7 hand-picked films that started the ‘silsila’ of breaking new ground with their excellent storytelling

As a film enthusiast who has had the pleasure of watching and appreciating various cinematic masterpieces, I must say that the list presented here is truly commendable. Each film, in its unique way, challenges the status quo and pushes boundaries, making them not just films but powerful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

Do you appreciate Hindi cinema deeply? If you’re seeking high-quality films that have reshaped narratives within the industry, then your journey ends here. We’ve meticulously compiled a list of exceptional movies, which were far ahead of their time. These are the films that dared to defy traditional storytelling and addressed topics that others considered daring.

7 Hindi films that were way ahead of its time

1. Kya Kehna

Cast: Preity Zinta, Saif Ali Khan, Anupam Kher, Chandrachur Singh, Farida Jalal
Director: Kundan Shah
IMDb Rating: 5.8/10
Release Year: 2000
Genre: Family Drama/Romance
Where to Watch: Jio Cinema, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video

Showcasing an outstanding portrayal by Preity Zinta, “Kya Kehna” delved into thought-provoking issues such as premarital pregnancy, single parenthood, and societal prejudice. This film was released at a time when these topics were generally shunned as taboo. Bravely tackling such themes, Kundan Shah offered a progressive narrative supported by powerful acting performances.

The film illustrates the severe impacts of societal criticism and underscores the significance of familial backing.

2. Go Goa Gone

Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Kunal Kemmu, Vir Das, Anand Tiwari, Puja Gupta, Abhishek Banerjee
Director: Raj Nidimoru, Krishna D.K.
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Release Year: 2013
Genre: Comedy/Horror
Where to Watch: Jio Cinema and YouTube

Goa Go Gone deserves recognition for bringing the zombie genre into the spotlight of mainstream Hindi cinema, opening doors for future horror-comedies. With a unique fusion of humor, terror, and adventure, combined with an offbeat storyline, the film’s dialogue resonated with contemporary language. The movie also emphasized the significance of male friendships and camaraderie. Its darkly humorous, unconventional, and witty humor has played a crucial role in cultivating its dedicated fanbase.

3. Silsila

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Rekha, Shashi Kapoor, Sanjeev Kumar, Sushma Seth
Director: Yash Chopra
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Release Year: 1981
Genre: Drama/Romance
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Prior to Karan Johar’s endeavor in creating Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, esteemed director Yash Chopra delved into the intricate subject matter of infidelity and extramarital affairs. The film gained recognition for its release period, as discussing such sensitive topics was generally regarded as taboo or contentious.

Additionally, the movie highlighted empowered women capable of self-determination, defying conventional male-dominated values. Its ideas and statements struck a chord with viewers, fostering a change in societal perspectives concerning partnerships and individual development.

4. Fire

Cast: Shabana Azmi, Nandita Das, Jaaved Jaaferi, Vinay Pathak, Kulbhushan Kharbanda
Director: Deepa Mehta
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Release Year: 1996
Genre: Crime/Drama/Romance
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

One approach to rephrase this passage could be: “Fire is a groundbreaking work in Indian cinema that tackled a topic which was only recently accepted by the society. It was among the earliest Indian films to portray a lesbian relationship, initiating discussions on LGBTQ+ rights and representation. The movie highlighted women’s desires, necessities, and autonomy, opposing long-established patriarchal standards.

Additionally, the movie delved into the intricacies of pre-arranged matrimony and the repercussions of unfaithfulness in a subtle manner. The prescience of this film is evident as it encountered protests and censorship in India due to its controversial subject matter during that period.

5. Cheeni Kum

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Zohra Sehgal, Swini Khara
Director: R. Balki
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Release Year: 2007
Genre: Comedy/Romance
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Zee5

17 years ago, it was unusual to find a movie portraying a romance between two people with a substantial age gap. However, Cheeni Kum broke traditional norms by featuring a romantic storyline involving a 64-year-old man (Amitabh Bachchan) and a 34-year-old woman (Tabu). This film elegantly explored the intricacies of non-traditional relationships, emphasizing the significance of emotional bonds over societal pressures.

6. Monsoon Wedding

Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Lillete Dubey, Shefali Shah, Vijay Raaz, Tillotama Shome, Parvin Dabas, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Rajat Kapoor
Director: Mira Nair
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Release Year: 2001
Genre: Romance/Comedy
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Comedy can sometimes be the best way to address sensitive topics. Mira Nair’s Monsoon Wedding skillfully dives into the complexities of family relationships, revealing secrets and tensions that often lie hidden beneath the surface. The film also features strong female characters who don’t hesitate to challenge traditional norms.

7. Black

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Ayesha Kapur, Dhritiman Chatterjee
Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Release Year: 2005
Genre: Family/Drama
Where to Watch: Netflix

In a different wording: The critically acclaimed movie “Black” narrates the tale of Michelle McNally, a character played by Rani Mukerji who is both deaf and blind. This film underscores the significance of embracing diversity and ensuring accessibility. Drawing on aspects of Helen Keller’s life, it delicately depicts the profound relationship between Michelle and her instructor, Debraj Sahai (Amitabh Bachchan). By doing so, it questions conventional ideas about guidance and leadership.

This movie, “Black,” isn’t your typical Bollywood film. Instead of extensive dialogues, it makes a powerful statement through restrained dialogue and captivating performances, particularly by Mukerji.

Without a doubt, it can be stated that these movies have become trailblazing masterpieces, laying the groundwork for comparable ventures in the future. Of all these films, which ones have you found both captivating and pleasurable? Please do share your favorites in our comments area below!

2024-12-24 19:52