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‘Bhediya’ Review: Overlong Bollywood Werewolf Comedy Delivers Powerful Environmental Message

A road work contractor's plans to destroy the jungles of Northeastern India are foiled by a werewolf in an entertaining creature feature with plenty of laughs.

By Naman Ramachandran

Naman Ramachandran

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Horror-comedy has held Indian audiences in thrall since the early 2000s, with more than 100 films in the genre being released. Amar Kaushik’s “ Bhediya ” (literally “wolf”), Bollywood’s first creature comedy, despite its punishing length, is a terrifically entertaining romp through the jungles of Northeastern India that delivers pro-environment and anti-racism messages and also has the potential to become a franchise.

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The accent in “Bhediya” is more on the often juvenile and sometimes scatological comedy than the creatures. When the creatures do appear, it is a triumph of top notch visual effects, executed by the team that also worked on blockbuster “RRR” at London’s MPC. Performances are excellent throughout with Dhawan and Sanon carrying the film with ease, but the standout is Banerjee, an actor who can pull off psychopaths and bumbling comics with equal felicity and timing.

With a running time of more than two and a half hours, the film overstays its welcome, compounded by the traditional Bollywood speed breakers of song and dance and romantic interludes, which periodically interrupt the werewolf tale plot. There are a couple of MCU-style Easter eggs in the end credits and the second of them places “Bhediya” squarely in the “Stree” universe. A franchise surely beckons.

Reviewed International Film Festival of India, Goa, Nov. 26, 2022. Running time: 152 MIN.

• Production: (India) Jio Studios & Dinesh Vijan presentation of a Maddock Films Prod. production.
• Crew: Director: Amar Kaushik. Screenplay: Niren Bhatt. Camera: Jishnu Bhattacharjee. Editor: Sanyukta Kaza. Music: Sachin Sanghvi, Jigar Saraiya.
• With: Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon, Abhishek Banerjee, Deepak Dobriyal, Paalin Kabaak.

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The 54 Best Bollywood Movies Ever

Spoiler alert: There's a lot of Shah Rukh Khan.

Classic Bollywood Movies

Best bollywood drama movies, best bollywood period dramas, best romantic bollywood movies, best thriller and horror bollywood movies.

Named "Bollywood" by movie enthusiasts, the Mumbai-based Hindi-language film industry accounts for a major portion of the global film space and continues to grow with each title it pumps out. Bollywood beats out Nigeria's Nollywood and America's Hollywood to be the world's largest film industry in terms of output and reach, with its content appealing to moviegoers in every corner of the world. But tread lightly; the term “Bollywood” is less accepted by those working in it, as it situates the industry in the shadow of its western counterpart.

With such an output—over 1,000 films released each year—it begs the question: What is it, exactly, that makes Bollywood so epic, its film so special? Some argue that there's a tried-and-true formula to any quality Bollywood film: swoon-worthy romance , swelling soundtracks, ridiculously attractive lead characters, and plot twists that you can see coming from a mile away. Others say that Bollywood's secret is far simpler: It's just a damn good time from beginning to end.

Either way, these must-watch movies are well worth the two-plus hours you'll probably have to block off in your day to watch them (Bollywood movies are famously long, though Hollywood is lately following suit). Whether you're a fan of romance, tragedy, or comedy, there's definitely a film for you in this colorful world. Below, find the best Bollywood movies of all time that you need to add to your watch list, from epic historical dramas to to gripping thrillers to kick-ass action movies .

'Amar Akbar Anthony' (1977)

Centered on three brothers separated by birth and adopted by families of different faiths (Hindu, Muslim, and Christian, respectively—a nod to India’s formerly secular status), this memorable comedy follows their lives as they intersect in adulthood.

'Dil Chahta Hai' (2001)

This movie has it all. It's a romantic comedy . It's a drama. It's a heartfelt coming-of-age movie. Dil Chahta Hai , which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, tells the stories of three college friends as they try to navigate life and love after graduation.

'Dil To Pagal Hai' (1997)

A classic '90s film , Dil To Pagal Hai follows members of a dance group in an unfolding love triangle . Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor star as the complicated lovers in this film, which features some of the most iconic Bollywood film songs ever.

'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' (1995)

You can't talk about Bollywood without mentioning Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge . The 1995 classic is widely considered the gold standard for Bollywood rom-coms, featuring a cheeky Shah Rukh Khan and starlet Kajol (and her signature unibrow) as two young people who fall in love on a backpacking trip across Europe. There’s a reason DDLJ, as it’s affectionately called, is still running in a Mumbai theater over 25 years later.

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'Mother India' (1957)

This epic drama focuses on an impoverished woman who is forced to care for her two sons alone while surviving threats from a nefarious money-lender when her husband leaves the family in disgrace. At the time it was made, Mother India was one of the most expensive Hindi movies ever made and is considered one of the most revered movies in Bollywood history.

'Pyaasa' (1957)

This 1957 musical romance is a classic. The story follows Vijay, an unsuccessful poet who is mistakenly assumed dead when a homeless man he gave his coat to is murdered. After his "death," Vijay's poems are published—and wildly popular.

'Sholay' (1975)

This action-adventure Bollywood offering is a classic. The plot revolves around a retired police chief who sets out to catch a dastardly thief—with the help of two lesser criminals.

'3 Idiots' (2019)

This coming-of-age dramedy follows three engineering students' trials and tribulations, offering a tongue-in-cheek critique of the state of the Indian education system and the stress it creates.

'12th Fail' (2023)

Based on a true story about the life of Manoj Kumar Sharma, 12th Fail is set in a town known for corruption—teachers at the local schools help all of the students cheat on their final exams. A new authority at the school cracks down on the dishonesty and the film, starring Vikrant Massey as Sharma, chronicles his rise to honesty and eventual career as an officer himself.

'Dangal' (2016)

Nearly a decade after its release, Dangal remains India’s highest-grossing film of all time. The blockbuster biopic follows sisters Geeta and Babita Phogat, both wrestlers, on the road to the 2010 Commonwealth Games, where—historical spoiler alert!—Geeta would ultimately go on to become the first-ever Indian woman to win a gold medal for wrestling.

'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' (2001)

What do you get when you take some of Bollywood's most prolific actors (Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Kajol, and Kareena Kapoor) and put them all in one movie about a well-off, prominent family in Delhi struggling to maintain its legacy? Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham , that's what. The family drama is a heartbreaking story about the ties that bind us but can also break us. And it's so, so, so good.

'Mary Kom' (2014)

Priyanka Chopra stars in this inspirational sports film as the real-life boxing icon Chungneijang Mary Kom Hmangte , who went from farming the fields of Manipur to fighting in the ring. Eventually, she became a six-time World Amateur Boxing champion.

'Hichki' (2018)

There's only been one thing challenging aspiring teacher Naina's dream of landing a job at the high school she once attended: her Tourette's syndrome. And even when Naina is able to finally become a teacher, her troublemaking class presents a new issue, making her wonder if her dreams really are within reach.

'Insaf Ka Tarazu' (1980)

Insaf Ka Tarazu translates to "the balance (or scale) of justice" and the movie dives deep into what justice is and how to strike that balance. In this intense drama, a wealthy man named Ramesh meets a beauty queen named Bharti, who he invites onto his yacht. Afterwards, Bharti accuses Ramesh of sexually assaulting her, but he's exonerated. When he's murdered two years later, Bharti is arrested for the crime and put on trial herself.

'Lagaan' (2001)

"Lagaan" translates to "Agricultural Tax," but don't let that put you off. Only within the genius that is Bollywood could a movie about a town outraged by an unprecedented tax increase also be this genuinely engrossing and earn an Oscar nom. It doesn't hurt that the villagers end up playing a game of cricket against the British army officers for the right not to pay it.

'The Lunchbox' (2013)

The Lunchbox is one of those beautifully touching movies that tells a story you didn't know you desperately needed until you've seen it. In the movie, a woman named Ila tries to rekindle the spark in her marriage by preparing a special lunch for her (not-so-great) husband. The plan goes awry, however, and the lunch ends up in front of an antisocial widower instead. When her husband doesn't mention his special meal, Ila adds a note to the next lunch she prepares (which also goes to said widower) and an unlikely friendship is born.

'Maidaan' (2024)

India isn’t known for its sporting culture (outside of cricket), but there’s a rich history of athletics in the country— Maidaan tells the story of the Indian national soccer team in the 1950s and 1960s. Ajay Devgn stars as the Muslim coach Syed Abdul Rahim, who is credited with the success of the team during this time period.

'Pad Man' (2018)

This Akshay Kumar social cause film sheds light on the real-life entrepreneur who brought low-cost sanitary pads to rural women. After observing that his wife was using a dirty rag when she had her period, Arunachalam Muruganantham researched better options for her and her peers, even at the cost of being morally outcast by villagers who felt his interest in women’s issues to be perverted. Pad Man is an inspirational movie about making a difference in your community.

'Panga' (2020)

This inspirational sports movie takes place in the world of Kabbadi, a popular contact sport in India. The movie follows Jaya Nigam, a former Kabbadi champion who quit the sport after the birth of her son, but regrets walking away. With help and support from her now 7-year-old son and a former teammate, Jaya trains, gets back into shape, makes her comeback, and eventually wins the Kabaddi cup for team India.

'Queen' (2014)

When shy Rani Mehra gets left at the altar on her wedding day, she shocks her conservative family and friends by turning what was supposed to be a romantic honeymoon for two into an ambitious solo trip.

'Saina' (2021)

We STAN an inspiring, goose-bump-inducing female-led sports flick. This biopic, starring Parineeti Chopra, dives into the life of Saina Nehwal an Indian professional badminton player who is a former world No. 1.

'Secret Superstar' (2017)

Part poignant coming-of-age story, part ode to a mother’s love, Secret Superstar is a certified tearjerker that shows 15-year-old Insia’s meteoric rise to fame as an anonymous YouTube sensation. With help from her mom, she’ll have to decide whether to follow her dreams or go along with her abusive father’s very different plan for her future.

'Taare Zameen Par' (2007)

If you’re looking for a tear-jerker , look no further than Aamir Khan’s Taare Zameen Par. Set at a school for kids with developmental disabilities, the film follows a child with dyslexia named Ishaan (Darsheel Safary) who bonds with a teacher (played by Khan)—the first person of authority to see beyond Ishaan’s academic shortcomings and nurtures his differences at school.

'Bajirao Mastani' (2015)

When Peshwa Bajirao (Ranveer Singh) falls for Mastani (Deepika Padukone), the daughter of a Rajput king, despite already being married to Kashibai (Priyanka Chopra) an ill-fated love triangle forms altering the very course of their lives. Fun fact: Bajirao Mastani also marks Singh and Padukone's second onscreen romance after starring together in Ram Leela in 2013; the two actors tied the knot IRL in 2018!

'The Dirty Picture' (2013)

This musical drama, loosely based on the life of Silk Smitha, an Indian actress known for erotic roles, is equal parts bold and wildly entertaining. Actress Vidya Balan was critically praised for her work in the lead role.

'Devdas' (2002)

Shah Rukh Khan (told you he'd appear on this list a lot) takes on the titular role of Devdas, a man who returns to India after previously leaving the country to study law in England. His forbidden love leads him to a battle with alcoholism that impacts the lives of the people who he loves most.

'Gangubai Kathiawadi' (2022)

Alia Bhatt transforms into the real titular Gangubai, a former sex worker and current brothel madame who advocated for sex workers rights in 1960s India. The film is inspirational, though the circumstances of her life are a reminder that there is still so far to go to protect women both in India and around the world.

'Jodhaa Akbar' (2008)

Hrthrik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai lead this 2008 romance film about the marriage of convenience turned passionate love affair between a Rajput princess and a Mughal king that is jeopardized by the threat of a looming religious war. Jodhaa Akbar will make you believe in love again — trust me .

'Mughal-e-Azam' (1960)

Loosely based on actual historical events, Mughal-e-Azam tells the story of how 16th-century Mughal Emperor Akbar’s disapproval of his son Prince Salim’s choice of love interest turned into a full-blown war. The movie—which at the time boasted the highest budget of any Indian film by far—took its inspiration from a 1922 stage play and, in a full-circle moment, has since been turned into a Broadway-style musical that debuted in 2016 and toured North America this year.

'Barfi!' (2012)

Ready to cry, laugh, and then cry a little more? Barfi! is about the misadventures of a happy-go-lucky man who makes the most of life. The film stars Bollywood favorites Ranbir Kapoor as Barfi and Priyanka Chopra as his love interest Jhilmil, a young woman on the autism spectrum.

'Jab We Met' (2007)

If you love a good quirky-girls-saves-a-guy rom-com, then Jab We Met deserves a spot on your watchlist. The movie tells the story of heartbroken businessman Aditya who meets spirited woman Geet on a train and ends up sucked into her whirlwind of a life, including a trip to meet her family and the chance to tag along for her elopement with her secret boyfriend.

'Khoobsurat' (2014)

A career-driven but socially awkward physical therapist gets the opportunity of a lifetime when she's hired by the Rajasthan royal family to nurse the king back to health. However, she gets thrown off her game by the presence of the family's extremely hot prince and his snobbish mother. Romantic shenanigans and misunderstandings ensue, and honestly, what else would we expect from a Disney movie?

'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' (1998)

Shah Rukh Khan makes the list again, this time for a ‘90s rom-com that features not one but two love triangles set about a decade apart. KKHH ’s own director has since criticized the gender politics at play in the film, but it remains a beloved entry in the Bollywood canon for its sweet story and unforgettable style.

'Laapataa Ladies' (2023)

When two newlyweds in rural India are accidentally swapped on the train, one sees it as a way out of a predicament while the other tries desperately to get back to the life she was promised. Humorous, suspenseful, and touching, Laapataa Ladies is a welcome feminist tale in an unlikely place.

'Love Aaj Kal' (2020)

It's appropriate that this romantic movie was released on Valentine's Day. The drama follows a young couple named Zoe and Veer who meet in a bar and have an instant connection but struggle to move forward in their relationship as their careers and life plans keep pulling them apart.

'Lust Stories' (2018)

Much sexier than many of the other titles on this list and within Bollywood in general, Lust Stories is an anthology film about four vastly different sexual situations, including an inappropriate student-teacher interaction, a maid's secret desire, the broken trust between a married couple, and one woman's awkward experience with a vibrator.

'Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon' (2003)

A case of mistaken identity leads to love in this romantic comedy starring Bollywood heavyweights Hrthrik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor. (Note: Pay no attention to the animated talking parrot that shows up from time to time — 2003 was a whole different mood.)

'Monica, O My Darling' (2022)

A young robotics engineer Jayant, played by Rajkummar Rao, who has risen through the ranks at his company is on the brink of being named CEO and marrying the current CEO’s daughter. Life is good, until his mistress threatens his idyllic future when she reveals she is pregnant. In this thriller, Jayant seeks revenge by partnering with some unlikely allies, but the result is far bloodier than he had originally thought.

'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' (2023)

Hailed as a film reminiscent of '90s Bollywood, this Karan Johar flick starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt treads familiar ground with a story about familial and class conflicts. Instead of waiting for older generations to break bread with each other like other Johar movies (cough cough, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham), Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani shows what can happen when people are forced to tackle their issues head-on.

'Veer-Zaara' (2004)

This 2004 period drama tells the story of star-crossed lovers Veer, an Indian Air Force officer, and Zaara, the daughter of a Pakistani politician. Their 22-year love story is full of courage, sacrifice, and, of course, lots of edge-of-your-seat drama.

'Andhadhun' (2018)

This suspense-filled black comedy is so filled with twists that “ending explained” is one of its most popular related Google searches. You won’t find any spoilers here: You’ll have to watch and decide for yourself what actually happened to Akash, Swami and Simi in the end—and whether Akash was ever really blind at all.

'Bodyguard' (2011)

Lovely Singh is assigned to be the bodyguard for Divya, the beloved daughter of a national politician with many enemies, but things get complicated when Lovely finds himself falling in love on the job. There are cool fight sequences and fun dance breaks in this one — we love duality!

'Dhoom 2' (2006)

In one of those rare cases where the sequel surpasses the original, Dhoom 2 is believed by many to be the best film in the Dhoom franchise (which, by the way, is the second largest Bollywood film franchise in terms of box-office revenue). Think Fast and Furious , but in Hindi and topped with lively musical numbers.

'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga' (2019)

LGBTQ+ narratives are slowly but surely making their way into mainstream Bollywood cinema, and Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga is helping lead the way. The heartwarming film depicts a closeted woman's journey to personal freedom and her fight for acceptance from her traditional family.

'Ek Tha Tiger' (2012)

Action icon Salman Khan plays an Indian secret agent nicknamed "Tiger" who is sent to Ireland on a mission to keep tabs on a renowned scientist suspected may be aiding the defense strategies of Pakistan.

'Fanaa' (2006)

For a thriller with more romance, try 2006's Fanaa , about a flirtatious tour guide named Rehan who meets and starts a relationship with a blind (but very independent) Kashmiri woman named Zooni. The twist: This isn't the first time Rehan and Zooni have met ... or dated. Turns out, Rehan is an insurgent behind a series of terrorist attacks, including one seven years prior that he used to fake his own death and leave Zooni the first.

'Haider' (2014)

Haider takes the well-known William Shakespeare play Hamlet and lets the tragedy play out in a totally different yet equally grim setting: in the middle of the Kashmir conflicts of 1995.

'Is Love Enough? Sir' (2018)

Get the tissues ready. Rohena Gera’s poignant and heartbreaking film examines complex love, class divides, and personal ambition. In the film, a young widow, hired as a housekeeper, and the wealthy, single man she works for fall in love.

'Kill' (2023)

Produced by Karan Johar and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga, this action thriller might remind you of Snowpiercer . Taking place entirely on a train, Kill follows Amrit Rathod (played by Lakshya) as he attempts to stop his girlfriend’s forced arranged marriage. But in his pursuit, Amrit must fight off a gang of bandits hellbent on terrorizing the passengers.

'Mrs. Serial Killer' (2020)

If you like your crime dramas dark and twisty, then Mrs. Serial Killer is for you. The premise: A a man is arrested (and possibly framed) for a series of brutal murders. His pregnant wife decides to prove he's innocent by committing a copycat crime while he's in custody. Foolproof, right?

'Neerja' (2016)

Model-turned-flight attendant Neerja Bhanot comes face to face with a group of terrorists intent on hijacking her flight. The film is based on the true story of the Abu Nidal Organization's hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in 1986.

'Thappad' (2020)

After her seemingly perfect husband Vikram (Pavail Gulati) slaps her at a party, Amrita (Taapsee Pannu) begins to realize all of the micro-sexism she's faced at his hands throughout their marriage. The movie follows her as she bravely takes on the patriarchy and fights for the respect she's owed.

'The White Tiger' (2020)

Based on Aravind Adiga's New York Times bestselling book by the same name, this Netflix drama follows Balram (Adarsh Ghourav) a driver to a wealthy family, who is coerced into taking the fall for one of their crimes. Ultimately, the film, executive produced by Priyanka Chopra, grapples with the cycle of poverty, power, and self-preservation.

'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' (2011)

Lifelong best friends Imran, Arjun, and Kabir finally make good on their pact to travel to Spain, but interpersonal conflict threatens to upend their vacation and their friendship. This Zoya Akhtar film has often been compared to her brother Farhan Akhtar’s debut Dil Chahta Hai , as it explores adult friendships in the face of change.

Lagos-born and Houston-raised, Ineye Komonibo is a writer and editor with a love for all things culture. With an academic background in public relations and media theory, Ineye’s focus has always been on using her writing ability to foster discourse about the deep cyclical relationship between society and the media we engage with, ever-curious about who we are and what we do because of what we consume. Most recently, she put her cultural savvy to work as a culture critic for R29 Unbothered, covering everything from politics to social media thirst to the reverberations of colorism across the African diaspora.

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BEST BOLLYWOOD MOVIES 2021

1. Sardar Udham

2. Shershaah

4. Antim: The Final Truth

6. Nail Polish

7. One Small Story

10. The White Tiger

12. Bhoot Police

13. Ajeeb Daastaans

14. Sooryavanshi

15. '83

16. Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui

17. Atrangi Re

18. Haseen Dillruba

19. State of Siege: Temple Attack

20. Rashmi Rocket

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The Best Bollywood Movies That’ll Sweep You Away

There’s so much more to this genre than musical numbers (though we love those, too!).

Whether you're new to Indian cinema or are simply looking to catch up, we've gathered together a list that will help you navigate some of the best Bollywood movies. A portmanteau of "Hollywood" and "Bombay," the genre refers specifically to the Hindi-language sector of India's massive film industry centered in Mumbai (formerly Bombay). This list combines the classics to more current favorites that include high-profile stars like Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, as well as leading men like the so-called " Khans of Bollywood ," who draw audiences out in droves. In fact, one movie on this list is so timeless that it stayed in theaters for 23 years ! Ranging from crime thrillers like Andhadhun to sweet rom-coms with epic dance breaks (looking at you, Badhaai Ho ) , our list of top Bollywood movie picks has something for everyone.

Thappad is a gripping social drama that confronts the patriarchy, and what happens when a woman refuses to submit to it. Amrita's (Taapsee Pannu) world and sense of self crumbles after her husband Vikram (Pavail Gulati) slaps her at a party, in front of their family and friends.

Monsoon Wedding

Mira Nair's film was an international hit when it came out in 1995. The movie proves that at a single wedding, there's enough drama and life to fuel a movie—if not an entire long-running TV show. Sit back and enjoy this infectiously joyous comedy.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge played in a famous Mumbai theater for 1,200 weeks, or approximately 23 years . That means that several generations grew up watching the love story. Called the ultimate Bollywood rom-com, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is about a young man and woman who meet while inter-railing in Europe. The movie catapulted Shah Rukh Khan to fame.

If you're looking for an empowered heroine to root for, look no further. Queen is the story of a 24-year-old woman (Kangana Ranau) who, upon being dumped by her fiancé, goes on a honeymoon by herself. The 2014 feel-good movie is about a love affair, of sorts—between a woman and the big world.

Deemed a movie that "everyone in India needs to see" when it came out in 2019, Article 15 is an unflinching look at India's still-present caste system. The crime drama, which is loosely based on a true story , follows a police officer reluctantly investigating the disappearance of three young women from a lower caste.

Jodhaa Akbar

If you have time on your hands and a hankering for a historical romance, then Jodhaa should be your pick. The modern classic finds inspiration in the marriage between a Mughal empire Akbar (Hrithik Roshan) and Rajput princess Jodhaa (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan). What begins as a strategic alliance becomes a marriage of equals.

Devdas has been done before, actually—the famous 2002 movie is the third Hindi remake, and has been made 12 times in total . Here's the plot: In the early 1900s, Devdas (Shah Rukh Khan) returns to India after a decade in London, expecting to marry Paro (Aishwarya Rai), his childhood best friend. Their socioeconomic differences keep them apart. Expect dance numbers, elaborate sets, and India's most famous stars at the top of their game.

The Sky Is Pink

Priyanka Chopra Jonas headlines this utterly emotional 2019 movie, with a premise that makes us tear up just in recalling it. The film is narrated by Aisha Chaudhary (Zaira Wasim), a teenage girl who recently passed away of a terminal illness. She tells the story of her parents' relationship and their struggle with their daughters' illness. As if that weren't sad enough, The Sky Is Pink is based on a true story .

Executive produced by Nas, Gully Boy tells the story of Murad Ahmed (Ranveer Singh), a 22 year old college student, who lives in the slums of Mumbai and has a passion for hip-hop. It’s inspired by real life hip-hop stars, Divine and Naezy, who took India by storm when they released their first viral video, “Mere Gully Mein," on YouTube in 2015. Ranveer Singh also takes your breath away with every song.

Take a history lesson with this 1995 movie about the 1992 Bombay riots, a dark moment in India's history. The melodrama follows a Hindu man and his Muslim bride in a city being torn apart by religious violence. Technically, the blockbuster was made in Tamil, and dubbed in Hindi.

The first film by acclaimed director Shyam Benegal, Ankur is a work of India's art house cinema—also called "parallel cinema." It's about Surya (Anant Nag), son of a landlord, who is drawn to a servant, Lakshmi (Shabana Azmi), and then abandons her after she becomes pregnant. The movie is grounded within a complicated web of power and social issues while providing an indictment of society itself.

Lust Stories

A solid choice for your next girl's night in, this tells four separate stories of women who are exploring their sensuality. The tales are directed by some of the best directors in Bollywood, so you know you’re in for a treat.

If you loved the Oscar winning documentary, Period. End of Sentence , you’ll enjoy this movie inspired by the real-life “Pad Man," Arunachalam Muruganantham. In a society where even the concept of discussing sanitary pads is considered taboo, Laxmi sets out to create his own, cheaper version of the feminine product. Watch Now

This crime thriller is the movie we didn’t know we wanted but one we definitely needed. While trying an unorthodox approach to his music, piano player, Akash (Ayushmann Khurrana) falls into deep trouble when he becomes implicated in actor's murder. The flick will have you at the edge of your seat, trying to figure out what comes next, but you won’t be successful.

Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga

Finally, a mainstream Indian film about LGBT issues . This story revolves around a young woman struggling to open up about her sexuality due to her traditional, conservative family. This upbeat romance will absolutely make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with love.

Amitabh Bachchan aka the Robert De Niro of Bollywood, and the incredible Taapsee Pannu team up once again for this epic mystery crime movie. It’s all about Badal solving the murder mystery of who killed and framed Naina for her lover’s death. It has major Gone Girl vibes, if you like that sort of thing.

Bollywood’s favorite couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh team up once again with director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali for this masterpiece. It focuses on an eccentric ruler who travels a long distance to (essentially) kidnap the beautiful Rajput Queen, Padmavati. If you’ve seen Bhansali’s Ram Leela or Bajirao Mastani , you can expect the same level of aesthetic that transports viewers centuries into the past. As usual, Singh and Padukone deliver awe inspiring performances.

Badhaai Ho tells the story of a middle-aged couple who find themselves unexpectedly expecting. It tackles the issue that sexuality is often shamed in Indian culture, with a sense of humor.

Based on harrowing real life events, this story focuses on a Muslim family, whose son, an ISIS terrorist, was caught and executed. The family was put on trial for terrorism, without any legitimate evidence. This intense film comes at an important time as tensions between Hindus and Muslims continue to rise in India. Watch Trailer

Love Per Square Foot

After struggling to get their own places as single people, young professionals, Sanjay (Vicky Kaushal) and Karina (Angira Dhar), decide to get fake married to secure the apartment of their dreams. The story highlights how difficult it is to find housing in Mumbai without loans and a spouse, which has forced folks into shifty schemes like this one.

Elena Nicolaou is the former culture editor at Oprah Daily. 

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Movie Review: THANGALAAN works due to its theme, Pa Ranjith’s execution and Chiyaan Vikram’s performance

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Quick review: “WHY SO LOUD?” Would’ve asked the question if I got a feeling that there’d be a well thought out reason for the decision or any film-making decision at all. That’s how haphazard it all is. (Streaming Partner: Amazon Prime)

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Bollywood star/producer Salman Khan is a man called India ( literally ) in “Bharat,” a corny drama about the title character’s quest to support and do right by his family in post-partition India. Khan plays Bharat, a stolid, nearly unflappable man who was separated from his father and younger sister on August, 15, 1947, the day that India gained its independence from England and was separated from modern-day Pakistan. Bharat is basically Paul Bunyan, Captain America, and Forrest Gump all rolled into one—only more Indian. He has lived many lives—as a daredevil motorcyclist, a Navy mechanic, and an oil-drilling wildcat—and each one brings out the most flattering sides of benevolent muscleman Khan, who is very much playing to type.

Bharat is surreally charismatic: he subdues gun-toting pirates by dancing like super-star Amitabh Bachchan , woos the love of his life ( Katrina Kaif ) by reciting poetry, and generally earns better working/living conditions for himself and his peers by delivering impassioned speeches about India’s greatness. One of the main pleasures of watching “Bharat” is seeing Khan coast on his considerable charms as he and Kaif—who frequently outshines Khan, as she previously did in the goofy but winsome 2017 spy thriller “ Tiger Zinda Hai “—endure, by sheer force of conviction, through several key moments in India’s nation-building history. Khan isn’t always strong enough to stick several big, sappy emotional moments (ie: whenever he has to do more than just smolder boyishly). But he and his co-stars are sometimes attractive enough to make the otherwise ridiculous “Bharat” seem believable.

And boy, is “Bharat” incredible: Khan’s character, now middle-aged, regales his extended family’s members with wild (but true enough!) tales of astonishing humble-ness in the face of changing values. In his time, Bharat recalls coming, seeing, and conquering everything he desired. First he masters and then quits a fulfilling job as an Evel Knievel-style stunt driver, but only after he realizes that a thrilling gig and an attractive partner ( Disha Patani ) aren’t as important as the example he’s setting for India’s impressionable youths. Next: Bharat travels to and then flees from “somewhere in the Middle East” to make his fortune, but only after he falls in love with sassy forewoman Kumud Raina (Kaif) and rescues some inept co-workers from a deadly mining incident. Then he travels to Malta as a ship’s mechanic (despite having no mechanical skills), but leaves that position after he tames the aforementioned pirates and helps his friend and constant bromantic companion Vilayati ( Sunil Grover ) to romance the woman of his dreams. Each episode in Bharat’s life only serves to confirm his affable nature and deathless loyalty. No matter how unsolvable a given problem may seem—only he can solve it.

Khan’s broad, muscular shoulders are often capable of carrying such a wide load. He’s most convincing when Bharat is primarily defined by Khan’s hip-waggling strut, broad pout, and appraising stare. He makes a white, bedazzled jump-suit look good; hell, Khan makes a John-Waters-style pencil mustache look good. Khan’s only really unconvincing when he has to cry, beg, or exhibit any other complex emotions, as he must in a crucial scene involving one of Bharat’s long-lost relative.

But for the most part, Khan is perfect as the happy-go-lucky Bharat: he’s light enough on his feet, as we see in dance numbers where he commands a battalion of back-up dancers, who dutifully lift him upon their shoulders. The man is as bulky and as proud of it as Macho Man Randy Savage during his heyday, but his collaborators usually know how to bring out the best in him. There just aren’t enough scenes where Khan gets to flex, since “Bharat” director Ali Abbas Zafar and co-writer Varun V. Sharma inevitably spend way too much time re-establishing their happy-go-lucky protagonist’s love for Mother India. Still: there are several scenes where Khan reminds viewers that he’s not only very comfortable in his own skin, but knows how to look good for the camera. Sometimes, that’s more than enough.

Then again, I often wondered why Kaif wasn’t given more screentime. She steals almost every scene she’s in with a couple of coy winks and knowing smiles, as in an irresistible musical number where Raina convinces Bharat to talk to his mother about the possibility of being a “live-in” (ie: unmarried) couple. Kaif’s joyful, commanding performance brings Rita Hayworth’s show-stopping dance in “Gilda” to mind, especially when Kaif’s song returns to its chorus: “Baby, come hither.” Anything Khan can do, Kaif can do better, like when Raina flirts with Bharat while pretending to be a mustachioed caterer: “The sweets are ready and so am I.” Khan’s brand of can-do heroism is fine enough, but I don’t think I’m alone in wishing that there were a lot more where Kaif’s light-hearted, but commanding performance came from.

Simon Abrams

Simon Abrams is a native New Yorker and freelance film critic whose work has been featured in  The New York Times ,  Vanity Fair ,  The Village Voice,  and elsewhere.

• Shashank Arora as Chotte
• Disha Patani as Radha
• Salman Khan as Bharat
• Jackie Shroff as Mahabharat
• Katrina Kaif as Aaliyah
• Tabu as Smriti
• Ali Abbas Zafar
• Varun V. Sharma
• Julius Packiam

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• Marcin Laskawiec

Writer (original screenplay)

• Park Soo-jin
• Rameshwar S. Bhagat

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Chhichhore movie review: Sushant Singh Rajput, Shraddha Kapoor deliver relevant film with important message

Chhichhore movie review: the sushant singh rajput-shraddha kapoor film takes you on a nostalgia trip to your college days with an engaging narrative and flashback sequences..

Chhichhore Director - Nitesh Tiwari Cast - Sushant Singh Rajput, Shraddha Kapoor, Varun Sharma, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Prateik Babbar, Naveen Polishetty, Tushar Pandey

An ode to college-time friendships, romances, ragging, fights, competitions and countless memories, Chhichhore is a riot of emotions, and takes you on a nostalgic ride. It’s a relevant film with a rather important message conveyed through an engaging narrative. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal fame, Chhichhore is high on content and humour packaged so well that it stays with you for a very long time.

The story is simple — a bunch of engineering students and their journey from being losers to choosers. Sushant Singh Rajput (Annirudh) and Shraddha Kapoor (Maya) play a divorced couple, and they have a reunion of sorts with their college buddies, though in rather unwanted circumstances. Together, they recall and relive their old college memories, the good and bad days spent almost 20 years ago. The screenplay takes a trip down memory lane through college hostels, sports grounds and canteen conversations; switch to present day and you see the same camaraderie in their friendship that was forged in college.

Brilliant writing loaded with comic punches, one-liners and genuinely funny jokes makes Chhichhore a winner. Full credit to the writers for ensuring that the humour is not even remotely slapstick. For instance, when Varun Sharma’s character compares spotting a girl in an engineering college to Halley’s Comet that is visible every 75 years, it isn’t demeaning women but proof of clever writing. Keeping the storytelling simple, Nitesh made an intelligent move to weave flashback sequences into the present day, and keep audiences attentive. Though mostly predictable, the build-up towards the climax manages to look intriguing.

Among the cast, you see Varun Sharma (Sexa), Tahir Raj Bhasin (Derek), Naveen Polishetty (ACID), Tushar Pandey (Mummy) and Saharsh Shukla (Bevda) aptly fitting in their respective parts and doing full justice to their screen-time. The way each character is introduced in the film with minute detailing and individual traits, it makes you sit up and take notice.

There are performances that stand out without screaming from the rooftops. From playing Chucha in Fukrey to Sexa in this film, Varun nails it with an impressive performance, yet again. So comfortable with his body and style of dialogue delivery, he knows when and how to throw his weight around, quite literally. Sushant looks good as a young college student but in his ‘40s, he is rather unconvincing and a misfit. Shraddha’s character, it seems, has been written with least amount of interest. Although her screen presence is felt each time she’s in the frame, she hardly gets any dialogues and you ask yourself ‘was she even needed in the film’? Even the chemistry between Sushant and Shraddha is unconvincing and their scenes together flirting or comforting each other look rather juvenile. Prateik Babbar, who delivered an intense performance as the popular guy and a baddie in college, could have been given a little more screen time.

There is an extensive use of prosthetic makeup to show the characters ageing onscreen. While some are shown going half-bald, others decide to grow their tresses. There’s one guy with an American accent too -- he has stayed in New York for 20 years, after all. However, in Shraddha Kapoor’s case, the only transition that shows her going from her 20s to 40s is midi-dresses turning into cotton suits and saris. Sadly, so little imagination there!

Watch the Chhichhore video review here 

Thankfully, Pritam’s music and background score by Sameer Uddin does not sound forced at any point and beautifully blends with the narrative. The song Fikar Not in the end credits is a refreshing change from the high-pitched item songs or over dramatized romantic numbers and is brilliantly choreographed.

A must-watch with your college friends, Chhichhore is relatable and relevant. Watch it for its uncomplicated screenplay, gripping narrative and some stellar performances that leave you in stitches.

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