There are plenty of genres to look forward to when it comes to TV releases in 2024. While many planned projects were shifted due to last year’s Writers’ Guild Strike, the release calendar right now offers a lot of promise.

Cop Universe and Mirzapur S3: What Indian TV has to offer

Not much is known about Indian OTT releases at the moment but hype is bound to be generated by the viral Prime Video gangster drama Mirzapur that returns after four years with a third season. January 2024 will also bear witness to Killer Soup, a Netflix crime thriller from the mind of Neeraj Pandey that stars Manoj Bajpayee in a double role.

Meanwhile, Raveena Tandon stars in the Hotstar original Karmaa is Calling, the Indian remake of Revenge. Another highlight from January will be Indian Police Force, a cop drama starring Siddharth Malhotra, Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty, that will serve as another chapter in Rohit Shetty’s blockbuster Cop Universe movie series.

From Echo to X-Men 97: What Marvel has to Offer

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is gearing up to open the year with Echo, a spin-off focused on the titular heroine after she was first introduced as a vigilante in Hawkeye. Apart from fleshing out a new character, the show is also worth getting excited about because it marks the return of Wilson Fisk (Kingpin) and Matt Murdoch (Daredevil) from the cult Netflix hit Daredevil.

In early summer, Marvel also plans to release the animated series X-Men ‘97 on Disney+, a watershed moment in the MCU that will connect the 90s series’ team of mutants with the current phase of the franchise.

From True Detective to House of the Dragon: The year of new seasons

Some of the most anticipated follow-up seasons this year include a fair share of HBO shows. Prime examples include the anthology thriller True Detective that stars Jodie Foster in a fourth season focusing on the disappearance of eight men at an Alaska research station. HBO’s highly successful Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon  also returns with its sophomore season, promising more dragons and more bloodshed!

Talking about anthologies, Ryan Murphy’s FX period drama Feud gets an all-new second season titled Feud: Capote vs the Swans. With a star-studded cast led by Naomi Watts, Demi Moore and more, the old Hollywood narrative promises to be as gripping as 2017’s Feud: Bette and Joan.

The Last Airbender, Fallout and more: The Promising New Shows of 2024

From Apple TV+ to HBO, all major studios are ready to offer brand new series for the awards race. The former has invested a lot in Masters of the Air, a World War II aviation drama starring Austin Butler and produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg. As for HBO, their money is on Robert Downey Jr who will be caked up in prosthetics for playing multiple antagonists in the Vietnam War black comedy The Sympathizer.

Elsewhere on Prime Video, Donald Glover and Maya Erskine offer their own twisted spin on Mr. & Mrs. Smith, a TV remake of the original movie starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The OTT service is also expecting high viewership for its anticipated Fallout adaptation, a dystopian action comedy inspired by the video game franchise of the same name.

Meanwhile, fresh off the success of its live-action take on One Piece, Netflix eyes another animated series to adapt. This time it is Avatar The Last Airbender, a direct remake of the cult Nickelodeon series.

Here are all the shows we can't wait to watch this year!

Writer. Director. Music composer. Diehard Shakespeare fan. Vishal Bhardwaj is many things rolled into one. The Maqbool and Haider filmmaker has carved a niche for himself in the crime drama genres since the 2000s. But that doesn’t mean that he shies away from other genres.

His shockingly brilliant debut Makdee, for instance, was a children’s horror featuring Shabana Azmi as a goosebump-inducing witch. Bhardwaj’s Indianised Shakespearean adaptations might again seem like conspiracy thrillers on the surface but they have a lot of underlying social themes. Haider is a brilliant example as the revenge drama delves into the politically turbulent situation of the Indian state of Kashmir.

Here’s a glimpse at his career so far.

Bhardwaj’s Shakespeare trilogy (Maqbool, Omkara, Haider)

An English literature student from Delhi University’s Hindu College, Vishal Bhardwaj has been a dedicated Shakespeare aficionado. His appreciation for the Bard doesn’t just lead to mere mimicking of his tragedies but instead, Bhardwaj has added a raw, gritty Indian touch to his Shakespeare adaptations. Maqbool took Macbeth’s political crisis in the midst of the Mumbai underworld while Othello’s tale of infidelity and identity politics set the stage for Omkara, a bloody tale set in the criminal hinterland of Uttar Pradesh.

Haider, similarly found his frequent collaborator Shahid Kapoor playing the titular lead of Hamlet. Indian politics and family dynamics mingle in this snow-covered tale of Kashmir, complete with Kapoor holding a skull and having his own Hamlet-style “to be or not to be” moment.

A Maestro of Dark Comedy (Kaminey, 7 Khoon Maaf, Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola)

Despite his directorial debut Makdee being a family-friendly horror, most of Bhardwaj’s filmography is heavy on adult content. But despite the gruesome violence and sensual affairs, Bhardwaj also relies on a Coen-esque sense of dark comedy in most of his works. Kaminey which found Shahid Kapoor in a double role as a streetsmart gangster and his naive twin brother, played out as a comedy of errors with caricatured portrayals of criminals and politicians.

7 Khoon Maaf which drew inspiration from a Ruskin Bond novella played around with an amusing concept of Priyanka Chopra’s protagonist being a woman, charming multiple men as her husbands and killing them on the way. Each dark story of her husband brings out Bhardwaj’s eye for observational satire.

Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola, on the other hand, is a full-fledged satirical comedy even throwing in some memorably surreal elements like a thrilling alcoholic flight sequence and a rose pink-coloured buffalo. But Bhardwaj’s politics again spring up with the director commenting on workers’ rights, the perils of industrialisation, and Maoist rebellions in this laugh riot.

Why is Haider Vishal Bhardwaj’s best movie?

It’s hard to accord the top title to a single Vishal Bhardwaj movie, considering how most of his work is worthy of cult status. The same can be said even for films that he has only written or composed music for, like Ishqiya and Satya. But Haider still showcases the zenith of Bhardwaj’s career, with its hard-hitting performances and surprisingly relevant take on Hamlet. Shifting the setting from medieval Denmark to contemporary Kashmir, Bhardwaj’s violent revenge drama offers a career-best performance from Shahid Kapoor while the auteur bestows some of his best-written dialogues to convey the protagonist’s descent into madness. Kay Kay Menon and Tabu are equally menacing playing his uncle and mother respectively.

Where can you stream Vishal Bhardwaj’s filmography?

Bhardwaj’s only Netflix original so far is the spy thriller Khufiya which starred his recurring screen muse Tabu. Most of his other theatrical releases can also be streamed on Netflix, Prime Video and Hotstar.

As the new year kicks off, India gears up for some highly anticipated theatrical releases both from within the multiple regions of the country and Hollywood. Here’s a glimpse at the release calendar so far.

From Fighter to Kalki: To New Beginnings

Many new cinematic franchises will be born this year, from Bollywood’s Fighter franchise to Telugu superstar Junior NTR’s next project being titled Devara Part 1.

Starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone as Indian Air Force pilots, Fighter is being touted as an Indian counterpart to Top Gun with director Siddharth Anand hoping to start a franchise of aviation-driven action thrillers. As for Devara, not much is known about the April release but its promotional material implies Junior NTR to be taking charge in a period action epic with a swords-and-sandal setting.

One of the most highly anticipated releases this year is also the sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 - AD, which had garnered buzz last year already at San Diego Comic Con. Pan-Indian star Prabhas leads the dystopian superhero action flick along with industry heavyweights like Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and his Baahubali co-star Rana Daggubatti.

From Pushpa 2 to Dune 2: The Sequels continue

Apart from new franchises, 2024 will also bear witness to a multitude of sequels and spinoffs. While Hollywood is on a lull with its MCU and DCEU offerings this year, many alternate chapters are worth getting hyped about.

Examples include Deadpool 3 and Dune: Part Two (both of which were delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike), the Lady Gaga-led musical sequel to Joker, Godzilla and King Kong’s second pairing in Godzilla x Kong: New Empire, Tom Hardy’s third outing as Eddie Brock in Venom 3, and a new chapter in the Planet of the Apes saga.

Even the animated format has some exciting sequels to look forward to, from Dreamworks’ Kung Fu Panda 4 to Disney’s Inside Out 2.

At the same time, this is also the year for new chapters within existing franchises. The void of MCU releases is being filled with other Marvel adaptations within Sony’s own cinematic universe. This will kick off with Madame Web’s release in February, which promises to deliver web-spinning action from not just the titular actor but also many other alternate universe wall-crawlers. Spider-Man’s menacing villain Kraven the Hunter also gets his titular cinematic adventure with Aaron Taylor-Johnson offering an antiheroic take on the character.

As for closer home, Telugu star Allu Arjun will return to play the eponymous character in Pushpa: The Rule, an action potboiler that will conclude the story of 2021’s Pushpa: The Rise.

In Bollywood, Ajay Devgn returns to play the “super”cop Singham in Singham Again, another high-octane chapter in Rohit Shetty’s Cop Universe movies. Horror comedy in Hindi cinema will also see the sequels to some of the genre's biggest hits like Stree 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.

Coming to Tamil Cinema, Kamal Haasan reunites with writer-director Shankar for Indian 2. The political thriller is a much-awaited sequel that comes more than two decades after the 1996 release of Indian.

Rajinikanth to Mohanlal: The Year of Superstars

Many of India’s biggest actors are eyeing multi-genre projects this year. Tamil star Rajinikant is set to open the year with the sports drama Lal Salaam, a release that will be quickly followed up by Dhanush and Malayalam superstar Mohanlal in the period action epics Captain Miller and Malaikottai Vaaliban. Junior NTR and Prabhas’s efforts in the Telugu industry have already been mentioned while Bollywood’s top heroine Alia Bhatt aims to wow audiences with the prison break drama Jigra.

Safe to say, this is going to be one happy new year!

Mahesh Bhatt is more than just Alia Bhatt’s father and the producer of numerous romantic and erotic thrillers in the 2000s and the 2010s. Much before his legacy as a stalwart Bollywood producer, Bhatt emerged as one of the industry’s foremost directors.

From arthouse offerings like the Doordarshan TV movie Daddy (1989) and his breakout hit Saaransh (1984) to commercial potboilers like the romantic musical Aashiqui (1990) and Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi (1991), Bhatt has a multi-genre legacy.

It’s only a pity that when he returned to the director’s chair after decades with his 2020 action thriller Sadak 2 (a sequel to his own 1990 commercial and critical hit), the film failed to make a mark. But still, with his production studio Vishesh Films churning out hits by other directors like Aashiqui 2, Jannat, and Gangster, Bhatt’s legacy in the industry continues.

Bhatt’s 80s success with Arth and Saaransh

Despite his success in the 1980s, Mahesh Bhatt actually started his filmmaking career in the previous decade. But his early 1970s credits like Manzilein Aur Bhi Hai (1974) and Lahu Ke Do Rang (1979) failed to make a mark either among critics or audiences. It was with the gritty romantic drama Arth (1982) that Bhatt could actually establish himself as a writer and director.

Featuring career-defining performances by Shabana Azmi, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, and the late Smita Patil, Bhatt drew upon his own extramarital affair to depict a couple's turbulent relationship. A National Award for Best Actress followed for Azmi while Bhatt earned himself his first Filmfare for Best Director.

Arth’s success paved the way for even more critical acclaim with Saaransh (1984), an equally tragic tale of an elderly couple dealing with the loss of their only son. Anupam Kher, who relied on prosthetics to look older than his age, gave a terrific lead performance that won him a Filmfare while Bhatt won another Filmfare for Best Story. The film was also submitted at India’s official entry to the Oscars but failed to make the cut.

From Aashiqui to Sadak: Bhatt’s dominance in the 1990s

While the 80s showered critical praise on Bhatt’s style of observational realism, the director tried his hand at melodramatic romance and action with 90s-era commercial hits. He got to direct many actors who were starting out in the same decade. This can be understood from his collaborations with the Khans of Bollywood like Aamir Khan, who showcased his romantic charm in Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi (1991) and Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke (1993). Shah Rukh Khan aka SRK also joined forces with Bhatt for Duplicate (1998), one of his many action movies that featured him playing morally grey heroes.

However, the twin highlights of his career at this time were definitely Aashiqui (1990) and Sadak (1991). The former is a romance that is still revered in Bollywood with its timeless love songs that made the career of playback singer Kumar Sanu, music label T-Series, and the composer duo Nadeem-Shravan. As for the action thriller Sadak, Bhatt toyed around concepts from the Martin Scorsese classic Taxi Driver for a movie that remains his highest-grossing credit as director.

Why is Saaransh Mahesh Bhatt’s best movie?

Saaransh is Mahesh Bhatt's best movie due to its emotional storytelling and Anupam Kher's stellar performance. The film addresses profound themes of grief, loss, and societal expectations, showcasing the emotional journey of an elderly couple coping with an unexpected tragedy. Saaransh is still celebrated for its melancholic realism, monologue-rich dialogue, and poignant exploration of human resilience, making it a standout achievement.

Where can you stream Mahesh Bhatt’s filmography?

Prime Video, Netflix, Shemaroo and Hotstar.

Once a decorated adman, R Balki decided to quit the advertising industry and try his hand at filmmaking instead. After making a mark with the critically acclaimed rom-com Cheeni Kum, Balki has had a tumultuous career that has included hits like Paa and Pad Man and critically praised but commercially unsuccessful credits like Shamitabh and Ghoomer.

Even with misfires like his 2023 short in the Netflix anthology Lust Stories 2, the ad guru-turned-director remains as one of contemporary Bollywood’s freshest voices.

Collaborations with Amitabh Bachchan

The Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has been a lucky charm for R Balki, joining forces with him first for his directorial debut Cheeni Kum. Paired alongside Tabu, Bachchan played an aging chef who falls for a younger woman and must face the approval of her shocked father-in-law, who is yet again younger to the protagonist.

Their second pairing Paa was even more successful with Bachchan starring as a young boy with the rare genetic condition of progeria. The bittersweet comedy on his relationship with his protective mother and estranged father, ends on a tear jerking finale that offered one of Bachchan’s most moving performances in recent times. Interestingly, his real-life son Abhishek Bachchan played his on-screen father.

Bachchan and Balki’s third outing together Shamitabh was an experimental love letter to the art of acting but failed to make a mark at the box-office. The movie is still worth revisiting for a memorable dialogue-less lead performance by Tamil star Dhanush while Bachchan also gives his all as an alcoholic mentor figure.

Unconventional Romances

From the age gap romance of Cheeni Kum to a businesswoman and house husband’s pairing in the romantic comedy Ki & Ka, R Balki loves playing around different shades of romance. The former addressed finding love at an old age while the latter was a warm-hearted take on subverted gender relations. His short for Lust Stories 2 similarly touched upon a widowed grandmother urging a young couple to explore their sexually liberated side.

Underdog Stories

An underdog fighting against all odds. This norm has been a recurring motif in Balki’s filmography. This can be seen from Dhanush’s Shamitabh protagonist struggling to make his mark as a mainstream actor even if he has a speech disability. Similarly,  Akshay Kumar’s Laxmikant Chauhan in Pad Man becomes a local entrepreneur after making low-cost sanitary pads, helping the women in his village in the same process.

Be it in the West or back home, the underdog formula works the best in the sports genre. And Balki has tried his hand here too with Ghoomer, a cricket comedy starring Saiyami Kher as a batting prodigy who loses her right arm in an accident. And still with her moral strength and some mentorship by an unconventional coach grittily played by Abhishek Bachchan, she excels as a bowler instead.

Why is Paa R Balki’s best movie?

Paa can be hailed as R Balki’s best work for its unique narrative and compelling performances. The film explores a rare genetic disorder where a child (played by Amitabh Bachchan) ages rapidly. Balki's sensitive storytelling, coupled with Amitabh Bachchan's transformative portrayal, captivates audiences. The film's emotional depth, unconventional plot, and powerful performances contribute to its distinction as R. Balki's standout cinematic achievement.

Where can you stream R Balki’s filmography?

ZEE5, Netflix, Jio Cinema, Prime Video, Voot and Eros Now.

Shyam Benegal, a groundbreaking filmmaker and a key figure in the development of Indian parallel cinema, has made an enduring impact on the industry with his profound narratives, social consciousness, and innovative cinematic techniques. Over the decades, Benegal has consistently challenged traditional norms and explored the complexities of Indian society.

Even at the age of 89, the highly versatile filmmaker continues honing his craft with his latest work being the 2023 biopic Mujib: The Making of a Nation, a joint Indian-Bangladeshi production on Bangladesh’s first President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Early acclaim with Ankur

Benegal's career took a significant turn in the early 1970s with his directorial debut, Ankur (1974). This marked the genesis of a cinematic movement known as the parallel cinema movement, which aimed to provide an alternative to mainstream cinema by addressing social issues and human experiences in a more realistic manner. Ankur garnered critical acclaim and international recognition, establishing Benegal as a filmmaker with a distinctive voice and a commitment to telling stories with social relevance.

A New Wave

A pivotal moment in Shyam Benegal's career was the creation of the "Benegal New Wave," a cinematic movement characterized by films that defied conventions and delved into socio-political issues. Following the success of Ankur, Benegal continued to contribute to this movement with impactful films like Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977). These films not only broke away from mainstream storytelling but also provided a platform for actors and technicians to explore their craft in a more nuanced and meaningful way.

Manthan: India’s first crowdfunded film

The film Manthan holds special significance in Benegal's career due to its unique crowd-funding model. Over five hundred thousand farmers contributed two rupees each to finance the production, exemplifying Benegal's innovative approach to filmmaking and his ability to engage with social issues on multiple levels. Manthan received critical acclaim and became a landmark film in the parallel cinema movement, highlighting Benegal's dedication to socially relevant cinema.

Shyam Benegal's collaboration with renowned playwright and screenwriter Vijay Tendulkar stands out as another milestone in his career. Together, they created impactful films like Nishant and Manthan, shaping the narrative structure of parallel cinema and giving a voice to marginalised communities.

Foray into TV and film education

The historical anthology television series Bharat Ek Khoj (1988), based on Jawaharlal Nehru's book The Discovery of India, represents another noteworthy achievement in Benegal's career. This epic historical drama, spanning 53 episodes, explored the richness of Indian history, culture, and philosophy.

Shyam Benegal's influence on Indian cinema extends beyond his directorial ventures. As a teacher and two-time chairman of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, he played a pivotal role in shaping the education and training of aspiring filmmakers from the late 1960s to early 1970s.

Why is Mandi Shyam Benegal’s best movie?

Mandi, a cinematic gem by Shyam Benegal, is celebrated for its poignant social commentary, stellar ensemble cast, and feminist undertones. Set in a brothel, the film skillfully explores power dynamics and societal complexities, using the microcosm as a metaphor for political landscapes. Strong characterizations, political allegory, and the director's nuanced approach elevate Mandi beyond a traditional social drama.

With meticulous craftsmanship, Benegal blends satire and seriousness, creating a timeless narrative that resonates with audiences. The film stands as a testament to Benegal's directorial prowess, addressing profound themes with authenticity, depth, and enduring relevance.

Where can you stream Shyam Benegal’s filmography?

From mainstream options like Prime Video and ZEE 5 to niche picks like Mubi, Shyam Benegal’s best movies can be accessed on numerous OTT platforms.

Yash Johar might be remembered among Gen-Z as Karan Johar’s late father but he was much more than that. The founder of Bollywood hit factory Dharma Productions, Johar was a visionary film producer whose career spanned several decades.

Here’s a look at his decorated career and filmography.

How did Yash Johar start out?

The Ludhiana-born producer began his foray into the film industry in the 1950s, initially working as a publicist and later as a production assistant to cult classics like Dev Anand’s Guide. His passion for storytelling and an innate understanding of the cinematic craft soon led him to establish his own production company, Dharma Productions, in 1979. The name "Dharma" reflects not only the values and principles associated with Indian culture but also Yash Johar's commitment to creating meaningful and socially relevant cinema.

From Dostana to Kuch Kuch Hota Hai: The films produced by Yash Johar

One of Yash Johar's early successes as a producer was the 1980 film Dostana, directed by Raj Khosla. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, and Zeenat Aman, the film was a critical and commercial success, establishing Johar as a producer with a knack for delivering engaging and entertaining content. This success set the stage for a prolific career that would see the production of numerous iconic films.

Yash Johar’s eye for multi-genre projects was visible in diverse 90s-era productions like the action revenge drama Agneepath that still endures as one of Amitabh Bachchan’s best movies. The Mahesh Bhatt-directed action dramas Gumrah and Duplicate similarly were produced under his Dharma banner. Interestingly enough, Yash Johar was also credited as an associate producer on 1994’s The Jungle Book.

The Legacy of Dharma and Yash Johar

Beyond his commercial successes, Yash Johar was instrumental in launching and nurturing the careers of many Bollywood stars. His keen eye for talent and commitment to providing a platform for new actors and filmmakers helped shape the industry. Actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and directors like his own son Karan Johar found early success under the banner of Dharma Productions, owing much of their careers to Yash Johar's mentorship and guidance.

Yash Johar's legacy extends beyond the films he produced; it encompasses his role as a pioneer in shaping the modern Bollywood landscape. Dharma Productions, under the stewardship of his son Karan Johar, continues to be a powerhouse in the Indian film industry, maintaining Yash Johar's commitment to quality storytelling and cinematic excellence. The values instilled by Yash Johar – integrity, innovation, and a dedication to artistic expression – remain at the core of Dharma Productions, ensuring that his influence endures in every frame produced by the banner.

Even though his last film credit as a producer was Kal Ho Naa Ho, Dharma Productions continues churning out some of contemporary Bollywood’s biggest hits and Karan Johar’s best movies like My Name is Khan and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

Why is Kuch Kuch Hota Hai Yash Johar’s best movie?

An intriguing love triangle. Career-defining performances by Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukherji. Songs shot on lavish sets and exotic foreign locations. And a feel-good blend of drama, romance, and comedy. All rolled up in a directorial debut package by Karan Johar. What’s not to love about Yash Johar’s best 90s-era production!

Where can you stream Yash Johar’s best filmography?

Netflix and Prime Video are the go-to OTT services to stream films produced by Yash Johar.

Satyajit Ray isn’t just an Indian legend but is widely regarded as one of the greatest auteurs in the history of cinema. Born in Calcutta (now Kolkata), the Bengali filmmaker’s impact on Indian cinema and his contribution to world cinema are immeasurable. His unique filmmaking style, career highlights such as winning an Oscar, and his lasting legacy continue to influence filmmakers globally.

The Maestro’s Filmmaking Style

Ray's filmmaking style is characterized by its realism, attention to detail, and profound humanism. He was deeply influenced by Italian neorealism and the works of masters like Vittorio De Sica and Roberto Rossellini. Ray's landmark debut, Pather Panchali (1955), marked the beginning of the Apu Trilogy, a landmark in Indian cinema. The trilogy, which also includes Aparajito (1956) and Apur Sansar (1959), portrays the life of Apu from childhood to adulthood with unparalleled sensitivity and authenticity.

Ray's films are known for their exploration of the human condition, social issues, and intricate character studies. His ability to capture the nuances of everyday life and present them on the screen with remarkable simplicity is a testament to his storytelling prowess. Ray's films often eschew melodrama, relying instead on the strength of the narrative and the authenticity of the performances.

Satyajit Ray’s Oscar Win

In 1992, Ray received an honorary Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to world cinema. The Oscar was a momentous occasion not only for Ray but also for Indian cinema as a whole. It brought global attention to the richness and depth of Indian filmmaking, breaking the stereotype that cinema from the subcontinent was confined to Bollywood musicals. Ray's Oscar win opened doors for a new wave of Indian filmmakers to explore diverse themes and styles.

While the Apu Trilogy and the Oscar were pivotal moments in Ray's career, his filmography is expansive and diverse. Charulata (1964), based on a novella by Rabindranath Tagore, is celebrated for its portrayal of a woman's emotional and intellectual journey in 19th-century Bengal. Jalsaghar (1958), a film exploring the decline of a zamindar (landowner) class, showcases Ray's mastery in creating atmospheric and visually stunning cinema.

A Renaissance Man

Beyond his directorial achievements, Ray's influence extended to various other roles in the film industry. He was a prolific writer, creating memorable characters in his detective series featuring Feluda and the scientist Professor Shonku. Ray was also a music composer, providing soulful and evocative scores for many of his films. His artistic versatility contributed to the holistic development of the cinematic medium in India.

The Legacy of Satyajit Ray

Satyajit Ray's legacy on Indian cinema is immeasurable. He inspired a generation of filmmakers to explore new storytelling techniques and narrative structures. His emphasis on realism and the human experience influenced the parallel cinema movement in India, giving rise to filmmakers like Shyam Benegal and Mrinal Sen. Ray's films have also left an indelible mark on global cinema, influencing directors such as Martin Scorsese, Akira Kurosawa, and François Truffaut.

Why is Pather Panchali Satyajit Ray’s best movie?

Released in 1955, the first installment of the Apu trilogy’s brilliance lies in Ray's ability to capture the beauty and harshness of everyday existence. The narrative unfolds with delicate subtlety, weaving a rich tapestry of emotions through the life of young Apu and his family. Ray's commitment to realism, coupled with breathtaking cinematography and a haunting musical score, makes Pather Panchali an enduring classic that resonates with audiences, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries.

Where can you stream Satyajit Ray’s filmography?

Prime Video, Hoichoi, Plex and more.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali, a name synonymous with opulence, grandeur, and artistic brilliance (and even controversy at times), stands as one of the most revered filmmakers in the Indian film industry.

Born in Bollywood's birthplace Mumbai, Bhansali has left an indelible mark on Bollywood through his distinctive cinematic vision, unparalleled storytelling, and a penchant for creating visual spectacles. His films are not merely narratives; they are immersive experiences that transport the audience into a world where emotions are heightened, visuals are breathtaking, and storytelling is elevated to an art form.

A Man of Visuals

One of the defining characteristics of Bhansali's filmmaking is his unwavering commitment to aesthetics. Each frame in his movies is a meticulously crafted canvas, where every detail, from costume design to set decoration, is carefully considered. This meticulous attention to visual detail is evident in films such as the BAFTA-nominated Devdas, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, and Padmaavat. The elaborate sets, vibrant costumes, and intricate choreography contribute to the visual splendor that has become synonymous with Bhansali's directorial style.

Emotional Narratives

Beyond the visual extravaganza, Bhansali is a master storyteller who weaves narratives that resonate with emotion and passion. His films often revolve around themes of love, sacrifice, and societal norms, portrayed through characters who undergo profound transformations. In Devdas, he explored the tragic tale of unrequited love, while Black delved into the world of a visually impaired and deaf girl's journey toward self-discovery. Bhansali's ability to delve into the human psyche and extract powerful performances from his actors is a testament to his storytelling prowess.

Bhansali the Musician

Music is another integral component of Bhansali's cinematic universe. Acting as a music producer in most of his projects, Bhansali's collaborations with renowned composers like Ismail Darbar, Monty Sharma, and Shreya Ghoshal have resulted in soul-stirring soundtracks that complement the narrative and contribute to the emotional depth of his films. The music of Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela and Padmaavat not only topped the charts but also played a pivotal role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Bringing out the Artistic Best from Mainstream Stars

In addition to his visual and narrative brilliance, Bhansali is known for his ability to extract extraordinary performances from his actors. Deepika Padukone's portrayal of Mastani in Bajirao Mastani, and Hrithik Roshan's enigmatic turn as the eponymous character in Guzaarish stand as testimony to Bhansali's directorial acumen.

Similarly, some of Ranveer Singh's best movies were directed by Bhansali. The aforementioned Bajirao Mastani found the otherwise energetic performer explore a more nuanced performance as a medieval ruler while Bhansali's period drama Padmaavat allowed him to play around method acting as the megalomaniac invader Allaudin Khilji. Even a mainstream Bollywood icon like Shah Rukh Khan subverted his previous romantic roles with a more painfully tragic turn as the titular tragic lover in Bhansali's Devdas.

Why Gangubai Kathiawadi is Sanjay Leela Bhansali's best movie?

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 2022 venture Gangubai Kathiawadi proved that the director still hasn’t lost his visual eye and storytelling touch, years after he began his filmmaking career. Featuring a career-best performance by Alia Bhatt in the titular role, the period drama recounts the life of a sex worker who became an influential socialite and champion of sex work rights in the country. Regular collaborator Sudeep Chatterjee’s cinematography brought alive the Gothic grandeur of post-independence Mumbai while Bhansali sensibly tackled a sensitive story, showcasing his ability to convey social messages with mainstream cinema. With the movie’s critical and commercial success, the auteur proved that he only gets better with age.

Where can you stream Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s filmography?

Netflix, Prime Video, Voot, Jio, and others.

The man behind Jab We Met, Rockstar and Highway, loves challenging himself. Born in Jamshedpur and starting as a director of TV episodes and one-hour specials, Imtiaz Ali struggled initially with the commercial failure of his directorial debut Socha Na Tha. 

Continuing the movie’s failure as a screenwriter for the Fyodor Dostovoesky-inspired romance Ahista Ahista also didn’t change his fate. But his sophomore directorial venture Jab We Met made Ali a household name. The delightful rom-com starring Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor subverted Bollywood romance cliches with Ali’s dialogues reflecting the late 2000s-era youth of an ever-changing India. 

Jab We Met opened new avenues for Ali who went on to address modern love stories with the Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone-led drama Love Aaj Kal. As a director-writer, Ali became a true tour de force in 2011 when he helmed Rockstar, one of Ranbir Kapoor’s best movies that found the actor playing a musical genius tortured by his artistic ego and tragic love life. Oscar-winner AR Rahman’s accompanying soundtrack blends some hard rock power anthems with some soul-stirring ballads, making Rockstar an unforgettable musical journey even after a decade since its release. 

Over the years, Imtiaz Ali has been slightly criticised for repetitively exploring, or at times rehashing, his notions of romance. For instance, his collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan Jab Harry Met Sejal failed to win him any new fans while his spiritual sequel to Love Aaj Kal (also called Love Aaj Kal) earned him negative reactions among both critics and audiences. But none of the criticisms have deterred him from experimenting with the romance genre. 

Highway is a notable example with Ali penning a heartbreaking story of a girl being kidnapped and falling in love with her abductor. The movie could have played out as an ordinary case of Stockholm Syndrome but it doubles as an atmospheric road movie with some scenes addressing sexual harassment in a sensitively mature manner. 

Ali isn’t always content with just directing and has dabbled in other ventures as well, such as serving as the showrunner, producer, and writer of the Netflix thriller series She, producing the Sony LIV sex comedy series Dr. Arora, and penned the screenplay of his brother Sajid Ali’s directorial debut Laila Majnu. 

The latter proves how some of Ali’s works are revered years after their theatrical release. Released in 2018 to a lukewarm response, the reworking of an Indian romantic folk tale earned a cult status later. Critics have reassessed their views and the audiences are more generous to Ali’s introspective screenplay. Similarly, his coming-of-age drama Tamasha also flopped in its time but resonated emotionally with many younger viewers in the years to follow, with some relating to the struggles of Ranbir Kapoor’s protagonist to balance his professional commitments with artistic pursuits. 

Why Highway is Imtiaz Ali’s best movie?

When a wealthy girl is abducted for ransom, she embarks on a life-changing road trip that forces her to acknowledge past traumas while forging new relationships. With this expansive premise and a powerhouse lead act by Alia Bhatt, Highway is an unforgettable ride in Imtiaz Ali’s career. It has the wandering sense of adventure from Jab We Met but also evokes the brutal facets of human nature resonant in Rockstar. All in all, it mixes the best parts of Ali’s work with a narrative that continues to be fresh in contemporary Bollywood. Couple that with some of AR Rahman’s finest work in Hindi-language music and you get a modern classic in your hands. 

Where can you stream Imtiaz Ali’s filmography?

Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, and others.

Having directed numerous Tamil and Hindi cult favourites, Mani Ratnam stands as a cinematic maestro who has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema with his thought-provoking narratives, compelling characters, and visually stunning storytelling. With a career spanning decades, the writer and director has become a trailblazer in Indian cinema, known for his ability to seamlessly blend artistry with mass appeal.

A Diverse Storyteller

Mani Ratnam is a master storyteller who consistently pushes the boundaries of narrative conventions. From his early works like the political thrillers/tragiromances Roja and Dil Se to later ventures like the capitalist underdog story Guru and the revisionist Ramayan adaptation Raavanan, Ratnam's narratives are marked by their originality and ability to engage audiences with fresh perspectives. He often weaves intricate plots that transcend genres, making his films a captivating blend of drama, romance, and social commentary.

And in the 2010s, just when cinephiles thought Ratnam was content with more minimalist low-budget features like the romantic comedy OK Kanmani, he went on to surprise audiences and critics in 2022 with his two-part historical epic Ponniyin Selavan. A longtime passion project of his, the film reunited frequent collaborators like Vikram and Aishwarya Rai while recounting the history of the Chola empire in ancient India. 

A Man of Visuals

Ratnam's films are a visual feast, showcasing his keen eye for cinematography and aesthetics. Collaborating with acclaimed cinematographers like Santosh Sivan, Ratnam's frames are often visually striking, capturing the essence of the story through evocative visuals. The picturesque landscapes in films like Dil Se and Bombay add a layer of visual poetry to his storytelling even if both projects end up dealing with turbulent politics in the country.

The zenith of his aesthetic setpieces is obviously the aforementioned Ponniyin Selavan series that captures the larger-than-life architecture of the Chola kings in Tamil Nadu.

The Good, the Bad and the Morally Grey: Mani Ratnam’s Unforgettable Characters

One of Ratnam's strengths lies in his ability to create complex and relatable characters. Whether it's the conflicted youth politician protagonists in Yuva or the tragic lovers in Dil Se, each character is meticulously crafted, adding depth to the narrative. The nuanced performances he extracts from his actors contribute to the enduring impact of his films. 

A lot of Ratnam’s classic characters are morally grey or antiheroic. There’s Kamal Haasan’s Sakthivel as a case in point, the common man-turned-crimelord in Ratnam’s Godfather-inspired crime drama Nayakan. Abhishek Bachchan stars as a budding industrialist in Guru, as he remains conflicted between his commercial hustle and personal life. In Raavanan, Vikram plays an outlaw who seems like a ruthless criminal on the surface but is leading his oppressed community to a rebellion. Ratnam doesn’t enjoy giving easy answers to his audiences. In some movies, he really wants them to question their own morals. 

Why is Iruvar Mani Ratnam’s best movie? 

An Indian political drama doesn’t get any better than Iruvar, a Mohanlal, Prakash Raj, and Aishwarya Rai-led star vehicle that delves into the lives of two iconic figures in Tamil Nadu's political landscape—M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) and M. Karunanidhi. Using a non-linear approach to blend fact with fiction, the film explores their friendship, political rivalry, and the impact they had on the state's politics. The exceptional performances, and complex characters coupled with Ratnam staples like Santosh Sivan’s cinematography and AR Rahman’s score make it an all-time classic. And most of all, Iruvar perfectly exhibits the director’s ability to create films that are both artistically rich and socially relevant. 

Where can you stream Mani Ratnam’s filmography? 

Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar, Aha and many other streaming platforms.

Yash Chopra, an iconic figure in Indian cinema, remains eternally embedded in the hearts of cinephiles as a visionary filmmaker whose contributions have shaped the landscape of Bollywood. His illustrious career spanning several decades is a testament to his ability to craft timeless stories that seamlessly blend emotion, romance, and social commentary. This essay explores the remarkable journey of Yash Chopra as a film director, highlighting the key aspects of his cinematic genius.

Yash Chopra's Early Life and Entry into Filmmaking

Born on September 27, 1932, in Lahore (now in Pakistan), Yash Chopra started his career in the film industry at a young age. His entry into filmmaking can be traced back to the family business, as his father owned a film distribution company. Yash Chopra's early experiences in the industry laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the cinematic craft.

Evolution of Yash Chopra's Style

Yash Chopra's directorial journey began with the film Dhool Ka Phool in 1959, and from then on, there was no looking back. His early films showcased a director experimenting with various genres, and it was evident that he was honing his skills. The turning point came with Waqt (1965), a family drama that marked the beginning of his association with the concept of multi-starrers, a trend that later became synonymous with his name.

Romance and Music

Chopra's name became synonymous with timeless romance. His ability to capture the essence of love on screen, often set against breathtaking backdrops, earned him the title of the King of Romance. Films like Kabhi Kabhie, Silsila, and Chandni showcased his knack for portraying the complexities of human relationships with finesse. Additionally, Yash Chopra's films are often remembered for their soul-stirring soundtracks, with music playing a pivotal role in enhancing the emotional resonance of his narratives.

Social Commentary in Yash Chopra's Filmography

While romance was a recurring theme, Yash Chopra's films were not limited to the realm of love. He exhibited a keen sense of social responsibility, using his directorial prowess to address pertinent societal issues. Deewaar, a gritty drama exploring the conflict between two brothers, and Kala Patthar, shedding light on the lives of coal miners, exemplify his commitment to socially relevant storytelling.

Technological Advancements and Global Recognition

Yash Chopra embraced technological advancements in filmmaking, evident in his later works like Dil To Pagal Hai and Veer-Zaara. These films not only showcased his adaptability but also resonated with a global audience, earning him international acclaim. Veer-Zaara, in particular, was praised for its cross-border love story and nuanced portrayal of Indo-Pak relations.

The Legacy of Yash Chopra

Yash Chopra's legacy extends beyond his directorial prowess. His production house, Yash Raj Films, founded in 1970, has become a powerhouse in the Indian film industry, producing critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. The baton has been passed to his son Aditya Chopra, ensuring that the Yash Chopra cinematic legacy continues to thrive.

Why Deewaar is Yash Chopra's best movie?

Yash Chopra's romances have aged well but it's Deewaar that shines as the complete package, thanks to Amitabh Bachchan's era-defining performance, and Salim-Javed's razor-sharp screenplay. The story of two brothers separated in their adolescence doubles as a dramatic crime thriller and an emotional mother-son tale. Bachchan plays the underdog gangster Vijay while Shashi Kapoor shines in a supporting performance as his brother, the morally righteous cop Vijay. The brothers' emotional confrontation culminating in the dialogue "mere paas maa hai" continues to be referenced in Indian pop culture.

Where can you stream Yash Chopra's filmography?

Netflix, Prime Video and Zee 5 are some of the leading sources to stream Yash Chopra's movies.

Rajkumar Hirani is a cinematic master of family-friendly humour in Bollywood. With his latest work being the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Dunki, Hirani’s filmography is adorned with delightful comedy-dramas most of which carry an underlying social message.

Here’s a look at Hirani’s finest works in his short but impactful filmography.

Early success with Munnabhai films

Starting out as an assistant director under Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Hirani carved his niche in mainstream Bollywood with the medical comedy Munnabhai MBBS which starred Sanjay Dutt as a gangster who aspires to become a doctor. 

Earning immensely positive reviews, Hirani followed up the movie with the spiritual sequel Lage Raho Munnabhai which advocated Gandhian ideals of non-violence in everyday life. The movie’s surreal premise found the titular goon saving an old-age home after he starts having visions of the Indian freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi. 

A Successful Partnership with Aamir Khan

Apart from Sanjay Dutt, Rajkumar Hirani’s most enduring acting collaborator has been Aamir Khan. The Bollywood star first joined forces with Hirani in 3 Idiots, a comedy-drama set in the cutthroat world of Indian engineering colleges. Pairing Khan alongside character actors R Madhavan and Sharma Joshi, Hirani crafted a powerful narrative that satirizes the country’s education system in the director’s typical heartwarming way. 

3 Idiots was followed by PK, another satire that addressed religious dogmas from the point of view of a naive alien. Despite rousing some controversy, PK was an instant hit among the country’s religiously diverse populace and still rests on the box-office as one of the highest-grossing Bollywood movies.

A Semi-Biographical Detour 

Hirani took a break from his social message dramas in 2018 with Sanju, a semi-biographical look at the turbulent life of the filmmaker’s recurring collaborator and personal friend Sanjay Dutt. From fighting drug addiction to going to jail on charges of terrorist links, Dutt has had his fair share of real-life drama. And while Sanju spurred some critical debate on creative liberties, it was still a hit with Ranbir Kapoor’s convincing performance as the Bollywood actor. 

An Immigrant Comedy with Shah Rukh Khan 

After two critical and commercial successes with Aamir Khan, Hirani set his eyes on the other big Khan of Bollywood: the one known as SRK. Titled Dunki (a local pronunciation of the word “donkey”), the comedy dealt with the struggles of illegal Indian immigrants to America. While its theatrical opening didn’t match the standards of his previous hits, Dunki is still a sweet, little addition to Hirani’s feel-good track record.

Why PK is Rajkumar Hirani’s best movie 

PK is not just one of Aamir Khan’s best movies but it can also be regarded as Rajkumar Hirani’s finest work. A close contender can be the duo’s other collaboration 3 Idiots but PK is Hirani at his quintessential peak. With Khan playing an eccentric alien, PK explores India’s multi-religious identity and the dogmas within it. 

For the sake of his popular audience, Hirani has frequently steered clear of socio-political subjects in his films. However, PK is arguably his most audacious piece of art, one that caused debate even before it was released. Nevertheless, everyone should see the film because it does not constitute a hostile critique of organized religion. Rather, it just raises polite issues about how false prophets might misrepresent and defame religion. PK has it all, remaining as Hirani's best work to this day, from Khan's comedic performance as the infantile alien to an intense romantic plotline that crosses national boundaries.

Where can you stream Rajkumar Hirani’s filmography? 

Most of Rajkumar Hirani’s movies can be streamed on Netflix and Prime Video. 

SS Rajamouli has always been a man of grandeur. This is evident from his big-budget action epics like Bahubali and the Oscar-winning period drama RRR. But instead of just amping up the action and the visuals, the Critics’ Choice Movie Award-winning director also has some out-of-the-box ideas at his disposal. Just take the case of Eega, a revenge drama about a man reborn as a fly!

Here’s a look at Rajamouli’s larger-than-life career.

Early collaborations with Junior NTR and Prabhas

Rajamouli marked his debut with Student No: 1 in 2001 and followed it up with another action drama in 2003, Simhadri. Both movies pale in comparison to Rajamouli’s future projects but they notably starred a younger Junior NTR who was still emerging as a Telugu action star.

A more notable early action credit in Rajamouli’s filmography is the 2005 drama Chatrapathi. Featuring Prabhas in the lead, Chatrapathi is the story of a displaced migrant from Sri Lanka who finds his long-lost family in Tamil Nadu while encountering local goons. The film marked a crucial partnership for Rajamouli who would collaborate with Prabhas for the Bahubali movies and also showcased the director’s affinity for balancing violent action with melodramatic family storylines.

Fantasy experiments with Magadheera and Eega

After a string of action movies, Rajamouli turned towards the fantasy genre with the Ram Charan-led period epic Magadheera. The most expensive Telugu film of its time, Magadheera revolved around themes of reincarnation and eternal love. Ram Charan and Kajal Aggarwal starred as two star-crossed lovers who are killed off in a medieval era only to get reincarnated four centuries later. Flipping between two timelines, Magadheera was a romance of a scale that the Telugu film industry had never witnessed before.

Rajamouli’s obsession with rebirth and revenge returned in Eega, a fantasy comedy-drama that starred a tragic lover’s revenge as a reincarnated fly. The outlandish concept along with Kannada star Sudip’s compelling performance as the antagonist made Eega earn raves among critics, audiences, and even actors like Shah Rukh Khan. The Telugu movie was equally successful in its multilingual dubs, foreshadowing Rajamouli’s greatness as a pan-Indian filmmaker.

Epic storytelling with Bahubali

Rajamouli joined forces with his Chatrapathi star Prabhas for the Bahubali franchise, a series of two films that revolved around the political and militaristic tussles in the fictional kingdom of Mahishmati. 

Boasting storylines drawn from epics like the Mahabharata and staging some spectacular battle sequences, Rajamouli succeeded in offering India its very own cinematic universe to be proud of. Bahubali’s legacy can be felt in Indian pop culture with the multimedia franchise that it spawned (novels, comics, an animated series on Prime, and upcoming spinoffs) and the extremely quotable characters like Devasena, Kattappa, and many more.  

Why RRR is SS Rajamouli’s best movie

While the enduring legacy of Bahubali made Rajamouli a household name in India, it is his 2022 historical action drama RRR that put him on the map of the world. Increasing the stakes of stunt choreography and visual effects in Telugu cinema, uniting industry titans like Junior NTR and Ram Charan, and making his heroes dance on the Oscar-winning foot-tapping dance number Naatu Naatu, Rajamouli created an over-the-top action saga with RRR that left everyone in awe. The revisionist history set in colonial India isn’t the most accurate representation of the anti-imperialist freedom fighters Alluri Sitaram Raju and Komaram Bheem but it is truly a cinematic spectacle like no other. 

Where can you stream SS Rajamouli’s filmography?

Rajamouli’s best movies can be streamed on Netflix, Prime Video, Aha, Hotstar and more. 

Arun Kumar aka Atlee broke out with blockbusters in the Tamil film industry but given the success of his Bollywood directorial debut Jawan, he is clearly a pan-Indian filmmaker. Jawan, in fact, also ranked second in JustWatch India’s 10 Most Popular Movies of 2023. Here’s a look at his journey to box-office and streaming glory.

Assistant Director under Shankar

Doubling as a screenwriter and producer on his projects, Atlee began his career as an assistant director under Tamil veteran Shankar. Atlee’s stint as an AD was on Shankar’s sci-fi epic Enthiran (Robot) which starred superstar Rajinikanth in a double role as a robotics scientist and his creation. Atlee crossed paths with Shankar again for Nanban, the Tamil remake of 3 Idiots, a modern Bollywood classic and one of Aamir Khan’s best movies.

Working on Nanban was crucial in Atlee’s career as it starred Vijay, the Tamil actor who would end up starring in most of the director’s future filmography.

Directorial debut with Raja Rani

Featuring Arya and Nayanthara as a mismatched couple, the romantic-comedy Raja Rani marked Atlee’s debut as a Tamil director. Raja Rani was an instant hit with particular praise for the performances and Atlee’s dialogues, winning multiple state and industry honours. But Raja Rani was just the tip of the iceberg as Atlee was yet to prove his worth as an action director.

A Hat-Trick with Vijay

Atlee’s subsequent efforts marked some of Thalapathy Vijay’s best movies with Atlee directing the Tamil hero as both a man of action and emotion. Their first collaboration was Theri which starred Vijay in a dual role as a morally righteous police officer and a loving father.

Their sophomore film Mersal took Atlee’s obsession with multiple roles a notch higher as Vijay starred in triple roles. Vijay didn’t just play a local village wrestler in this drama but also the wrestler’s two sons. Apart from familial themes, the movie also went down an action thriller territory unleashing Atlee’s potential in the genre.

Bigil, Vijay and Atlee’s third movie together, marked a change in tone for it was a football drama. Vijay stars as a local gangster who turns into a football coach to lead a women’s soccer team to victory. It won’t be surprising to note that Vijay yet again starred in a double role as he also played the protagonist’s father.

Bollywood success with Jawan

All eyes were on Atlee as he geared up to make his Bollywood debut with none other than industry stalwart Shah Rukh Khan. Already eager to rebrand himself as an action star in 2023 with Pathaan, Khan played the jailer-cum-vigilante Azad in Atlee’s adrenaline-fueled action epic. Atlee’s affinity for double roles in Tamil cinema made its way to the Hindi format too with the interval shockingly revealing Khan also playing Azad’s aged, army veteran father.

Why Jawan is Atlee’s best movie

Despite all of Atlee’s movies being full-fledged entertainers, Jawan encapsulates the best of Atlee’s multi-genre filmography. The movie is effective not just as a showcase for its larger-than-life leading man but also offers compelling performances from Vijay Sethupathi in a villainous role and Atlee’s Raja Rani collaborator Nayanthara as a duty-bound police officer. Apart from boasting chase and combat scenes worthy of the big screen, Jawan also has its fair share of sentimentality as a father-son tale. With the post-interval scenes also delving into a tragic backstory involving Deepika Padukone in an extended cameo as the protagonist’s mother, Jawan succeeds as a movie for the masses.

Where can you stream Atlee’s filmography?

Most of Atlee’s movies are on Netflix, Prime Video, and Sun NXT.

Since the 2000s, Rohit Shetty has endured as one of Bollywood’s most successful and most unrealistic directors. Known for staging over-the-top stunts and tongue-in-cheek theatrics, Shetty’s action flicks and comedies have been top-grossers at the box-office, especially the ones belonging to his two franchises: Golmaal and the Rohit Shetty Cop Universe.

Gravity is definitely Shetty’s arch-nemesis as he loves exploding and flipping off cars in the most physics-defying ways possible. But it’s this extravagance that often works in his favour, allowing audiences to suspend their logic for enjoyable mass entertainers. While some of his films like Cirkus failed to mint a fortune, Shetty has mostly retained his status as a bankable filmmaker in mainstream Indian cinema. Here’s a look at his career so far.

Success with Golmaal franchise

Even though Rohit Shetty marked his directorial debut with the 2004 hostage thriller Zameen, it’s the 2006 comedy Golmaal: Fun Unlimited that put him on the map. Starring his Zameen hero Ajay Devgn alongside actors like Sharman Joshi, Arshad Warsi, and a hilariously memorable Tushar Kapoor, the comedy of errors was an instant hit and spawned equally successful sequels like Golmaal Returns, Golmaal 3, and Golmaal Again. All of these movies featured his recurring collaborator and friend Ajay Devgn along with Shetty’s trusted troupe of character actors with goofy comedic timing like Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, and many more.

The Golmaal franchise also proved how Bollywood franchises can be built around spiritual sequels. Despite sharing common character names throughout each movie, none of the installments are directly connected. Golmaal Again, in fact, took an entirely different route by also throwing supernatural comedy in the mix. This similar formula of spiritual sequels under the same brand name was later utilised by other Bollywood comedy franchises like the Housefull movies.

Rohit Shetty’s Cop Universe

While the Golmaal movies also had their fair share of high-octane stuntwork, Shetty transitioned towards serious action with Singham, a Hindi remake of the Tamil cop drama of the same name. Starring his regular muse Ajay Devgn as the law-abiding police officer Inspector Bajirao Singham, the 2011 movie was an instant blockbuster. Critics and audiences were all in awe of Devgn’s committed lead performance as a righteous lawman who wages his personal war against a corrupt politician played with exceptional wit and villainy by Prakash Raj.

Singham soon gave way to a direct sequel Singham Returns and other police vigilante spin-offs like Sooryavanshi and Simmba, starring Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh in the titular roles respectively. The brakes on this cop universe haven’t stopped yet as Shetty plans on expanding it further with the 2024 Prime Video series Indian Police Force starring Siddharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty, and Vivek Oberoi as officials of the eponymous collective. The Singham lore also continues with Singham Again which apart from Devgn will also feature Deepika Padukone as a new khaki uniform-wearing protagonist.

Why the first Golmaal is still Rohit Shetty’s best movie?

Rohit Shetty’s contribution to Bollywood action is unmatched but it’s Golmaal that continues to endure as a cult favourite. From outlandish pranks to a frenzied third act, the first Golmaal movie also offered unforgettable side-characters like the bumbling gangster Babli Bhai and the snake tattoo-covered martial artist Pandu Ranga, The premise of four friends trying to dupe a blind couple might seem straightforward but the abundance of individual moments of both choreographed and improvised hilarity make Golmaal: Fun Unlimited an iconic 2000s-era comedy.

Where can you stream Rohit Shetty’s filmography?

Rohit Shetty’s movies can be streamed on Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, Eros Now and more.

Anurag Kashyap needs no introduction as he has cemented himself as one of the most globally renowned filmmakers from India. With multiple movies being screened at Cannes and opening up the Indian Netflix space with the drama series Sacred Games, Kashyap continues to experiment over the decades. He has definitely come a long way as a screenwriter and director considering that his debut film Paanch was denied a release by the censor board.

But Kashyap has flirted with controversy time and again, thanks to the extreme violence and explicit language that adorn most of his filmography. And yet none of this gritty content is used for shock value. Be it with Black Friday or Dev.D or No Smoking, Kashyap has subverted mainstream Bollywood with unabashedly bold artistic experiments.

A Master of Indian Crime

Starting out as a writer and assistant director under crime genre veteran Ram Gopal Varma, Kashyap’s destiny lay with the crime genre. While Gangs of Wasseypur duology found him exploring real-world gang wars of India’s coal-mining regions, Black Friday 

details the police investigation that followed the 1993 terrorist bomb blasts in Mumbai. He has succeded in creating some morally grey heroes (and antiheroes) in neo-noirs like Ugly, Raman Raghav 2.0, and his most recent effort Kennedy (which still awaits an Indian theatrical release as of now). 

In each of these cases, Kashyap gets drawn from actual crime cases and tries to dig deeper into the mentality of the criminals as well as the authorities. This results in some of the most nuanced crime thrillers and character studies in contemporary Indian cinema.

Surrealist Bollywood experiments

Merely stereotyping Anurag Kashyap as an arthouse director will be redundant to his multi-genre work. But still, it’s undeniable that Kashyap was toying around with surrealism at a time when it wasn’t that mainstream in Bollywood. This would explain some of his movies that were unanimously considered to be too ahead of their times.

A prime example is No Smoking which starred John Abraham in one of his most unconventional roles as a nicotine-addicted insomaniac who goes down a cerebral path of deaddiction. The Kafkaesque thriller also proves how Kashyap gets inspiration from anywhere and everywhere. No Smoking is an adaptation of Quitters Inc, one of Stephen King’s lesser-known short stories.

Dev.D, Kashyap’s tragicomic take on the classic Hindi novel Devdas, similarly offered a bizarrely fresh take on the tale of a self-destructive, heartbroken drunkard. The Abhay Deol-starrer doesn’t just showcase Kashyap’s tendency to create unforgettable brutes for heroes but also his ability to experiment with music. Amit Trivedi’s psychedelic soundtrack for Dev.D, complete with the strange breakdance routines that accompany it, was equally influential in making it a cult classic.

Why Gangs of Wasseypur is Anurag Kashyap’s best movie?

Released in two parts but conceived as a single entity, Gangs of Wasseypur is quintessential Kashyap. The premise of warring factions in the titular North Indian town could have been formulaic but in Kashyap’s hands, it turns into a compelling family saga that has a fair balance of jarring violence and chuckle-worthy humour. Offering career-best performances from Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Gangs of Wasseypur struck a chord between the most mainstream Bollywood audiences as well as the niche film festival crowds. Forget everyone, even Kashyap’s own idol Martin Scorsese loved it!

Where can you stream Anuraug Kashyap’s filmography?

Some of Anurag Kashyap’s movies like the pandemic thriller Choked and his segments for Lust Stories and Ghost Stories are Netflix originals while some others can be streamed on Lionsgate Play and ZEE5.

Karan Johar, or KJo as he’s popularly known, is one of modern Bollywood’s most popular directors ever since he had his first breakout with the romantic comedy-drama Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in 1998. Much like his father Yash and mother Hiroo Johar, he has also carved his niche as a producer within the industry, as the head honcho of Dharma Productions.

Apart from helming seven feature films as a director, Johar has also dabbled in other efforts such as writing his witty memoir An Unsuitable Boy, hosting the scandalous celebrity talk show Koffee With Karan, and directing three shorts in the anthologies: Bombay Talkies, Lust Stories, and Ghost Stories.

From K3G to Rock Ranii: How KJo changed Bollywood romance

With Dharma Productions, Johar has had the opportunity to venture into genres like drama and action. But romance is perhaps what he will always be associated with, thanks to his evergreen classic romances like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. The former was his Filmfare and National Award-winning directorial debut that paired Shah Rukh Khan alongside Kajol and Rani Mukherji in a love triangle.

The acting trio would join forces with him again in his even more star-studded family drama-cum-romance Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (aka K3G). Johar is unabashedly distant from reality as most of his romances show, and it’s this over-the-top nature that he embraces wholeheartedly. This results in mainstream favourites like the aforementioned two movies which have offered audiences catchy dialogues, hum-worthy songs, exquisite foreign locations, and romances straight out of a fairytale.

Often, Johar can subvert his notions of perfect romance too. Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna was an interesting experiment that found him tackling extramarital adultery while his 2023 Gen-Z effort Rocky Aur Ranii Ki Prem Kahaani found Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt playing lovers from vastly different cultural backgrounds.

His acclaimed short in Lust Stories proved that once in a blue moon, Johar can step out of his ivory tower and make more grounded middle-class love stories. With a career highlight from Kiara Advani in the lead, the Lust Stories short was a delightful take on female sexual independence in conservative families. Similarly, his short Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh in Bombay Talkies touched upon the everyday struggles of an Indian gay man.

KJo and SRK: a beautiful friendship

Shah Rukh Khan has endured as Bollywood’s quintessential lover, owing a lot to his involvement with Yash Raj Films productions like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. But some of Shah Rukh Khan’s best movies in this sense have also come from Dharma Productions with King Khan getting top billing on Johar’s first three romances. Both actor and director showcased a whole other side to their career trajectory when they collaborated on Johar’s fourth movie, the social drama My Name is Khan.

Even after 2010, Khan has retained his partnership with Johar, acting in many of the films that the latter produces and even dropping in for a charming cameo in Johar’s 2016 musical romantic drama Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.

Why My Name Is Khan is Karan Johar’s best movie?

The 2010 hit My Name is Khan was Johar’s attempt at stepping out of his comfort zone. And it was indeed a successful attempt, bringing out the emotional best of its writer-director. Revolving around an autistic Muslim man and his Hindu wife, the movie explored the racism and prejudice that plagued post-9/11 America. It was a bold statement on current affairs and a family-friendly call for universal peace.

Where can you stream Karan Johar’s filmography?

Karan Johar’s movies can be streamed on Netflix and Prime Video.

Known as Big B or Millenium Superstar, Amitabh Bachchan is one of the all-time greats of Bollywood. Finding early success with subversive 70s-era action dramas like Deewar and Zanjeer, Bachchan attained immortality in the industry by aligning himself with cult classics like Sholay, romances like Kabhie Kabhie and Silsila, and more emotion-driven films like Anand and Mili.

But even at the turn of the century, Bachchan has managed to overshadow his peers by finding ready work in all sorts of roles. Be it hosting the quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (the Indian counterpart to Who Wants to Be A Millionaire) or acting in hundreds of ad films to earning continued acclaim in supporting performances in the 2000s and the 2010s, Amitabh Bachchan’s legacy still endures.

The Angry Young Man

The son of noted Hindi poet Harivanshrai Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan himself wasn’t a writer but his early stardom was largely shaped by Bollywood’s legendary screenwriting pair Salim-Javed. The duo collectively wrote many of his classic roles in movies like Deewar, Zanjeer, Coolie, Don, and Sholay. While Sholay was a neo-Western potboiler and Don was a noir thriller, the other examples found Bachchan playing working-class heroes (or anti-heroes in some cases) that encapsulated the collective frustration of the Indian youth in the 1970s.

This is perhaps why critics continue to dub that particular phase’s Amitabh as the “Angry Young Man”.  To an extent, his action-hero persona was kept alive in the 1990s with blockbusters like Agneepath that starred him as a vengeance-seeking gangster.

The Hero with Other Heroes

Despite his evergreen charisma, Amitabh Bachchan hasn’t shied away from sharing screenspace with other top-billed peers. This is more than evident from his acclaimed collaborations with Rajesh Khanna in the Hrishikesh Mukherji-directed features Anand and Namak Haraam, which displayed Bachchan’s emotional prowess. Manmohan Desai’s feel-good tale of separated-and-reunited brothers Amar Akbar Anthony similarly paired Bachchan alongside his on-screen kin Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna.

Transition to Supporting Roles

As he began aging and even his son Abhishek Bachchan went on to carve his acting career, Amitabh Bachchan diversified with the times and began taking on supporting roles from the 2000s onwards. And this choice has perhaps brought out a versatility that only some actors can match including performances like the ever-constipated Bashkor Banerjee in the road comedy Piku, the Alzheimers-struck alcoholic teacher Debraj Sahai in Black, and the titular royal guard in Eklavya.

The Great Gatsby is Bachchan’s only Hollywood credit

Despite his universal fame and appreciation from Hollywood directors like Steven Spielberg, Bachchan ventured to the West only once. He shared a brief role as the Jewish mobster Meyer Wolfsheim in Baz Luhrmann’s take on The Great Gatsby which starred Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio as the eponymous protagonist.

Why Sholay is Amitabh Bachchan’s best movie?

Directed by Ramesh Sippy and written by Salim-Javed, Sholay is an unforgettable gem of 1970s Bollywood. The Western is filled with quotable dialogues and thrilling action chase sequences as it revolves around two ex-convicts taking on the ruthless bandit Amjad Khan. Bachchan is as the courageous hero Jai and so is the supporting ensemble with Dharmendra playing his merry partner-in-crime Veeru and Hema Malini offering a career-best performance as feisty horse-cart driver Basanti. Khan’s terrifying turn as the villain makes him one of Indian cinema’s most endearing villains, etching himself into the echelons of quintessential Indian pop culture (much like every other character from the movie).

Where can you stream Amitabh Bachchan’s filmography?

Most of Amitabh Bachchan’s movies can be streamed on Netflix, and Prime Video along with Indian-exclusive services like ZEE5, Voot, and Shemaroo.

The Archie comics come to the Indian Netflix space, thanks to writer-director Zoy Akhtar’s 60s-era musical romance The Archies. While the movie has polarized some audiences, the Netflix original definitely proves Akhtar’s eye for vibrant set designs and stylish costumes. But her far more superior works in the past like her stunning directorial debut Luck By Chance, the road comedy Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and the urban hip-hop saga Gully Boy prove her mastery over multiple genres. 

Zoya Akhtar and her frequent collaborators

As important as Akhtar’s attention to detail is her tendency to collaborate with some of contemporary Bollywood’s smartest game-changers such as her co-producer and co-writer Reema Kagti. Her brother Farhan Akhtar who has starred in three of her films and also written the dialogues for The Archies is another crucial partner in her team. Ranveer Singh is another prominent collaborator with Akhtar having directed some of the best Ranveer Singh movies like Gully Boy and Dil Dhadakne Do.

Beyond Bollywood: OTT shows and short films

With five feature films to her name, Akhat has also immersed herself in numerous other creative projects such as the Prime Video series Made In Heaven which she co-created with Reema Kagti. One of the most mainstream Indian Prime originals, Made In Heaven revolves around the titular wedding organiser agency with some episodes directed by Akhtar herself.

Together with her filmmaking peers like Anurag Kashyap and Karan Johar, she has also helmed short films for three anthologies: Bombay Talkies, Lust Stories and Ghost Stories. Her best work in these anthologies perhaps comes from the first two examples as her claustrophobic horror short paled in comparison with the other chapters of Ghost Stories.

Her Bombay talkies film “Sheila Ki Jawaani” opened up a heartwarming conversation on parenting children who might not subscribe to heteronormative notions of society. Akhatr’s Lust Stories segment was equally powerful in its social message as it played around the relationship between a bachelor and his domestic helper. While the duo share an intimate bond, their social class differences come in between when it comes to their future.

Why is Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara the best Zoya Akhtar film?

Zoya Akhtar has occasionally been judged for helming only elite narratives, a complaint she has already quashed with works like Luck By Chance which detailed an outsider’s struggle in the film industry, and Gully Boy, a rags-to-riches story of a Mumbai rapper. Regardless of the social subtext in these two films, they excel as some of Bollywood’s finest works that are rich in artistic merit and are melodramatic enough to be enjoyed by all audiences.

And yet, it is her buddy road comedy-drama Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (aka ZNMD) that can be regarded as her finest. Detailing the bachelor trip of three childhood friends (Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol), ZNMD is a new-age cult classic. Boasting Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s memorable songs and quotable dialogues, Akhtar manages to fill her 2011 film with laugh-out-loud banter between the friends along with some heavily emotional commentary on absent fathers, unstable relationships and the qualms of adulting.

With most of the shooting wrapped up in Spain, Carlos Catalan’s atmospheric cinematography brings out some of the country’s best sights from the beaches to the tomato-squashing La Tomatina festival to an adrenaline-fueled bull chase. It’s only ironic that one of the most beautiful movies set in Spain is a Bollywood blockbuster, one that captures the frustrations and desires of post-globalisation India.

Where can you stream Zoya Akhtar’s filmography?

Some of Zoya Akhtar’s films are Netflix originals while others are available on Prime Video.

Debuting in 1991’s Saugandh, Akshay Kumar has built his legacy as one of Bollywood’s most reliable leading men. Kumar also gets trolled at times for occasional streaks of commercial flops but his tendency to regularly work across multiple genres helps in delivering some memorable performances too. He might be the only Bollywood hero in today’s times who ends up starring in almost five movies every year!

Khiladi Kumar: Legacy as an Action Star

Akshay Kumar is synonymous with the word Khiladi.  Even though the character arcs have changed over the years, the sobriquet Khiladi has endured in several (often unrelated) action films featuring him in the lead, starting with the 1992 hit Khiladi and being followed by spiritual sequels like International Khiladi, Mr. and Mrs. Khiladi and many more.

What is notable about the Khiladi movies is that they showcased Kumar’s emphasis on practical stunts. Instead of relying on stunt doubles, the actor was more than ready to perform his own action scenes (a rarity for Bollywood heroes in general). This physical prowess perhaps stems from his martial arts background. Before his mainstream success, Kumar even spent five years in Bangkok to master Thai Boxing.

The Slapstick Comedy Era

Just because Kumar started with the action genre doesn’t mean he wasn’t funny. In fact with cult favourites like Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag, Welcome, and Singh Is Kingg, Kumar put his comic timing on full display. All of the aforementioned comedies relied on Kumar’s over-the-top nature, be it in the form of slapstick mannerisms or blaring loud dialogue delivery.

Equally important in these comedies were the talented supporting actors pitted alongside him. Prominent cases in point include Paresh Rawal as Baburao in the Hera Pheri franchise and Nana Patekar as the eccentric gangster Uday Shetty in Welcome. Such standout characters from these movies only added further credibility to Akshay Kumar as a team player. While Kumar did have meaty parts for himself, he doesn’t seem to carry much of an ego to prevent the supporting actors from overshadowing him.

The Social Message Phase

Following his successful streak of family-friendly comedies in the 2000s, Kumar entered the 2010s with an affinity for social message dramas. Even if he flirted with the action genre during this time (Holiday, Baby), Kumar’s patriotic leading man carried a strong sense of moral responsibility for the nation.

At the same time, Kumar took delightful turns in playing real-life heroes like the social activist Laxmikant Chauhan in Pad Man , a character inspired by entrepreneur Arunachalam Muruganantham who created low-cost sanitary pads for rural women. Another example is his dramatically intense turn in Kesari as Havildar Ishar Singh, a valiant Sikh war hero from British-ruled India of 1897.

Why Special 26 is Akshay Kumar’s best movie?

Just when Kumar’s roles seemed to get formulaic or unmemorable, he proved everyone wrong with the heist thriller Special 26 . With director Neeraj Pandey recreating Delhi of the 1980s, Special 26 was a career-defining movie that proved Kumar’s intensity is only getting better with age. He shines as a mild-mannered trickster who robs corrupt politicians of their black money, a surprisingly understated performance by the otherwise energetic actor. And yet again, Kumar is accompanied by some heavily praiseworthy supporting actors, Anupam Kher as his trusted accomplice and Manoj Bajpayee as a police official in pursuit. Special 26 was a return to form for Kumar and has continued to age well a decade later.

Where can you stream Akshay Kumar’s filmography?

Most of Akshay Kumar’s best movies can be streamed on leading OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar and many more.

Five years after Netflix started releasing Indian originals, the streaming landscape in the country has diversified like never before. This applies to not just global giants like Netflix and Prime Video but also homegrown platforms. Just take the case of JioCinema for instance, which offered the #1 TV show of 2023, Asur: Welcome to Your Dark Side.

Sony LIV and Hotstar also pulled through with two titles in the list to compete with Netflix which boasts 4 out of the top 10 titles. Here’s this year in review in terms of the TV shows that got Indians talking.

How did we rank the most popular TV shows of 2023?

This year-ender is based on the JustWatch India popularity score amassed by each movie this year. The score relies heavily on insights on JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts and user activity such as clicking on a streaming offer, adding a title to a watchlist, and marking a title as 'seen'. What’s interesting is that despite non-Indian titles like Wednesday and You, no Marvel show could make it to the list. But then again, a recent release like Loki season 2 is unlikely to make it on the list because it was available to stream for a short time in 2023. 

Asur season 2 and Farzi take the top spots

The second season of the psychological thriller Asur lived up to the anticipation, premiering on Jio Cinema even though it was initially a Voot original. A close contender that ultimately came second was Prime Video’s heist thriller Farzi. Already building hype for marking the Hindi TV debuts of Shahid Kapoor and Vijay Sethupathi, Farzi struck a chord with OTT viewers with its amusing premise on counterfeiting currency notes in India. 

Mirzapur still retains its popularity

It's been over three years since Mirzapur season 2 premiered on Prime Video. While a new season is expected in 2024, the blood-soaked Hindi crime drama continues to trend among Indian audiences. Despite a polarising response by critics, Mirzapur dominates mainstream pop culture, thanks to its reinterpretation of classic Indian gangster tropes, quotable dialogues, and even numerous meme templates. 

The Last of Us dominates as HBO finds new home in India

A major change in the Indian streaming space in 2023 was marked by HBO originals moving from Hotstar to Jio Cinema. This would explain how Jio Cinema amassed gargantuan numbers for presenting The Last of Us, the universally acclaimed post-apocalyptic TV adaptation of the video game of the same name. 

Naruto and One Piece: Anime influence continues

It’s no myth that India harbours an ever-rising population of anime fans aka “weebs”. This would explain how Naruto: Shippuden continued to trend; the Naruto spin-off being available on Crunchyroll and Netflix. Talking about Netflix, the streaming service’s big-budget live-action adaptation of the long-running anime One Piece turned out to be a beloved hit among Indian watchers. 

Wednesday and You: Netflix’s big guns

Anchored by a star-making performance by Jenna Ortega and spawning a viral dance trend on social media, Wednesday was one of Netflix’s biggest global successes last year. The supernatural horror comedy retains its popularity in 2023 too as it joins the list at number 3. Another English-language Netflix original that continued trending in India was the psychological thriller You with its fourth season premiering in two parts in early 2023.

As 2023 draws to a close, the Indian streaming space records high numbers for some of the year’s biggest blockbusters and audience favourites from last year. Prime Video emerged as the ultimate winner this time, with five of the top ten titles available on the platform, while Netflix and Hotstar secured two spots each.

From two Shah Rukh Khan-led action dramas to Tamil superstar Rajinikanth’s resounding comeback and even the long-awaited Avatar sequel, here are the most popular titles of 2023 on streaming services.

How did we rank the Top 10 Movies of 2023? 

This year-ender is based on the JustWatch India popularity score, which considers user activity such as clicking on a streaming offer, adding a title to a watchlist, and marking a title as 'seen'. Obviously, not all of 2023’s movies could make it to the list if they still haven’t been released on Indian OTT platforms. So, don’t expect Barbie and Oppenheimer on this list!

Shah Rukh Khan dominates the 2023 streaming charts with Pathaan and Jawan 

Be it in terms of box-office records or streaming trends, Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan enjoyed a good year. Both Pathaan and Jawan have been acknowledged as some of Shah Rukh Khan’s best movies, rebranding him as a full-fledged action hero.

Pathaan, which dropped on Prime Video over two months after the theatrical release with some additional footage, takes the #1 spot on 2023’s streaming charts. Ranking in second place is the extended cut of Jawan which premiered on Netflix on Khan’s birthday, two months after the theatrical release.

Gadar 2 and Jailer: the year of comebacks 

This year’s charts highlight that some of the country’s biggest stars had some remarkable comebacks in 2023. The aforementioned Khan himself returned as a lead actor after a five-year sabbatical. The same can be said for Sunny Deol, who resurfaced gloriously with Gadar 2, the sequel to his 2001 blockbuster Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. When the sequel was made available on ZEE 5, the Indian streaming platform recorded a remarkable upsurge.

This was also a good year for the Deol family as Dharmendra won over critics and audiences for his delightful turn as an aging family patriarch in the romantic comedy Rocky Aur Ranii Ki Prem Kahaani. Streaming on Prime Video, the movie reestablished director Karan Johar’s supremacy in Bollywood while offering memorable leading turns by Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.

The comebacks of 2023 weren’t just limited to Bollywood, as Tamil cinema titan Rajinikanth played the titular character in Jailer. The title is now streaming on Prime Video and Sun NXT. Jailer marks a watershed moment in Rajinikanth’s career after recent disasters like Darbar and Annaatthe.

Bhediya to Avatar 2: 2022 hits resurge

Numerous popular 2022 releases found a streaming home in India only this year, which would explain the presence of the Varun Dhawan-led supernatural comedy Bhediya and James Cameron’s marine epic Avatar: The Way of Water. Bhediya’s popularity, in particular, can be explained by how it was made free to watch on Jio Cinema. The Avatar sequel could be accessed with bonus behind-the-scenes footage on Disney+ Hotstar.

Pan-Indian hits also continued to dominate, including the 2021 Telugu-language Allu Arjun-starrer Pushpa: The Rise - Part 1 (perhaps due to the hype for its upcoming 2024 sequel) and the 2022 Yash-led Kannada blockbuster K.G.F: Chapter 2. Both period crime dramas benefited greatly from the multilingual dubs on Prime Video. And of course, RRR held its relevance this year after its viral song “Naatu Naatu” took home the Oscar for Best Original Song this year.

You can find the entire top 10 most popular movies below, along with where to watch them online.

The face of versatility in mainstream Bollywood, Aamir Khan found early success in the tragic romance Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and the arthouse drama Raakh (for which he even bagged a National Award special mention). But nobody in the industry anticipated the immense range Khan would showcase as he flirted with all sorts of characters and storylines in his diversely storied career.

Described by the press as an eccentric genius, Khan has shown his lighter side with classic performances in Dil Chahta Hai and Secret Superstar while also testing his emotional limits in gut-wrenching performances like the ones in Ghajini and Talaash. Playing around with both mainstream and niche audiences, Khan also holds the distinction of starring in one of India’s very few Oscar nominees (Lagaan in this case). Here’s a glance at his best work as an actor. 

Mr. Perfectionist of Bollywood 

Aamir Khan is often described as a “perfectionist” because of the extent to which he can go to ace his role. The 1990s showcased his chameleon-like abilities in emulating diverse tones in his career. On one hand, he could display slapstick silliness with Chaplin-esque precision in Andaz Apna Apna and on the other, he could capture the moral trials and tribulations of a hardened policeman in Sarfarosh. 

By the 2000s, Khan started separating himself from formulaic Bollywood tropes, unlike peers like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. His movies were still hits at the box office but they carried a social sensitivity that no other big Bollywood star could portray at the time. This is evident from some fine examples like Taare Zameen Par which opened up the conversation on dyslexia in India, 3 Idiots which addressed academic pressure in engineering colleges, and PK which took sarcastic jabs at religious orthodoxy. The fact that Khan reads a script thoroughly before signing up for any project just shows the extent of his creative involvement.

The King of Physical Transformations

In terms of his physical commitment to the craft, Khan is also Bollywood’s answer to Christian Bale. Starting with his eight-pack abs phase in Ghajini, Khan has followed strict dietary regimens to achieve stunning physical transformations in most of his major roles in the 2010s. While his toned body was in full display as a naked alien in PK, a young college student in 3 Idiots, and a master thief in Dhoom 3, it was Dangal that marked the zenith of his physicality. 

To portray an older version of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat, Khan gained 30 kgs and changed his accent. Then, he lost all of that weight to portray a leaner and more muscular version of Phogat in his early 20s. Khan’s Dangal transformation is reminiscent of how Bale lost immense weight for The Machinist and then quickly gained muscle for Batman Begins. One can only wonder what health tips these two acting heavyweights will discuss if they ever meet!

Why is 3 Idiots Aamir Khan’s best movie?

While Aamir Khan has starred in many modern classics, 3 Idiots seems to offer the complete package. Despite being in his mid-40s, he nails the portrayal of the wide-eyed scientific prodigy Rancho who is still remembered as one of Hindi cinema’s most likable heroes. The Rajkumar Hirani movie is also backed by anti-academic pressure sentiments that resonated with audiences across all age groups in India. 3 Idiots bears testimony to Khan’s goal of crafting family-friendly entertainment with some sort of underlying social message.

Where can you stream Aamir Khan’s filmography?

Aamir Khan’s movies can be streamed on Netflix and Prime along with Indian platforms like ZEE5.

Nobody could have guessed Alia Bhatt’s dramatic range when she debuted as a spoilt schoolgirl in Karan Johar’s Student of the Year. With a gut-wrenching performance in her sophomore feature Highway, Bhatt proved that she was destined for greatness. With a stellar career including three Filmfare wins, supporting parts in record-breaking blockbusters like RRR, and even a Hollywood project for Netflix, Bhatt has firmly cemented her footing as one of modern Bollywood’s definitive heroines.

Critical acclaim with Highway, Udta Punjab and more

Feel-good rom-coms have been a staple for Alia Bhatt, as is evident from her playful turns in 2 States, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, and more. But every once in a while, Bhatt loves challenging herself with darker characters along with a social message or two. In Highway, she played a young girl who falls for her kidnapper while dealing with her childhood trauma. Dear Zindagi found her playing a clueless insomniac of a cinematographer who seeks solace in a free-spirited therapist. The movie was notable for talking about therapy at a time when mental health stigmas persisted in India.

Udta Punjab took on the titular Indian state’s drug menace with Bhatt playing a migrant labourer who is unexpectedly involved in a drug smuggling operation. Even Bhatt’s Netflix debut Darlings was a social drama, addressing the normalisation of domestic violence. But instead of relying on dark cynicism, Bhatt’s performance offered hope with Darlings turning into a satire on gender roles with the women finally getting their chance at giving misogynists a taste of their own medicine.

Hollywood debut with Heart of Stone

Joining contemporaries like Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt marked her Hollywood debut in the Netflix action thriller Heart of Stone. Featuring Gal Gadot as a secret agency operative, Heart of Stone also starred Bhatt as an antagonistic hacker who steals some covert intelligence secrets. The film polarised critics but trended on Netflix at the time of its release.

Why Gangubai Kathiawadi is Alia Bhatt’s best movie?

Two of Alia Bhatt’s greatest roles involve portraying real-life heroines: the Indian spy Sehmat Khan in Raazi and the sex worker-turned-social activist Gangubai Kothewali in Gangubai Kathiawadi. Alia Bhatt has showcased her chameleon-like dramatic prowess even in ensemble-driven movies like Udta Punjab and Gully Boy but Gangubai Kathiawadi proved how she can lead a narrative entirely on her shoulders. Driving home social messages on sexual exploitation, Bhatt took on a mainstream lead role with a nuanced sensitivity. While her debut Student of the Year allowed her to play a chirpy high-schooler effortlessly, Gangubai Kathiawadi marked a watershed moment in her career as a lead actress.

Even without Bhatt’s controlled and gritty performance, the movie has its own merits with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali proving once again his affinity for grandiose sets and his frequent cinematographer collaborator Sudeep Chatterjee turning 1960s-era Mumbai into an immersive dystopia.

Where can you stream Alia Bhatt’s filmography?

Most of Alia Bhatt’s best movies can be streamed on leading platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.

Dividing critics and audiences while minting money at the box office, Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal redefines mainstream action in Bollywood. The violent revenge saga directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga (who had earlier courted controversy with Arjun Reddy and its Hindi remake Kabir Singh) finds Kapoor playing Rannvijay Singh, a man burdened by the toxic aggression of his father. But when his authoritarian father’s life is threatened, the morally grey protagonist wreaks havoc in Vanga’s blood-soaked thriller.

For the viewers left shocked after Animal, they can also stream similar crime dramas or other works by Vanga and Kapoor. But if one needs less violent options, one can stream some family dramas exploring turbulent father-son bonds like the one shared between Anil Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor’s characters in Animal. Here’s a glimpse at your post-Animal watchlist.

1- Wake Up Sid

Ranbir Kapoor has had a history of playing rebellious sons as in this feel-good coming-of-age comedy, he plays a spoilt brat trying to build a life out of his wealthy father’s shadow.

2- Udaan

Ronit Roy shocked viewers with his gritty portrayal of an abusive and strict father who controls the dreamy aspirations of his aspiring poet of a son. Not an easy watch, Udaan still offers some much-needed hope.

3- Sarkar

Animal’s central relationship is rooted in violence and is drawing parallels with Michael Corleone’s arc in The Godfather. So, what else to watch but the Hindi remake of the mafia classic? With Amitabh Bachchan filling in for Marlon Brando, Sarkar explores a criminal patriarch’s dominating influence over a shattered family.

4- Dil Dhadakne Do

Animal isn’t Anil Kapoor’s first rodeo as a tough dad. The ensemble comedy-drama Dil Dhadakne Do found him playing a similar part as a father who is concerned more about his business and social image than the trouble brewing within his family. The end result is one of Kapoor’s most earnest performances.

5- Sanju

In many ways, Sanju seems to be the blueprint for Animal given how it proved Kapoor’s affinity to take on physically-challenging roles and to portray morally ambiguous characters. The semi-autobiographical take on Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt’s life is regarded as one of Ranbir Kapoor’s best movies and marked a comeback in his career.

6- Road to Perdition

Have a little Hollywood detour after Animal with the hard-hitting gangster drama Road to Perdition. Playing out as a road movie between a 1920s-era mobster and his adolescent son, this brilliant Sam Mendes venture is one of the few movies to feature Tom Hanks not playing a morally righteous hero. Even though Hanks’ antihero is on the wrong side of the law, his struggles to be a good father might interest Animal’s audiences.

7-  Leo

Loosely inspired by David Cronenberg’s A History of Violence, Leo finds Thalapthy Vijay playing an ominous man with an ominous history who is brought back to a life of gruesome violence after an accident. Much like Animal, Leo explores the moral impact of bloodshed on its hero.

8- The Raid

If Animal’s fight sequences interested you, prepare for more claustrophobic hand-to-hand combat and over-the-top bloodshed in this expertly choreographed Indonesian classic.

9- Haider

Hamlet gets a morbid Indian adaptation in the valley of Kashmir with Kabir Singh star Shahid Kapoor playing a man seeking vengeance for his father’s death. But matters get complicated as his own mother seems to be involved with the killer.

10- Arjun Reddy

The film that kickstarted Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s career (and his affinity for controversy). This tale of a toxic romantic is quite a fitting prelude to Animal.

Shah Rukh Khan. The very name is synonymous with Bollywood. Also fondly venerated as King Khan or SRK, Khan has carved a unique niche in the industry. From starting as a villainous supporting actor to a romantic leading man to joining the YRF Spy Universe, Khan continues to entertain fans not just in his home country but all around the world.

Here’s a look at some of his quintessential career highlights.

Villainous Origins

After drawing praise for his leading acts in TV shows like Fauji and Circus, Shah Rukh Khan tried his hand at acting on the big screen. But the future megastar wouldn’t get lead roles right away. He had to initially make his mark as a villainous figure, with Darr (1993) offering a breakout performance as a deranged stalker. Subsequent roles like revenge-seeking antihero in Baazigar (1993) further established him as a reliable villain.

The King of Romance

Melodramatic romance has enamoured Bollywood since its very origins. But Shah Rukh Khan had a major role to play in redefining cinematic love in the 1990s and the 2000s, starting with his evergreen classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995). The blockbuster helped him establish a formidable partnership with production studio Yash Raj Films in churning out many more romances like the cross-border drama Veer-Zara (2004) and the feel-good comedy Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008).

Khan has also exhibited notable on-screen chemistry with frequent collaborators like Kajol whom he romanced in Dilwale Dulhania and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). Many of Deepika Padukone’s best movies also pair her opposite Khan, such as Om Shanti Om (2007) and Chennai Express (2013). Their chemistry amuses audiences even if Padukone is in a special appearance. Take the case of the 2023 Shah Rukh Khan movie Jawan.

Breaking Typecast

While a large chunk of Shah Rukh Khan’s movies are family-friendly romances, the actor is not afraid to experiment. He has surprised critics with tragiromantic intensity in Dil Se (1998) and Devdas (2002) played a tough-as-nails hockey coach in Chak De India (2007), wielded the sword of the titular emperor in Asoka (2001), and played an unconventionally wholesome psychologist in Dear Zindagi (2016).

An Action Hero

Shah Rukh Khan’s early films in the 1990s did demand some action from him but it’s perhaps his remake of Don (2006) that opened up the potential for him as a proper action star. The crime thriller’s sequel Don 2 (2011) and the sci-fi video game saga Ra. One (2011) bore further testimony to this. It’s all the more exciting for SRK fans to witness their favourite actor still indulge in high-octane action in his late 50s with the record-breaking successes of Pathaan and Jawan (both 2023).

What is Shah Rukh Khan’s best movie?

Shah Rukh Khan isn’t the one to cater to niche audiences with arthouse credits. But still, his critically acclaimed performance in  My Name is Khan (2010) perfectly reflects his ability to spread serious social messages universally. The film found him playing a man with autism dealing with post-9/11 Islamophobia in America. Directed by frequent collaborator Karan Johar, My Name is Khan perfectly sums up the entirety of SRK’s acting range. He’s equal parts charming and emotional as Rizwan Khan, drawing everyone to tears towards the end. Who knew the King of Romance could be this intense?

Where can you watch Shah Rukh Khan’s filmography? 

Considering how popular Shah Rukh Khan is, most of his best films are easily available on leading streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video as well as India-only services like Eros Now and Jio Cinema.

Ranbir Kapoor has carved his niche in Bollywood by taking on mainstream projects like Brahmastra (2022) while challenging himself with the criminally underrated financial comedy Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year (2009) and physically demanding performances in Sanju (2018) and, more recently, Animal (2023).

Ranbir the Romantic

An early stint as an assistant director on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s drama Black led to Kapoor starring in the director’s next project Saawariya (2007). While the romantic drama underperformed, Kapoor was on his way to prove his worth as a charming leading man. And this is what he did, playing a casanova in Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008) and a gullible lover boy in Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahaani (2009).

However, he could sometimes let go of his heroism in favour of a more naive charm. Just take the case of Barfi (2012) with Kapoor’s heavily acclaimed performance as a Chaplin-esque drifter caught up in a love triangle. Some of his best romances were also the best Deepika Padukone movies, like Tamasha (2015) and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013).

Wake Up Sid, Brahmastra and more: How Ayan Mukherji shaped Ranbir’s career

To get top billing in out-of-the-box ideas, Kapoor didn’t need to rely on arthouse projects. Instead, even his mainstream hits could carry some emotionality that other commercial Bollywood movies couldn’t touch upon at the time. Wake Up Sid (2009) is a case in point. The directorial debut of Ayan Mukherji found Kapoor playing a wealthy immature manchild who gets a new lease on life when he befriends an older woman with more responsibilities.

Themes of adulting return in the form of Kapoor’s Bunny in the aforementioned Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, another Kapoor-Mukherji collab that defined 2010s-era Bollywood. The next decade welcomed the start of Mukherji’s long-gestating fantasy superhero project Brahmastra. Kicking off the so-called “Astraverse”, Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva (2022) found the actor playing the fire-creating hero Shiva, one of Bollywood’s rare superheroes.

Sanju and Animal: How Ranbir redefined antiheroes

Performances in Rockstar (2011) and the political thriller Raajneeti (2010) offered an early glimpse at Ranbir Kapoor’s affinity for playing morally grey heroes. Kapoor took this antiheroism up a notch when he was roped in to play controversial filmstar Sanjay Dutt in Sanju (2018). The Rajkumar Hirani movie was a semi-biographical take on Dutt’s life and found Kapoor playing a foul-mouthed, drug-addicted actor who is arrested on suspicion of terrorism.

But still, Kapoor’s take on Sanjay Dutt wasn’t as big a “walking red flag” as Ranvijay "Vijay" Balbir Singh in his blood-soaked crime drama Animal (2023). Despite the movie polarizing critics, Animal won over people chiefly for Kapoor’s performance as an aggressively violent heir to a business company.

Animal’s Vijay is the way he is because of the toxic relationship he shares with his authoritarian father. The character opened up a new chapter in Kapoor’s career, implying that maybe the smiling boy from Saawariya is eager to take on more challenging roles with darker undertones.

How Rockstar still endures as Ranbir Kapoor’s best movie

Barfi can be a strong contender for showcasing Kapoor’s comedic charm. But Rockstar remains a watershed moment in his career, thanks to his emotional portrayal of a tortured artist. The duality of an artist is more than visible in this 2011 blockbuster as Kapoor captures the metamorphosis of a dreamy-eyed boy who becomes a larger-than-life star but at a personal cost. His performance’s impact can be seen in how he won both Filmfare Awards for Best Actor and Best Actor (Critics’ Choice) for Rockstar.

Fondly regarded as “Thalapathy” (loosely translated to Commander) by his legions of fans, Vijay has endured as one of the most mainstream faces of the Tamil film industry.  Here’s a look at his career highlights.

Beginnings as a child actor

Vijay started his screen career at the mere age of 10 with a brief role in his director father S.A. Chandrashekhar’s crime drama Vetri (1984). Further roles as a child artist included the vigilante revenge drama Naan Sigappu Manithan (1985) in which he shared screenspace with Tamil superstar Rajinikanth.

Growing up as a romantic hero

On turning 18, Vijay bagged his first lead role in the melodramatic romance Naalaiya Theerpu (1992) leading up to regular work as hero, in mostly romantic comedies or dramas.

It was the rom-com Poove Unakkaga (1996) that offered his breakout performance. The aptly-titled Love Today (1997) and Thulladha Manamum Thullum (1999) were further successes in establishing him as a charming romantic with the latter offering an earnest performance as a passionate singer. 2000s-era hits like Kushi (2000) and Priyamaanavale (2000) continued his meteoric rise.

Transition to action roles

As a mainstream face of Tollywood, Vijay (or rather his stunt doubles) had to rely on a few action scenes in his early movies. But it is with Thirumalai (2003) that he found his footing as an action star. His action genre ventures have increased in scope and style over the years such as the superhero vigilante hit Velayudham (2011) and the crime thriller Thalaivaa (2013).

Director AR Murugadoss and Vijay have helmed several successful action ventures together including Vijay’s box office-smashing hit Thuppaki (2012) in which he played a counter-terrorism army officer and Kaththi (2014) in which he had a dual role as a petty thief and his doppelganger, an idealist farmers rights leader.

New success with Master and Leo

Another director who has increased the scope of Vijay’s action star career is Lokesh Kanagaraj who first collaborated with the actor for the mega-hit Master (2021). A success in terms of both theatrical and streaming records, Master found Vijay playing an alcoholic professor saving a juvenile home. While Vijay’s previous movies had been dubbed in other languages, the popularity of Master’s dubs in Telugu and Hindi on Prime Video helped elevate Vijay’s pan-Indian success.

This pan-Indian fame continued with Vijay’s sophomore teaming with Kanagaraj, this time joining the director’s cinematic universe (nicknamed “Lokiverse”). Playing the titular character in Leo (2023), Vijay proved that he’s only getting better with age. He gets enough space to deliver whistle-worthy one-liners and relatively violent action sequences. Leo’s release on Netflix was equally successful with the original Tamil version trending along with Hindi, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam dubs.

What makes Kaththi Vijay’s best movie?

Ghilli and Mersal serve as close contenders as Vijay’s best movie but Kaththi can be crowned as the Tamil actor’s finest work so far. As is the case with numerous other Vijay movies, Kaththi also finds him in a dual role. But the stark contrast between the two characters allows him to display his dramatic range like never before. With one of the heroes also being an idealist and farmer rights advocate, Vijay gets to deliver some of the most rousing monologues of his career.

Where to stream Vijay’s filmography?

Most of Vijay’s best films can be streamed on mainstream platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. However, some can be streamed exclusively on predominantly Tamil-heavy services like Sun NXT and other Indian platforms like Eros Now.

Deepika Padukone has been a mainstay in Bollywood since 2007 and her career has only gone upwards ever since, establishing her among the industry’s highest-paid actors. From period pieces like Bajirao Masatani and Padmaavat to romantic dramas like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Tamasha, Padukone has had a diverse filmography within a little over a decade. She also redefined action heroine tropes in Bollywood with a lead role in the YRF Spy Universe entry Pathaan and an extended cameo in Jawan.

And it’s true that every once in a while a commercial and critical failure like Gehraiyaan might pop up in her track record but the vast consensus of her movies establish herself as a tour de force in Bollywood.

Deepika Padukone broke out with Om Shanti Om

Deepika Padukone’s pre-fame projects include a stint as a dancer on the music video for Himesh Reshammiya’s “Naam Hai Tera” and her film debut in the 2006 Kannada rom-com Aishwarya.

But it is her leading turn as a yesteryear Bollywood actress (and her reborn avatar) in Om Shanti Om that put her on the map with Bollywood. While just a newcomer in Hindi films back then, she stood out with a charming performance opposite an already-established megastar like Shah Rukh Khan.

Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan’s creative partnership continued in many other successful projects like Chennai Express, Happy New Year, and Jawan.

She appeared in some of the best female-led films of the 2010s

While Padukone has starred in some iconicng pairings with leading men like Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, and her co-star-turned-husband Ranveer Singh, the actress has also made her mark as a standout performer in solo-led ventures. Notable cases in point include the rousing gender rights drama Chhapak in which she played a character inspired by real-life acid attack survivor and activist Laxmi Aggarwal.

Another notable movie that primarily featured on Padukone’s performance was the hilarious road trip comedy Piku. The actress played the titular heroine, a career-driven architect who shares a turbulent relationship with her perpetually constipated father (played to perfection by Amitabh Bachchan). 

Even her collaborations with Ranveer Singh and director Sajay Leela Bhansali have offered some uplifting female performances of contemporary Bollywood. There’s Padmaavat, for instance, in which she played a self-righteous queen. While she’s doesn’t enter the battlefield herself, Padukone’s understated performance and characterisation doesn’t reduce the mythical figure into a damsel in distress either. The same can be said for her role of the warrior princess Mastani in Bajirao Mastani and an Indianised Juliet in the Romeo and Juliet adaptation Ram-Leela.

xXx: Return of Xander Cage marked Padukone’s Hollywood debut

Deepika Padukone also had a brief detour to Hollywood when she was paired opposite Vin Diesel in xXx: Return of Xander Cage in 2017. Despite mixed critical reviews, the third instalment of the xXx franchise was a huge hit at the global box-office and allowed Padukone to display her star power overseas. With enough stunt scenes as the xXx Program agent Serena Unger, Padukone also got an early chance to prove her potential as an action star.

The Reasoning Behind Ranking Deepika Padukone’s Best Movies

Critical acclaim plays a major factor in ranking the best of Deepika Padukone’s work, particularly the praise that her characters generated in particular. Another aspect to keep in mind is how much Padukone’s character stands out be it as Naina in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani or Shanti Priya in Om Shanti Om.

Given that she’s a household name in India, commercial performances of her movies also hold weight although not in all cases. So, while Chhapak and Tamasha didn’t mint much money, they were regardless notable career highlights for the leading lady.

Where can I watch Deepika Padukone’s filmography? 

All of Deepika Padukone’s best films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video while some can be streamed on exclusively Indian platforms like Eros Now and Jio Cinema.

From his dynamic debut in Band Baaja Baarat to his numerous gritty collaborations with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and co-star/wife Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh has carved his own multi-genre niche in Bollywood. While he also makes headlines for his hyperactive energy and bizarrely flashy wardrobe choices, Singh is all bark but also all bite in terms of his acting.

The actor is a chameleon who loves changing colours with every role, be it a mild-mannered robber in Lootera or a deranged invader in Padmaavat. Singh has had critical and commercial misfires at times, as is evident from forgettable credits in his filmography like Gunday and Cirkus. But overall, Singh has found himself playing lead and supporting parts in some of contemporary Bollywood's finest productions. 

Here's a glance at Ranveer Singh in all his dramatic, comedic, and romantic glory. 

Lootera (2013)

Ranveer Singh was already on his way to becoming a mainstream star with his debut. But his third screen credit Lootera is the movie that allowed him to shine as a critical darling. Arguably his most understated performance, Singh shines in this period romance by Vikramaditya Motwane that takes inspiration from O Henry’s tragic short story The Last Leaf. Singh is introduced as a soft-spoken archeologist who strikes an unlikely romance with a nobleman's daughter in 1950s-era India. As the plot thickens, the protagonist's true intentions are revealed and Singh plays out his moral dilemmas in an exceptionally muted performance. Lootera is enough to disprove the cynics who feel Singh only relies on over-the-top theatrics.

Gully Boy (2019)

Inspired by the rags-to-riches stories of Mumbai rappers Divine and Naezy, Gully Boy is a pseudo-biopic that offers a career highlight for Singh. Featuring many real-life Indian hip-hop veterans, the film is a grounded love letter to the underdog Indian MCs who have made their own mark in a country where independent music is still in a nascent stage. Singh not only experiments with the naivety and earnestness that his character Murad evokes but he also gets to rap on several songs within Gully Boy.

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)

Collaborating with good friends like the director Karan Johar and heroine Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh seems to be in his comfort zone in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. But that doesn't reduce this delightful 2023 rom-com to a formulaic and lethargic effort. Instead, Johar succeeds at crafting a self-aware satire on the genre itself while unexpectedly touching on emotional undertones with a premise involving cross-cultural romances in India.

A polar opposite to Bhatt's sophisticated journalist Rani, Singh’s spoilt brat Rocky Randhawa is a likable hero. He might come off as too loud and extravagant on the surface but he harbours an emotional vulnerability that only bears testimony to Singh's praise-worthy range as an actor.

Bajirao Mastani (2015)

Sanjay Leela Bhansali loves revisionist histories, especially when they feature his recurring muses Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone. Singh stars as the valiant military chieftain Bajirao who ends up falling for Padukone’s charming warrior princess Mastani. Also thrown in the mix is Bajirao's own wife Kashibai, classily played to perfection by Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The ill-fated romance that ensues is worthy of catching the audience's eye, more so in the backdrop of Bhansali's quintessential tropes like grandiose set pieces, atmospheric battles, and rousing musical numbers.

Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)

Before Gully Boy, Ranveer Singh joined forces with director Zoya Akhtar for her dysfunctional family comedy-drama Dil Dhadakne Do. For a change, Singh didn't get top billing and played a supporting character, playing Anil Kapoor and Shefali Shah’s on-screen son and Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ on-screen brother. All the aforementioned actors end up delivering some of the most hilarious and snarkiest performances of their career. Singh stands out with a relatively toned-down performance, brimming with the emotional fragility of a business magnate’s spoilt yet burdened son.

Padmaavat (2018)

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s controversial and ambitiously grand reinterprets the myth of the queen Padmavati who refused to bow down to the invading ruler Allaudin Khalji in medieval India. Historical accuracy is not the concern here as Bhansali is focused on crafting the grandest sets in his career while Ranveer Singh relies on method acting to delve into the villainous frenzy of Khalji. Whether it is him dancing out power moves on the song “Khali Bali” or just terrorising everyone around him, Singh proves how compelling he can be as a villain too.

Band Baaja Baarat (2010)

Ranveer Singh’s first film marked one of the most promising Bollywood debuts of the 2010s. This is perhaps because the streetsmart Delhi boy Bitto Sharma exemplifies a playful energy that comes so naturally to Singh. Sharing impeccable screen chemistry with Anushka Sharma as the co-lead, the duo’s misadventures offer a hilarious and insightful look at the wedding organising industry of India.

Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013)

An Indianised take on the ever-tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet, real-life lovebird Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone play the ill-fated lovers. The story is set in a town plagued by two warring families that have been going at each other’s throats for more than 500 years. However, when a passionate romance brews between Ram and Leela, the repercussions are equally intense. But at least, even the pain plays out beautifully, thanks to recurring collaborator Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s eye for splendour. It is his direction and the leads’ believable romance that add depth to Ram-Leela despite it being an adaptation of a story that many already know of.

Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl  (2011)

While Ranveer Singh hasn’t acted in that many remakes, his sophomore romantic-comedy Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl was directly remade from John Tucker Must Die. And yet the Indian twist to the story brimmed with originality, thanks to the quirks added by Parineeti Chopra in a standout role as one of the women betrayed by Bahl. Singh plays the titular Casanova who plays with the hearts of multiple women until they team up to take him down. This Hollywood remake might not offer Singh’s most challenging role but considering that this was his second movie, the actor is perfectly in control of his then-emerging stardom.

83 (2021)

The Indian cricket team’s fascinating journey to winning the sport’s World Cup in 1983 makes for a cinematic underdog epic, as is evident from Kabir Khan’s ensemble drama 83. Singh leads the pack of players, donning the moustache and bravado of the team’s captain Kapil Dev. The movie’s runtime might deter some audiences but 83 is a perfect tribute to the country’s most popular sport with Singh getting to deliver some rousing monologues and display his real-life counterpart’s charismatic traits.

Dhoom was one of contemporary Bollywood’s first franchises, and its impact can still be felt in the Indian action genre. A studio known for its romances more than anything else, Yash Raj Films decided to enter the action genre when it greenlit Dhoom (2004). The heist thriller ended up igniting a craze for sports bikes in the country and turned John Abraham into a full-fledged star after he played the villainous biker gang leader Kabir Sharma.

The late Sanjay Gadhvi helmed the direction of both Dhoom and its sequel Dhoom 2 (2006). While the latter upped the franchise’s scope by throwing in more foreign locations and roping in stars like Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai, Dhoom 3 (2013) set even higher standards for the franchise with more sophisticated stunts, a narrative almost entirely set in Chicago, and the inclusion of bankable stars like Aamir Khan and Katrina Kaif.

From the franchise’s title song “Dhoom Machale” to the bike chases and heist sequences, the Dhoom trilogy might have polarised critics but for the Bollywood audience, it has set a benchmark in action filmmaking. Here’s how to watch all the Dhoom movies.

The Dhoom movies follow the same order as their release date

Each movie in the Dhoom franchise follows the same chronological order as the year of its release. So, all three movies can be conveniently watched as per their numbers.

Dhoom 3 opens with a flashback but it just sets up the backstory of the newly-introduced villain Sahir (Aamir Khan), keeping the recurring characters’ stories from the previous films intact.

Dhoom movies at a glance

Dhoom introduced the Mumbai cop ACP Jai Dixit (Abhishek Bachchan) teaming up with novice mechanic Ali (Uday Chopra) to take on a biker gang responsible for committing several robberies. John Abraham played the gang’s leader.

Dhoom 2 served as a direct sequel even though Jai and Ali were the only returning characters. This time, the duo attempts to prevent a heist by the mysterious expert thief known simply as “A” (Hrithik Roshan). With the villain’s tendency to steal priceless artefacts from all over the world, this sequel made room for some stunning international heists. Aishwarya Rai was also a notable addition in the sequel as she plays a morally grey character who seems to be both an ally to the cops and the thief.

Dhoom 3 followed the same approach as Dhoom 2 in the sense that it featured an all-new mission for Jai and Ali (without any other characters returning). Borrowing a page out of Christopher Nolan’s The Prestige, director Vijay Krishna Acharya (who had also penned the screenplays of the previous two Dhoom movies) carved a detailed backstory for the villain this time. Aamir Khan, in a fascinating dual role, played the illusionist thief Sahir and his naïve twin brother Samar, both of whom team up to take down the bank they believed caused the death of their father.

With numerous high-octane bike chases (one with even an auto-rickshaw involved), Dhoom 3 took the franchise’s action a notch higher. Fleshing out the villain’s origins also offered Aamir Khan to evoke sympathy out of his characters, something that hadn’t really been achieved with the villains of the first two Dhoom movies.

Why are the Dhoom movies obsessed with bikes?

Interestingly, Yash Raj Films supremo and the franchise’s producer Aditya Chopra initially envisioned Dhoom to feature car chases instead of the ones on bike. But it was director Sanjay Ghadvi who convinced Chopra to side with the two-wheelers so that he could show the lead characters’ faces more clearly.

Further, Gadhvi had a personal bias towards motorcycles as the late director’s interview with Rediff suggests. To quote Gadhvi, “I was crazy about bikes in my youth. When you speed them up, and the wind hits your face, it gives you a rush that you cannot get in a car.”

The Dhoom trilogy led to a video game and a comic

The Dhoom franchise wasn’t just limited to movies. In 2012, Ali actor Uday Chopra authored a 98-page comic titled Dhoom – Redux 893. Considering that it was published a year before Dhoom 3, it’s possible the comic dealt with a mission set before the third movie. In this comic published by Yomics (the graphic novel division under Yash Raj Films), Jai and Ali found themselves dealing with a Japanese Yakuza gang in Mumbai.

Dhoom 3 also spawned a video game of the same name for Android and iOS phones with the gameplay mainly revolving around Aamir Khan’s character riding around Chicago on his bike after successfully conducting a string of high-profile heists.

The son of legendary Bollywood screenwriter Salim Khan, Salman Khan carved his own niche in Hindi-language films as a leading man in romances, comedies, action thrillers, and a long line of remakes of South Indian films. Even if a considerable chunk of his latter movies has polarised critics, he gained favourable reactions from his devoted legions of fans who affectionately call him “Sallu Bhai”.

While he broke out thanks to romantic portrayals in Sooraj Barjatya’s family-friendly dramas in the 1990s (starting with Maine Pyaar Kiya), the Tiger 3 star successfully rebranded himself as an action star with successful franchises like Dabangg and the Tiger series (that kicked off the YRF Spy Universe). Every now and then, Khan also stars in comedies most of which present the actor’s amusingly eccentric slapstick timing.

Here’s a look at the very best of Salman Khan’s filmography.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)

In the mid-2010s, it seemed like Salman Khan was content only with no-brainer action flicks. And then came Bajrangi Bhaijaan, a cross-border drama powered by Khan’s heartwarming portrayal as the titular character. Khan’s Bajrangi is a naive Indian do-gooder who makes it his goal to safely get a lost Pakistani girl back to her homeland. Cherished by critics and audiences alike, Bajrangi Bhaijaan proves how Khan can balance adorable comedic timing and tear-jerking emotional prowess.

Hum Aapke Hai Koun…! (1994)

Sooraj Barjatya’s brand of ensemble family romances mostly played around with the idea that the entire household can join a romantic narrative instead of just the film’s lead pair. Hum Aapke Hai Koun… can arguably be his best work in this canon, showcasing some memorable performances from Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit in the lead. Starting out with a meet-cute love story and then throwing in familial responsibilities to complicate the romance, Hum Aapke Hai Koun established 90s Bollywood tropes for many other romantic comedy dramas that followed.

Wanted (2009)

The 2000s had been a turbulent era for Salman Khan with a hit-and-miss filmography. And then came Prabhu Deva’s Wanted which firmly established him as an action star. A remake of the Telugu blockbuster Pokiri, Wanted found Khan playing a lovable goon who goes against a powerful gangster. Wanted is also a cult classic for how it established South character actor Prakash Raj as the go-to bad guy in Bollywood

Andaz Apna Apna (1994)

For the cynics who believe Salman Khan can’t be funny, Andaz Apna Apna will be enough to change their minds. He, along with fellow superstar Aamir Khan, played one-half of a streetsmart duo who navigate through absurd romances and outlandish mobsters in their quest to make money. Unabashedly slapstick in its approach, Andaz Apna Apna flopped in its time but has become a beloved classic over the years with quotable dialogues and unforgettable characters like Shakti Kapoor’s mustachioed Crime Master Gogo.

Maine Pyar Kiya (1989)

Maine Pyar Kiya was the movie that established Salman Khan as a leading man. While his pairing with heroine Bhagyashree went down as one of the most iconic Bollywood couples, the Sooraj Barjatya film also established the trope of familial differences obstructing a romance (a trope that would be fleshed out further with Bollywood hits like Shah Rukh Khan’s 1995 blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge).

Dabangg (2010)

Marking the debut of Salman Khan’s Rayban-wearing vigilante cop Chulbul “Robinhood” Pandey, Dabangg subverted the mainstream Bollywood action by parodying the genre with self-aware humour. Dabangg is a notable highlight in Khan’s career as it allowed its leading man to take the joke on himself while shining as an action star in the 2010s.

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s tragiromance Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam starts on a note comparable to Salman Khan’s previous collaborations with Sooraj Barjatya. But the way the story takes a drastic turn with heartbreak and loss, the 1999 film features Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and even Ajay Devgn (in a supporting appearance) at the best of their emotional capabilities.

Sultan (2016) 

The sports drama Sultan was released around a fitting time in Salman Khan’s career. With over-the-top action thrillers like Race 3, Jai Ho, and Kick to his name, Khan was being panned by critics and even some of his fans. Sultan proved how he still has what it takes to experiment with different projects. Set around a wrestler who aspires to move to MMA, Sultan doesn’t mindlessly glamorise its leading man. Instead, Salman Khan’s hero does go through moments of downfall, only to rise like a true Rocky-like underdog.

Ek Tha Tiger (2012)

The film that kicked off the YRF Spy Universe is also one of the franchise’s finest offerings. Starring Khan as Indian secret agent Tiger and Katrina Kaif as his Pakistani counterpart Zoya, Ek Tha Tiger doubles as a nail-biting espionage thriller (with fair share of realistic action sequences) and an unexpected romance that allegorically represents cross-border peace.

Partner (2007)

Salman Khan has acted in many remakes of Hollywood and South Indian films but a film like Partner proves how he can add his own twist on the original source material. Stepping in for Will Smith’s casanova in this Hitch remake, Partner is steered by Khan’s effortless performance as a “love guru” and Govinda who plays an introverted man who seeks his help. Their collective chemistry gives Partner its own voice from merely reducing it to a Hollywood remake.

Khamoshi: The Musical (1996) 

The first collaboration between Khan and auteur Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Khamoshi: The Musical has everything that makes a quintessential Bhansali film. A heartfelt romance. A rousing music score. And grandiose art direction. And yet it flopped perhaps because it was ahead of its time. Offering a career-best performance by Manisha Koirala as the caring daughter of a deaf couple, the now-cult classic also features a surprisingly touching turn by Khan as an artist who reignites a musical passion in Koirala’s protagonist.

Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999)

The pinnacle of Salman Khan-Sooraj Barjatya partnerships, Hum Saath Saath Hain might seem a tad bit outdated with its core emphasis on balancing family values with individual romance. But still, when viewed as a product of the 1990s, the family drama-cum-romantic comedy does make for an interesting watch featuring the charming bravado of Khan in his “loverboy” prime.

No Entry (2005)

Perhaps the raunchiest of Salman Khan’s comedies, No Entry starred him as a womanising friend who wrecks the marital bliss of his friends. And, of couse, this comedy of errors names Khan’s character Prem (an obvious callback to the previous characters he played with the same name). No Entry was also notable for revitalising Anees Bazmee’s status as a comedy director while establishing Khan’s co-star Anil Kapoor as a reliable supporting actor in his latter years.

Maine Pyaar Kyu Kiya? (2005)

Maine Pyaar Kyu Kiya is yet another of Khan’s Hollywood remakes (this time the 60s comedy Cactus Flower that later became the Adam Sandler-led comedy Just Go With It). The David Dhawan-directed comedy took satirical jabs at Khan’s previous romances too along the way. With Khan playing a womanising daughter caught between two women (Sushmita Sen and Katrina Kaif), the movie offered him an opportunity to step out of his Romeo image and play more morally flawed heroes.

Tere Naam (2003) 

Although Salman Khan’s antihero Radhe is definitely a walking red flag in this ill-fated romance, Tere Naam was a watershed moment in Khan’s career. While portraying an emotionally turbulent gangster who is changed forever after falling for a mild-mannered girl, Tere Naam offers one of the actor’s most riveting performances.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is definitely a career milestone for Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukherji but it also offers an interesting extended cameo with Salman Khan playing the groom-to-be Aman Mehra. In fact, one of the most dramatic scenes of this Karan Johar-directed classic finds Aman stepping down from the altar as he knows his fiance loves someone else.

Tiger Zinda Hai (2017)

Raising the stakes of fast-paced action and the turbulent drama, Tiger Zinda Hai is a worthy follow-up to Ek Tha Tiger. It might not match its predecessor but the improved technical aspects in terms of the multi-location cinematography and adrenaline-fueled stunt choreography, Tiger Zinda Hai offers hope for the future of action in mainstream Bollywood.

Judwaa (1997)

Starring Salman Khan in a dual role, Judwaa is David Dhawan at his illogical best. You don’t need to scratch your brain while watching this comedy of errors as Khan amps up the humour as twin brothers Raja and Prem. Inspired by the Telugu film Hello Brother (which itself was remade from the Jackie Chan-starrer Twin Dragons), Judwaa is yet another of Khan’s remakes that gets a voice of its own.

Yuvvraaj (2008)

One of Salman Khan’s most underrated films, Subhash Ghai’s musical drama Yuvvraj stars Khan as a promising singer who gets embroiled in a clash between his brothers as they struggle to inherit their father’s fortune. Lavish set-pieces, a soothing soundtrack, and committed performances by Khan and Anil Kapoor (who plays his manipulative estranged brother) make Yuvvraj worth revisiting.

Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004)

A clash between Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar to woo the same lady (one of Priyanka Chopra’s early Bollywood roles), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi is a simple rom-com that’s elevated with individual moments of situational humour, thanks to not just Khan and Kumar’s goofy nature but also with the contributions of character actors like Amrish Puri and Rajpal Yadav.

Salaam-e-Ishq (2007)

A romantic anthology exploring the different shades of love, Salaam-e-Ishq is synonymous with the song “Tenu Leke” that found Khan donning a bridegroom’s attire and riding a white horse on the streets of London. Divided into six segments with an ensemble cast starring the most popular actors of the time, Salaam-e-Ishq offers some good, old 2000s nostalgia before Khan fully made the move to action blockbusters.

Heroes (2008)

In a career mostly comprising of lead roles, Khan can be quite a revelation in his supporting acts. Heroes is an example that stars him as a martyred soldier in the Indian Army. The movie plays out in the backdrop of three letters, each of which represent a war hero’s love for their nation and their family. Humanising its militaristic heroes instead of merely glamorising their acts of valour, Heroes is an interesting look at the morality of war.

Baghban (2003)

The movie that was broadcast infinitely on the Indian channel SET Max, Baghban is Indian melodrama at its peak. Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini lead the ensemble as an aging couple who are pushed to the brink of separation by their unafficionate children. A grateful exception among their children is the adopted orphan Alok Malhotra. The film might be bogged down by its runtime but it has somehow managed to stay relevant through its commentary on the breakdown of Indian families. Just try not watching it with parents! You might just end up getting a moral lecture later.

Jaan-E-Mann (2006)

For those who think Sallu Bhai doesn’t have emotional range, they should just have a glimpse at Khan’s Suhaan Kapoor crying at Brooklyn Bridge as the sun goes down. A love triangle between Khan, Preity Zinta, and Akshay Kumar’s characters, Shirish Kunder’s directorial debut Jaan-E-Mann doesn’t really boast a very original story and screenplay. Yet, it’s just the heartbreaking pain that drives Khan’s hero in the latter half that makes Jaan-E-Mann worth adding to the average Salman Khan fan’s watchlist.

Karan Arjun (1995)

Watching a movie like Karan Arjun in today’s time would seem ridiculous. It is, after all, a movie about two brothers who get brutally killed only to avenge their deaths after being reborn in another life! Still, it is an amusing time capsule of sorts in the way the revenge drama displays some classic tropes of the quintessential Bollywood mass-entertainer. And further, before the YRF Spy Universe made Tiger and Pathaan’s meetings more frequent, Karan-Arjun was a rare opportunity to see Shah Rukh Khan share screen space with Salman Khan.

From the latter seasons of Attack on Titan to originals like Chainsaw Man, MAPPA has surely established itself among the most influential anime studios in recent times. Its reign on streaming platforms is evident from trending titles like the sophomore season of shounen anime Jujutsu Kaisen (or JJK as fans call it) which occupied a spot on Netflix India’s Top 10 lists for more than ten weeks.

Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 goes on to prove how far MAPPA has come with regard to the quality of animation and subversive narratives. But the Japanese studio had already established its supremacy before Jujutsu Kaisen. Here are some of MAPPA’s finest works that put it on the map. 

Vinland Saga

The lore of Vikings has been done to death in Hollywood with the notorious Norse viewers even getting revisionist treatments like the History Channel original Vikings and Robert Eggers' barbaric take on Hamlet, The Northman. It's only ironic that an anime still subverts this action subgenre like never before. Balancing blood-soaked action pieces with surprisingly profound moments of introspection, Vinland Saga's second season was produced and animated by MAPPA.

While its debut season stands out on its own, Vinland Saga season 2 spectacularly transformed its protagonist Thorfinn from a reckless vengeance-seeking teen to a meditative adult who tries his best to step away from bloodshed. With enough moments of inspirational pacifism and peace-evoking visuals of natural landscapes, Vinland Saga's second season offers some of MAPPA's most beautiful anime frames. But the dark overtones are still more than evident in goosebump-raising moments of violence, proving how the anime studio is not afraid to adapt some truly disturbing manga.

Attack On Titan

Just as the case was with Vinland Saga, Attack on Titan was initially produced by Wit Studio. It's only after season 3 that the baton was passed to MAPPA. The decision was clearly monumental in elevating Hajime Isayama's iconic manga to new visual heights. From animating the anime's watershed moment Rumbling to adding more details to the fast-paced group fight sequences in the final season, MAPPA's involvement did help in drastically improving the quality of Attack on Titan. As a dark fantasy anime, AoT lives up to its cult status with a socio-political arc that goes beyond just a mere battle between humans and Titans. Instead, Isayama's commentary on the futility of conflict ends up as an anime story for the ages.

Jujutsu Kaisen

With formulaic elements seen in previous light-hearted shounen anime like Naruto, Jujustu Kaisen could have been just another entry in its genre’s pantheon. Rather, the kinetic energy with which the show’s first two seasons transpired, Jujutsu Kaisen has turned into one of MAPPA’s most profitable properties. High-schooler Yuji Itadori’s adventures with the supernatural secret organisation Jujutsu Sorcerers make for a delightful coming-of-age arc. The anime benefits greatly from well-rounded characters like fan-favourite Satoru Gojo and equally impressive byproducts like the blockbuster theatrical release Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Chainsaw Man

Walking in the footsteps of self-aware anime satires like One Punch Man, Chainsaw Man stands out with its excessive gore and hilariously absurd characters. The titular protagonist Denji is an amusing character study on his own. Unlike other MAPPA anime heroes, Denji isn’t driven by any lofty ambitions to become the greatest. Rather, his life goals are pretty simple, mostly being reduced to getting enough food for the day. As he gets involved with a group hellbent on eradicating monsters, Denji must rely on his blood-stained avatar to save the people of his city. Despite Denji’s naive humour being the talking point of the series, Chainsaw Man proves MAPPA animators’ expertise in framing grandiose fighting sequences (with extra showers of blood in this case).

Yuri!!! On Ice

Redefining sports anime tropes and shattering gender stereotypes, Yuri!!! On Ice delves into the intricacies of the figure skating world. Drawing critical acclaim for addressing anxiety and homosexuality in Japan, the MAPPA original was ahead of its time when it premiered in 2016. Matters get more interesting in this binge-worthy anime with the cutthroat competitions among the skaters, the glittery costumes and just the magical charm of walking on ice. Particular attention has been given to the skating sequences with Japanese figure skating legend Kenji Miyamoto choreographing and performing the routines himself. Yuri!!! On Ice’s impact can be seen with ice skaters performing to the show’s music during the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Hell’s Paradise

A band of prisoners and the ninjas supervising them must survive on an island that isn’t what it looks like. Hell’s Paradise is quite a contrast within itself as it pairs a psychedelic colour palette with some truly grim character arcs. The island on which the story unfolds is adorned with multi-coloured flora and fauna while scenes in the Japanese mainland also highlight the architectural brilliance of Edo-period Japan. The ninja Gabimaru and his executioner Yamada Asaemon Sagiri also make for an incredible pair, each of the two warriors dealing with loneliness and loss as they head out to find the elixir of immortality. 

Kakegurui

Kakegurui is bound to make viewers curious from merely its outlandish premise. Set in a private school that is run by gambling games, the titular heroine makes her presence felt with her gambling addiction. Decoding the cheating tactics of her fellow students, Kakegurui ends up disrupting the social order of her elite academy. But don’t let the card games fool you as this Netflix-distributed MAPPA anime has some moments of relentless action once the cards have been folded. With scenes involving stabbed eyeballs and ripped fingernails, Kakegurui can be too bizarre for some but the ones who can stomach their fair share of the quintessential MAPPA gore and absurdity will be rewarded.

Banana Fish

With a single season of 24 episodes, Banana Fish makes for a perfect binge. Despite a 2010s setting, the stylish action thriller has a retro 80s-inspired visual feel to it. At the same time, the premise is layered with the haunting realities of the early 2000s such as a mind-control conspiracy relating to the US-Iraq War. The central storyline involves a New York gang leader and a photojournalist’s attempts to decipher the mystery of a substance codenamed “Banana Fish”. As the unlikely duo gets closer to the truth, a brilliant political conspiracy unfurls that clearly makes this one of MAPPA’s most realistic animes.

Re-Main

Every once in a while, MAPPA produces an anime that is not about any high-stakes challenges or hyperviolent action. Re-Main is one such example, playing out as a feel-good story about regaining one’s identity. The hero in this case is the water polo champion Minato Kiyomizu who loses his memory after a coma that lasts for three years. Seeking to make up for the years that passed him by, Re-Main offers a feel-good viewing experience that can provide a relaxing break away from the usual hullabaloo of MAPPA originals.

Dorohedoro

Dorohedoro might be overshadowed by other MAPPA anime but this underrated gem on Netflix set the stage for comedic anime in the studio’s roster like the far more popular Chainsaw Man. Still, Dorohedoro holds its own ground while exploring a post-apocalyptic world dominated by sorcerers and mutant creatures. The titular hero is an amnesiac reptilian humanoid who seeks answers to undo a curse that turned him into a beast. Equipped with enough slapstick gags, deadpan humour, and genre parodies, Dorohedoro is worth checking out for its easygoing tonality. It just goes on to prove how willing MAPPA is to experiment with all sorts of manga, even the strange ones like Dorohedoro.

From the Munnabhai series to collaborations with Aamir Khan and now an immigration-themed comedy with Shah Rukh Khan, Bollywood director Rajkumar Hirani has cemented his position in the industry as a maestro of family-friendly comedies. Beginning his career as a film editor and ad director, Hirani broke out with his debut feature Munnabhai MBBS. Ever since then, he has managed to deliver nothing but hits.

The director eyes another potential blockbuster this December, joining forces with megastar Shah Rukh Khan for the first time. Titled Dunki (a local iteration of the word “donkey”), the comedy-drama chronicles the journey of Indians who aspire to immigrate to the West but through illegal means. As is the case with the rest of his filmography, Dunki promises to deliver on all the elements that make a quintessential Rajkumar Hirani movie: a heartwarming message, clean humour with a naïve charm and a Christmas release window (much like 3 Idiots and PK).

But before Dunki, it’s worth glancing at all the major highlights of Hirani’s directorial career.

PK (2014)

PK very evidently borrows tropes from pre-existing sci-fi dramas like E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial and The Man Who Fell To Earth, in telling its story of an alien desperately searching for a radio that can beam him back home. But what sets Hirani’s sci-fi comedy apart is the emphasis on India’s multi-religious identity as the titular extraterrestrial (played to deadpan perfection by Aamir Khan) ends up questioning gods and religions in the pursuit of his radio.

When it comes to socio-political aspects of his cinema, Hirani has often played it safe for the mainstream audiences that he caters to. But PK is perhaps his boldest work, one that ended up garnering controversy even before its release. And yet, the movie deserves to be watched universally as it’s definitely no hateful attack against organised religion. Instead, it just respectfully poses questions on how religion can be maligned and misinterpreted by false prophets. From Khan’s slapstick routine as the childish alien to an emotional romantic subplot transcending national borders, PK has it all and endures as Hirani’s finest work.

3 Idiots (2009)

If there’s a Rajkumar Hirani movie that comes close to PK, it is his first collaboration with Aamir Khan. While it’s loosely inspired by Chetan Bhagat’s polarising bestseller Five Point Someone, 3 Idiots removes the raunchiness of the novel and adopts a more sanitised approach better suited for Hirani’s work. The end result is an influential commentary on the nature of engineering colleges in India, anchored by unforgettable performances from the titular idiots played by Khan, Sharman Joshi and R Madhavan. Equally unforgettable is character actor Boman Irani played the Einstein-haired authoritarian college principal nicknamed “Virus”.

What makes 3 Idiots all the more enduring is how relatable it has been for engineering students in India, especially the ones who are burdened by their families to pursue a scientific course like this. The tragic scene of a promising student’s demise is still as goosebump-inducing as it was back in the day. But then again, the movie has its fair share of laughs, thanks to the sheepish nerd “Silencer” played effortlessly by Omi Vaidya (who was previously notable only for appearing in an episode of The Office). This balance between dark and light-hearted is what makes Hirani so relevant after more than a decade since the movie was released.

Munnabhai MBBS (2003)

While 3 Idiots served as a conscious commentary on the state of Indian engineering colleges, Munnabhai MBBS was an unabashed laughter ride set within a generic medical college. Marking a full-fledged comeback for Sanjay Dutt and rebranding him as a comedic star, Munnabhai MBBS played out as an enjoyable joyride for all ages. The title alludes to a local hoodlum in Mumbai who sets out to mend his ways by pursuing a medical degree.

The comedy might lack the dramatic impact of 3 Idiots or PK but it still has its fair share of Bollywood melodrama to make viewers sympathise with an unruly hero like Dutt’s Munnabhai. An equally impressive character is Munnabhai’s loyal sidekick Circuit, played with impressive comic timing by Arshad Warsi.

Lage Raho Munnabhai (2006)

The follow-up to Munnabhai MBBS is more of a spiritual sequel as it completely strays away from its medical college premise to craft a Gandhian fantasy instead. Munnabhai is yet again introduced as a “tapori” (Mumbai slang for vagabond or rowdy) but when he seeks out to help residents of an old age home, he surprisingly gets aid from a hallucinatory vision of Indian freedom fighter and human rights champion Mahatma Gandhi.

Instead of glamorising the politics of Gandhi, Hirani stresses on the importance of simple Gandhian values like non-violence and respect for human dignity as Munnabhai inadvertently ends up inspiring others to pick up such positive habits. Still, what stops Lage Raho Munnabhai from being Hirani’s absolute best is perhaps the long runtime and the overabundance on sentimentality as Munna starts questioning his own sanity after his Gandhian experiments.

Sanju (2018)

Rajkumar Hirani’s last film before Dunki is also possibly his weakest, primarily for the treatment of its subject matter. On the surface, Sanju is a biopic on actor Sanjay Dutt (Hirani’s collaborator and close friend since the Munnabhai movies). But like many mainstream Bollywood biopics, Hirani’s movie relies heavily on creative liberties. While Dutt indeed has had a tumultuous life worthy of a film adaptation, Sanju blurs the line between fact and fiction to such a point that it might get difficult for audiences to watch without any scepticism.

Sanju covers some particularly uncomfortable moments in Dutt’s life, such as his drug addiction and eventual arrest on suspicion of terrorism and arms possession. It can still be debated if Dutt was always a squeaky-clean personality (ignoring the rowdy phase of his career) but Sanju’s excessive whitewashing of its real-life muse leaves a bittersweet taste.

Drawing inspiration from franchises like James Bond and Mission: Impossible and obviously the trendsetting Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), YRF Films successfully made the leap from Bollywood romances to big-budget action thrillers with its monumental YRF Spy Universe. This is not India’s first and only cinematic universe, considering that Rohit Shetty had already set up his over-the-top Cop Universe with Singham and Simmba. The Tamil film industry is also not far behind with director Lokesh Kanagaraj setting up his Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU) with Kaithi and Vikram.

But when it comes to box-office returns and sheer star power, YRF Spy Universe seems unbeatable at the moment. With the production and story most laid out by YRF supremo Aditya Chopra and roping in Bollywood’s most venerated personalities like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, the franchise is Indian cinema’s most successful franchise at the moment. The year 2023 proved to be a watershed moment in this regard, witnessing the releases of Pathaan and Tiger 3 (both of which also made MCU-style cameos more mainstream in Bollywood). With five successful hits in its roster and upcoming titles like War 2 and Tiger vs Pathaan, the YRF Spy Universe definitely knows no stopping.

Pathaan (2023)

Mainstream Bollywood was in a lull after the pandemic when it came to action movies. Shah Rukh Khan, who usually had a reputation as a romantic hero, sought to create a new star persona as an action hero. He comfortably embraced the titular character, an ex-RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent who is tasked with preventing a global terrorist conspiracy. His frequent co-star Deepika Padukone played a Pakistani secret agent, who came off as a refreshing and more contemporary take on female agents in Indian action flicks. Breaking out as the villain in Dhom, John Abraham also got back to his villainous roots to play a rogue mercenary in Pathaan.

Even when Pathaan gets unbelievably over-the-top, the star power of SRK is enough to justify the theatrics (much like how action audiences dare not question the physics of Fast & Furious movies anymore). The cherry on the top was obviously Salman Khan’s unexpected cameo as Pathaan’s fellow RAW agent Tiger. All in all, Pathaan was a perfectly packaged thriller that balanced high-stakes action with some delightfully formulaic Bollywood heroism that the audiences had been craving for quite some time.

War (2019)

Billed as a one-on-one duel between Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff, War was an unexpected hit for YRF. While the Tiger movies already constituted a franchise, it was War that opened up the possibilities for a shared universe. From an exciting plane heist that seems to be inspired by Point Break to a face mask technology clearly inspired by the Mission: Impossible movies, War did have a touch of Hollywood action to it.

But this Western influence didn’t get too derivative and instead helped in modernising the average Bollywood action thriller. Instead of Roshan or Shroff being reduced to one-man armies, War highlighted how even gifted secret agents like them need strategy, weaponry, and a good support team to rely on. Both heroes have proven their physical agility before and War set up the stage for them to display some impressive and highly realistic stunt choreography. Sanchit Balhara and Ankit Balhara’s rousing neo-Western background score only enhances the viewing experience further.

Ek Tha Tiger (2012)

The film that started the YRF Spy Universe in the first place, Ek Tha Tiger was released at a time when Salman Khan was doing everything (fighting, dancing, romancing) in potboiler dramas, most of which didn’t really fare well with the critics. But the Kabir Khan-directed Ek Tha Tiger marked a new chapter in his career as for once, Khan seemed to play a relatively believable action hero. His character Tiger interestingly represents the duality of an undercover agent, as he is conflicted between his duties as a RAW agent and leading a normal life every now and then.

Katrina Kaif was also well-suited as the co-lead Zoya, an agent for the Pakistani secret service ISI. But when Zoya and Tiger discover a conspiracy together, they not only join forces but also fall in love. The result is not just an adrenaline-fuelled action journey but also a moving love story that transcends borders. To satisfy the mainstream Bollywood necessities, the movie was also balanced with popular dance numbers like Mashallah and Banjaara along with a tragic romantic ballad like Saiyaara.

Tiger Zinda Hai (2017)

The highly-anticipated sequel to Ek Tha Tiger, this Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif reunion carried the emotional weight of its predecessor while doubling on the action pieces. Having gone into voluntary exile in the previous film, Tiger Zinda Hai finds Khan’s Tiger and Kaif’s Zoya coming out of hiding as they team up to rescue a group of nurses held hostage by terrorists in Iraq. The espionage within the plot is less complicated this time, but the big-budget action is good enough to hook audiences.

Even if the violent chaos can be too loud or unbelievable for some audiences, Tiger Zinda Hai still has a positive message underlying its straightforward plot. With Tiger and Zoya closer than ever now, the Ali Abbas Zaffar directorial venture calls for unity between India and Pakistan, two neighbouring countries that always seem to be in conflict with each other but that can hopefully come together like Tiger and Zoya one day.

Tiger 3 (2023)

As is the case with the Tiger movies, Tiger 3 amped up its action like never before. Emraan Hashmi entered the YRF Spy Universe as a vengeance-seeking terrorist with Tiger and Zoya teaming up yet again for a third adventure. The international conspiracy at the heart of the story this time is much more complicated and there are genuine attempts for freshness to the usual Spy Universe formula, but it was the pacing that troubled some critics and audiences.

Regardless, everything seems worth it with that one spectacular prison break sequence where Pathaan comes to Tiger’s rescue. It’s not every day that the two titans of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, unite for a crossover that’s on the level of a superhero team-up. One can only wonder about the reactions that their face-off will garner now, considering YRF Films is actively working on a project titled Tiger vs Pathaan.

The UPSC exam (short for Union Public Service Commission) is often regarded as one of the most Herculean tests, not just in India but in the rest of the world, too. Seen as a common yardstick of success in India, UPSC toppers end up becoming high-ranking bureaucrats, police officers, and the like.

India is a diverse country of various religions. This religious multitude is all the more evident from how Bollywood manages to cash in on major festival release windows. Shah Rukh Khan has been the king of the Diwali season from 1995’s Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to 2014’s Happy New Year. Meanwhile, his perpetual competitor Salman Khan has successfully monopolised the Eid season.

Amazon’s bloodiest crime-action series Mirzapur is all set to return for its latest season. Season 3 of Mirzapur will answer the question all fans have been asking since Season 2 ended: ‘Is Guddu Bhaiya the new king of Mirzapur?’

From the release date, to the story and star-cast, here’s everything we know about Amazon’s most popular crime-action drama.

Disclaimer: This article was last updated on 29th September, 2023. 

What will Mirzapur Season 3 be about?

*The article contains spoilers to Season 1 and Season 2. 

Following the cliffhanger ending of Season 2, Mirzapur Season 3, will most likely revolve around the power dynamics between Kaleen Bhaiyya and Guddu as the two face off against each other to rule the town of Mirzapur. The season will also confirm if everyone’s beloved character, Munna, is actually dead, and if so, it will delve deeper into the aftermath following his sudden demise. While we don’t know much about the story of Season 3 of Mirzapur as of yet, the actor Shweta Tripathi who plays the role of Golu, did add to the excitement of the upcoming season by sharing a heartfelt note on her Instragram;

“I couldn't wait to start shooting as soon as I finished reading the episodes for season 3. And now that we've completed shooting, I can't wait for all of you to watch it. Wrapped a little piece of my heart. It's been one hell of a challenging and fulfilling ride. She's one of the bravest, toughest and most endearing girls I've met. And I love her!! And this cast and crew and the biggest gems.”

When is Mirzapur Season 3 set to release? 

It’s been almost three years since the last season of Mirzapur was released. Fans have been eagerly waiting since then to find out who the new king of Mirzapur will be, but sadly, Amazon still hasn’t confirmed the new season’s release date announcement. 

Actor Ali Fazal confirmed that the series wrapped shooting for Season 3 in December, 2022 by penning down a heartfelt note on his official Instagram handle. Apart from this, the rest of the cast and crew of Mirzapur continue to remain tight lipped regarding the official release of the new season. However, if past trends are any indicator, the new season of Mirzapur is most likely scheduled to release sometime between mid October to mid November. 

Is there a trailer for Season 3?

No, sadly Amazon hasn’t released a trailer for Season 3 as of yet. However, fans are hopeful to see a trailer or at least a teaser and date announcement, drop soon in the coming few weeks given that the show is anticipated to release around Diwali. 

Finished all your movie snacks just looking for what to watch? Wipe off those butter fingers, and scroll through this fresh lineup of film recommendations based on what people have been loving lately on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Zee5, and more. 

The Top 10 Films Streaming In India 

*This list is based on data recorded between 14th August - 20th August. 

#10 Shazam! Fury of the Gods 

A direct sequel to the 2019 DC film Shazam! Fury of the Gods is an action-packed superhero flick where a band of superheroes led by Shazam fight off an army of angered gods looking to claim their powers back, and turn these superheroes back to ordinary humans. A great watch for anyone in the mood for a lot of city destruction level drama, and superhero thrills. 

Where to watch: Shazam! Fury of the Gods is currently streaming on Jio Cinema. You can also rent/buy the movie on demand, visit our website to view all the streaming options available to you in India. 

#9 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 

Keeping with the trend of superhero films, we have Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 at number 9. The final film in the famous trilogy that follows Peter Quill and his band of misfits’ as they set out into space to protect the galaxy, this film goes beyond your standard superhero storyline, and delves deeper into Rocket’s emotional backstory, and the Starlord’s grief following Gamora’s death. Packing in a feel-good playlist, several mind blowing action sequences, and a ton of wholesome moments, this film is an easy-watch for anyone looking to movies for a quick and indulgent escape from reality. 

Where to watch: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. You can also rent/buy the movie on demand, visit our website to view all the streaming options available to you in India. 

#8 1920: Horrors of the Heart 

If you’re looking for a scary movie to sink your teeth into, give 1920: Horrors of the Heart a try. A haunted house, demons, and an innocent girl seeking revenge manipulated by a powerful supernatural force, this Mahesh Bhatt thriller checks off all the parameters for a good horror flick that’ll keep you up all night.

Where to watch: 1920: Horrors of the Heart is currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. 

#7 Heart of Stone 

Want to see more of Alia Bhatt after watching Rocky Aur Rani in cinemas? Check out Netflix’s latest spy thriller Heart of Stone, where Alia Bhatt stars alongside Wonder Woman Gal Gadot and English actor Jamie Dornan. This action packed thriller not only marks the beginning of Alia’s career in Hollywood but also serves as the actors first ever role as the lead villain in a film. 

Where to watch: Heart of Stone is streaming exclusively on Netflix. 

#6 Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Based on the iconic game Dungeons and Dragons, Honor Among Thieves is a fantasy-comedy starring Chris Pine as the Edgin Darvis. The film follows him and his group of adventurers as they embark on an epic heist to reclaim a lost relic. With its light humor, loveable characters, and drool-worthy scenery, the film is an easy watch even for those that haven’t played the game before. 

Where to watch: Dungeons and Dragons Honor Amongst Thieves is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

After a decade-long wait, Akshay Kumar is all set to make his grand comeback as God in the satirical comedy Oh My God 2. The upcoming film is a sequel to the 2012 film Oh My God. A Hindi film inspired by the film The Man Who Sued God, this satirical comedy tells the story of an atheist who takes god to court after an earthquake destroys his store where he sells idols to religious worshipers. While OMG 2 is set in the same universe as its predecessor, the movie will explore an entirely new storyline, and see Akshay Kumar step into the role of a whole new deity. Keep reading to get the full scoop on OMG 2. 

What is the story of OMG?

Written and directed by Umesh Shukla, Oh My God is a supernatural comedy about Kanji, a Gujrati atheist played by Paresh Rawal who despite owning a store of Hindu idols regularly makes fun of religious activities. This is, until one day a small earthquake hits the city and destroys only his store. Desperate to fix his store Kanji visits the insurance office, however, he is denied a claim as earthquakes are classified under an act of god, which isn’t covered by insurance. Saddened by this news, Kanji turns to his family and friends for help who in turn blame his atheism as the source for all of this mess. 

Kanji, now furious with the world and god, takes matters into his own hands and in a bold move decides to sue god. With the help of a Muslim lawyer Hanif Querishi, Kanji is able to summon the insurance company, and several religious leaders appointed to act as representatives of god in court and moves forward with his case. Given the unusual and quirky nature of his case, Kanji’s court troubles go viral and attract the attention of several religious fundamentalists who attack him to drop the matter. Abandoned by his family, Kanji is all alone and in mortal danger, when a real-estate agent named Krishna (Akshay Kumar) comes to his rescue and saves him from the angry mob. Thereafter, Krishna and Kanji become fast friends, and Krishna is often seen advising Kanji on how to proceed with his case. With Krishna by his side, Kanji’s luck begins to turn and he ends up receiving a huge wave of support from other humans who also suffered losses caused by acts of god and inturn winning the court case.