As a connoisseur of Indian cinema who’s spent countless hours engrossed in the stories unfolding on my small screen, I must say that each of these series and films holds a special place in my heart. However, if forced to pick just one favorite, it would be “Kota Factory.
Bollywood is experiencing a notable change in its approach to storytelling. Instead of relying heavily on extravagant and grandiose sets, it’s now focusing more on authenticity to captivate audiences. Movies such as “Laapataa Ladies,” “Mimi,” and others have demonstrated that viewers appreciate genuine stories. If you’re seeking films that portray the spirit of small towns, here’s a list of some top picks available on Netflix.
12 films and shows on Netflix that transport us to the small towns of India
1. Laapataa Ladies
Kiran Rao’s film Laapataa Ladies stands out at the top for numerous valid reasons. Headed by Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava, this charming satire refreshes storytelling with its unique approach. The period piece provides a peek into rural life, meticulously focusing on subtle details.
2. Mimi
As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but advocate for Kriti Sanon’s masterpiece, Mimi, a National Award-winning gem that deserves a place on every must-watch list! This captivating tale is set in the heart of Rajgarh, Rajasthan, offering an authentic glimpse into the charm and challenges of small-town life.
3. Dunki
Following up is the movie titled “Dunki,” directed by Rajkumar Hirani, which unfolds in the quaint town of Laltu, Punjab. This film poignantly explores the tales of Punjabi migrants, featuring exceptional performances from actors such as Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, and Boman Irani. Their portrayals are remarkably genuine due to their fluency in the regional dialect and authentic representation of small-town existence.
4. OMG 2
In a captivating sequel titled OMG 2, the narrative skillfully employs the quaint backdrop of Ujjain to unfold its tale. The star-studded cast, featuring Akshay Kumar, Pankaj Tripathi, and Yami Gautam, delves into the important topic of sex education. The characters portray the gritty reality, profound religious beliefs, and spiritual nature of a typical small town, which serve as their strength in navigating life’s challenges.
5. Bareilly Ki Barfi
2017’s movie “Bareilly Ki Barfi,” featuring Ayushmann Khurrana, Kriti Sanon, and Rajkummar Rao, offers a one-of-a-kind romantic tale. The title itself hints that the story unfolds in the quaint town of Bareilly. The film authentically depicts the town’s dialect, the interactions between neighbors on adjacent terraces, and the navigation through crowded alleyways, giving it an original feel. Additionally, the movie portrays a community that is both supportive and meddlesome, making the narrative both clever and easy to connect with.
6. Swades
2004’s Swades, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and starring Shah Rukh Khan, rekindles one’s affection for their native land. Featuring stunning landscapes of rural India and outstanding performances from its cast, Swades offers a genuine and distinctive portrayal of life in a small village. This film serves as an emotional journey delving into themes of identity, attachment, and the soul of India’s countryside.
7. Jamtara
One well-regarded Netflix series, Jamtara, revolves around the theme of phishing scams and cybercrime spurred by joblessness. This compelling drama is expertly crafted by Soumendra Padhi and unfolds in the quaint town of Jamtara, Jharkhand. The rustic environment provides an ideal canvas for depicting the genuine and raw account of the fallout from phishing scams. By shedding light on the economic circumstances that breed these crimes, the show manages to be both current and captivating.
8. Kota Factory
Instead of simply being a television series, Kota Factory has evolved into something profoundly felt by its audience. Overseen by Raghav Subbu, the show takes place in Kota, Rajasthan – a city renowned for its numerous academic institutions geared towards preparing students for engineering and medical entrance exams. The black-and-white aesthetic of the series reflects the intense competition and bleak existence of students striving to excel in this stressful atmosphere. It skillfully portrays the hardships and hurdles faced by students in Kota.
9. Udaan
The movie Udaan, starring Rajat Barmecha, Ronit Roy, and Ram Kapoor, is a must-see. This film, set in Jamshedpur, India’s steel capital, showcases a gritty realism through its rough edges. The city’s industrial setting reflects the story’s themes of confinement and rebellion, with the steel plants serving as symbols of the protagonist Rohan’s feelings of being trapped. The film delves deeply into the emotional turmoil of adolescence and the longing for freedom.
10. Pagglait
2021 saw the debut of Pagglait, a captivating film spearheaded by Sanya Malhotra that has unfortunately flown under the radar as one of the underappreciated gems. Umesh Bist skillfully directed this movie, delicately touching upon themes such as repression and female empowerment through the narrative of a young widow. The story unfolds in a modest home in Lucknow, filled with extended family members mourning a recent demise, offering an intimate look into intricate family dynamics and the clash between tradition and contemporary values. It offers a profound insight into the challenges women face in a patriarchal society.
11. Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi
Seema Pahwa’s first film as director, Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi, is likewise situated in Lucknow. This family comedy takes place during the 13-day mourning period following the passing of the family head. The movie presents a complex picture of small-town living and familial relationships, making it an engaging viewing experience. Although the fundamental storyline might seem familiar to Pagglait, both films have their unique qualities, effectively conveying poignant yet affectionate narratives.
12. Billu Barber
Billu Barber is one of Priyadarshan’s finest films, skillfully combining entertainment, humor, feelings, and drama into a harmonious whole. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Irrfan Khan, and Lara Dutta, the film unfolds in the quaint town of Budbuda, Uttar Pradesh. It delves into the themes of small-town camaraderie, loyalty, and social disparity. The movie poignantly portrays the class distinctions and aspirations of its characters, offering a touching and thought-provoking experience.
The depth of their genuine quality sets these movies and series apart as standout picks. Out of all of them, which one do you favor most?
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-10-08 18:38