1992) expanded his fan base, establishing him as a pan-Indian star.

    One of his most recent Hindi hits included a superpowered divine being in Brahmastra Part One Shiva, the first installment of the Ranbir Kapoor-led Astraverse. Despite a brief role, Nagarjuna proved how despite his leading man status, he can often share screen space with other rising stars.

    A great example of Nagarajuna’s later roles is similarly in Oopiri, the Telugu remake of the French drama The Intouchables. Playing a wheelchair bound, introverted millionaire, Nagarjuna seamlessly sunk his teeth into the role while sharing impeccable chemistry with a younger star like Karthi who plays his free-spirited caretaker.

    And at the same time, Nagarjuna still lives up to his hero status in his 60s with a recent case in point being the military thriller Wild Dog in which the Telugu industry stalwarts plays a National Investigative Agency operative leading a black-ops team. The man who played the rowdy college student in Shiva still has what it takes to cook up a storm.

    Why is Shiva/Siva Nagarjuna’s best movie to watch?

    While many of Nagarjuna’s mass entertainers are exciting to watch, it’s the Ram Gopal Varma cult hit Shiva (Hindi)/Siva (Telugu) that adds a unique depth to mainstream Indian action. Set in the context of gang violence in a college, Nagarjuna plays a violent student who gets embroiled in a larger criminal conspiracy. With subversive introspection on youth and masculinity, Shiva has only aged well with time for both Hindi and Telugu audiences. The scene with Nagarjuna’s Shiva beating his adversaries to pulp with nothing but a bicycle chain wrapped around his fists, has gone down as one of the most memorable visuals of ‘90s-era cinema in the country.

  • 15 Best Anushka Sharma Movies and Where to Watch Them

    15 Best Anushka Sharma Movies and Where to Watch Them

    Anushka Sharma has had an interesting career, from having a mainstream acting debut in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi to producing critically acclaimed ventures like the Netflix psychological horror-drama Qala. If you’re an Anushka Sharma fan, have a look at our picks for her best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Anushka Sharma’s filmography?

    Mainstream OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are abundant in Anushka Sharma’s romances, comedies, and dramas. You can watch some of her other movies on other streaming services like ZEE5, Eros Now, Jio Cinema, and Hotstar.

    Still confused on what Anushka Sharma movie to watch? Let’s have a closer look at her career.

    Anushka Sharma’s Career at a Glance

    Born in Ayodhya and raised in Bangalore, Anushka Sharma started out in her career with modeling for late fashion designer Wendell Rodricks. As for her acting break, Sharma was only 20 years old when she starred alongside Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan in Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008).

    Her portrayal of a vivacious young woman opposite a loving but meek husband (Shah Rukh Khan) garnered widespread acclaim and marked the beginning of a stellar career. The movie had its fair share of heartwarming drama and goofy comedy with Khan changing his identity as a cooler, more fashionable dancer to woo his wife.

    Throughout her career spanning over a decade, Sharma has fearlessly embraced diverse roles, challenging stereotypes and pushing boundaries. In Band Baaja Baarat (2010), directed by Maneesh Sharma, she delivered a breakthrough performance as a feisty wedding planner, earning her a Filmfare Award for Best Actress. Her infectious energy and natural charisma endeared her to audiences, establishing her as a talent to watch.

    Her effortless charm in romantic comedies could be seen with roles in the John Tucker Must Die remake Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl and Zoya Akhtar’s ensemble travel comedy Dil Dhadakne Do (paired opposite her Band Baaja Baaraat co-star Ranveer Singh in each of the two films). More emotional dramas like Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil showcased her serious skills, sharing screenspace with talented ensembles led by Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor and more.

    Sharma's versatility as a lead actress actor came to the fore in films like NH 10 (2015), a gritty thriller that showcased her range and depth. In the film, Sharma portrayed a woman on a quest for justice in the face of adversity, delivering a riveting performance that earned her widespread praise.

    Her talents as a lead could also be seen in the horror-comedy Phillauri in which she played a friendly ghost in a Punjabi village. Conversely, she delivered a spine-chilling turn as a possessed woman in the gritty horror Pari.

    Both Phillauri and Pari marked Sharma’s early stint in production with her company Clean Slate Filmz. With future production credits like Anvita Dutt’s feminist horrors Bulbbul and Qala along with the Prime Video neo-noir series Pataal Lok and the Netflix crime thrillers Kohrra and Mai: A Mother’s Rage, Sharma has been instrumental in championing innovative storytelling, bold narratives, and supporting underrated talent.

    Why is NH-10 Anushka Sharma’s best movie to watch?

    While loosely adapted from the Kelly Reilly and Michael Fassbender-led thriller Eden Lake, NH 10 stars Anushka Sharma as a woman who bears witness to a heinous honour killing by a gang. With her husband dead and the gangsters pursuing her, director Navdeep Singh builds an eerie chillness with Sharma’s protagonist fighting all odds to survive. Tackling on themes like patriarchy and urban vigilantism, NH-10 marked Anushka Sharma’s stunning debut as a producer as well as a leading actress who can hold her own.

  • 50 Best Mohanlal Movies and Where to Watch Them

    50 Best Mohanlal Movies and Where to Watch Them

    He might have reached his 60s now but age isn’t stopping Mohanlal from reigning supreme in Malayalam cinema. If you love the veteran actor’s multi-decade career, we have got the perfect list for you to glance at his best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

    Where can you watch Mohanlal’s filmography?

    Some of Mohanlal’s recent movies like Drishyam 2 were released directly on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video. As for his other theatrical releases, one can watch them in varied OTT services like Prime, Netflix, Hotstar, Sun NXT, Aha, Eros Now, and Lionsgate Play.

    Mohanlal’s Career at a Glance

    Mohanlal Viswanathan, widely known as Mohanlal, stands as an illustrious figure in Indian cinema, particularly in the Malayalam film industry. Born on May 21, 1960, in Kerala, India, Mohanlal's journey to cinematic stardom is a testament to his unparalleled talent, versatility, and dedication.

    Mohanlal's entry into the world of acting was marked by his debut in the Malayalam film Manjil Virinja Pookkal in 1980, directed by Fazil. Although his initial roles went largely unnoticed, it was his portrayal of antagonist characters that caught the audience's attention. With his impeccable acting skills and natural flair, Mohanlal swiftly rose to prominence, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after actors in the industry.

    Throughout his illustrious career spanning over four decades, Mohanlal has delivered an extensive range of performances across various genres, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an actor. Whether it be intense dramas, romantic comedies, or action-packed thrillers, Mohanlal's ability to immerse himself into diverse characters has earned him widespread acclaim and adoration.

    One of Mohanlal's most iconic roles came in the 1986 crime drama Rajavinte Makan, directed by Thampi Kannanthanam. His portrayal of Vincent Gomas, a character driven by vengeance, garnered critical acclaim and further solidified his position as a powerhouse performer.

    Subsequently, Mohanlal continued to captivate audiences with memorable performances in films like the feel-good musical drama Bharatham (1991), the Indo-French psychological dance-centric thriller Vanaprastham (1999), and the mind-twisting crime drama Drishyam (2013), each showcasing his unparalleled acting prowess.

    Age is just a number for the Malayalam superstar as he continues to excel as a leading man in recent hits like the sequel to Drishyam, and the epic action period drama Malaikottai Vaaliban (2024).

    Beyond his on-screen brilliance, Mohanlal has also ventured into various other aspects of filmmaking. He has successfully donned the hat of a producer with his production company, Pranavam Arts, and has also exhibited his directorial skills in films like the 2024 epic fantasy Barroz that finds Mohanlal also playing the titular character, a guardian of Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama’s treasure.

    Mohanlal's contributions to Indian cinema extend beyond the borders of Malayalam cinema. He has made notable appearances in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films, winning accolades and admiration from audiences across the country. His ability to seamlessly adapt to different languages and cultures further underscores his status as a truly versatile actor.

    Why is Manichithrathazhu Mohanlal’s best movie to watch?

    Manichithrathazhu is a cult horror-comedy that went on to be remade in numerous languages like Tamil (Chandramukhi) and Hindi (Bhool Bhulaiyaa). But none of these remakes match Mohanlal’s original that is effective with subtleties in its comedies and a genuine atmospheric chillness echoes with its premise of a woman being possessed by a dancer’s spirit. Mohanlal plays a psychiatrist intent on solving the mystery connected to a spooky, old bungalow. There’s a lot to uncover in this hilarious but profound horror that continues to entertain Mohanlal fans to this day.