Unveiling the Gems: The Top Underrated Bollywood Films You Must Watch
In this blog post we have to explore the top underrated bollywood films Bollywood is a treasure trove of cinematic masterpieces, but not all of them receive the recognition they deserve. In an industry dominated by blockbusters and high-octane dramas, numerous films remain underrated, offering rich narratives and exceptional performances that deserve a spotlight. This article aims to highlight some of the most underrated Bollywood films that every cinephile should experience.
Why Are Some Films Underrated?
Bollywood, like any other film industry, has its share of hits and misses. A film may not perform well at the box office due to various factors such as marketing, star power, or even timing of the release. However, the absence of commercial success does not always equate to a lack of quality. Numerous films deliver spectacular performances, profound storytelling, and innovative direction but fail to garner the attention they deserve.
Top Underrated Bollywood Films to Watch
1. Masaan (2015)
Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
Cast: Richa Chadda, Vicky Kaushal, Shweta Tripathi
Masaan is one of the top underrated bollywood films. It tells the interwoven tales of love and loss set against the backdrop of Varanasi. The film beautifully illustrates the struggles faced by its characters against societal norms and personal grief. With its poignant narrative and powerful performances, especially by Richa Chadda and Vicky Kaushal, it leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
2. The Lunchbox (2013)
Director: Ritesh Batra
Cast: Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Set in Mumbai, The Lunchbox is a delightful romantic drama that revolves around a mistaken lunch delivery. The film explores themes of loneliness and connection through the correspondence between a young woman, who navigates her mundane life, and an older man approaching retirement. The subtle performances and charming story make it a must-watch.
Explore The Lunchbox on Amazon Prime Video
3. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadda
This two-part crime drama delves deep into the coal mafia of Wasseypur, combining history, violence, and dark humor. Gangs of Wasseypur is a strong commentary on revenge and power dynamics in a feudal society, packed with memorable performances, gripping dialogues, and a killer soundtrack.
Stream Gangs of Wasseypur on Netflix
4. Paan Singh Tomar (2012)
Director: Tigmanshu Dhulia
Cast: Irrfan Khan, Mahie Gill, Vipin Sharma
Paan Singh Tomar tells the true story of a soldier and athlete who, after being wronged by the system, turns into a bandit. Irrfan Khan’s performance is powerful and evokes empathy, making the film both engaging and heart-wrenching.
Watch Paan Singh Tomar on Disney+ Hotstar
5. Queen (2014)
Director: Vikas Bahl
Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Rajkummar Rao, Lisa Haydon
A delightful tale of self-discovery, Queen follows a young woman who embarks on a solo honeymoon trip to Europe after her marriage plans go awry. Kangana Ranaut delivers an unforgettable performance, filled with humor and emotion, making this film a celebration of independence and self-exploration.
6. Kahaani (2012)
Director: Sujoy Ghosh
Cast: Vidya Balan, Parambrata Chatterjee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Kahaani is a gripping thriller that presents Vidya Balan in an unforgettable role as a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata. The film is notable for its strong female lead, intricate plot, and unexpected twists, making it a must-watch for mystery lovers.
7. Swades (2004)
Director: Ashutosh Gowariker
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Gayatri Joshi
In Swades, Shah Rukh Khan portrays an NASA scientist who returns to India and finds himself reconnected to his roots. The film beautifully captures the importance of social responsibility and the power of one individual to create change. Though a commercial flop at the time, it has gained a cult following for its inspiring narrative.
Explore Swades on Amazon Prime Video
8. Ha Khel Savlyancha (2016)
Director: Vishal Bhandare
Cast: Milind Shinde, Jyoti Subhash
This little-known Marathi film presents a poignant exploration of societal issues faced by rural communities. It’s an eye-opener that elegantly discusses perspectives on gender and tradition and is a hidden gem in regional cinema.
9. Barfi! (2012)
Director: Anurag Basu
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Ileana D’Cruz
Known for its heartwarming story and brilliant performances, Barfi! is a delightful love story about a mute and deaf man navigating life and love. Both Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra deliver stellar performances that tug at the heartstrings.
10. A Wednesday! (2008)
Director: Neeraj Pandey
Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher
This thriller explores terrorism and the common man’s grievances against the system. A Wednesday! stands out for its tight script and compelling performances, especially by Naseeruddin Shah, who dares to challenge authority for the greater good.
Here are the top underrated bollywood films you must watch
Check out A Wednesday! on Amazon Prime Video
FAQs
1. What makes a film underrated?
An underrated film is one that, despite its quality, fails to gain the recognition or commercial success it deserves. Factors contributing to this include poor marketing, lack of star power, or being overshadowed by larger releases.
2. Are there any recent underrated Bollywood films?
Yes, in recent years, films like Sardar Udham (2021) and Choked (2020) have been critically acclaimed yet didn’t achieve mainstream popularity, making them contenders for underrated status.
3. How do I discover underrated Bollywood films?
To find underrated films, consider browsing independent film forums, reading film critiques on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb, and exploring social media platforms where cinephiles discuss hidden gems.
4. Are underrated films worth exploring?
Absolutely! Underrated films often showcase unique storytelling, performances, and ideas that challenge traditional Bollywood fare. They provide a fresh perspective on societal issues and human relationships.
5. How can I support underrated films?
You can support these films by watching them on streaming platforms, sharing your thoughts on social media, and discussing them with friends. Your recommendations could help these gems reach a wider audience!
Conclusion: A Cinematic Journey Worth Taking
Bollywood’s landscape is vast and varied. While mainstream films attract massive audiences with star-studded casts and grand budgets, it is often the underrated ones that offer the most depth and resonance. These films warrant exploration, as they challenge conventions and provide fresh narratives. By watching and sharing these films, we contribute to their recognition and celebrate the artistic diversity that Bollywood has to offer.
In this digital age, accessibility to these hidden gems has improved, with platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar showcasing a range of content outside the typical commercial releases. Take the time to explore these films, and you may just discover a newfound appreciation for the art of cinema in India.
For recommendations or to share your favorite underrated films, join the conversation on platforms like Reddit and Quora, where film enthusiasts come together to discuss, debate, and share their cinematic experiences.. You also read
Let your cinematic journey begin!