Dear Philippe & Piera this one’s for you 🙂 come back and visit real soon! xoxo – MissMalini
Bollywood is not just an industry – it’s a way of life! So when #BossLady MissMalini told us that she met the folks over at Refinery 29 and wanted to recco some Hindi movies for them to watch (considering they haven’t seen any before), I knew we had to do a special blog for them!
We got our beautiful heads together and put together our very own Bollywood 101: a list of movies you need to watch for your big introduction to good ol’ Bolly. Here it is – 15 films you need to watch if you haven’t yet seen a Hindi film!
1. Sholay
It’s impossible to have a conversation about Bollywood without bringing up Sholay. The film released in 1973 and is widely considered the greatest Hindi film ever made. Over 4 decades later, it continues to be a constant reference point simply because it tells a timeless story – a story of friendship and revenge.
2. Dil Chahta Hai
If I had to pick one adjective to describe Dil Chahta Hai, it’s got to be “cool”. The film is urban, fresh and most importantly – relatable. I mean, would I have even planned my first Goa trip with friends if the boys in the film hadn’t shown me how to?
3. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Zindagi Na Milgei Dobara is like Dil Chahta Hai for adults. No, really!
4. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai has got to be on the list because the director of the film, Karan Johar, is one of the coolest guys in Bollywood ever. That, and the fact that an entire generation felt things they hadn’t before when the heroine of the film leaves the hero at the railway station before the interval. #TooManyFeels.
5. Monsoon Wedding
Yes, Bollywood films are long. Yes, Bollywood films are over the top. And yes, we love a big fat Indian wedding. But if there’s been a closest-to-reality representation of our love for a huge celebration, it’s got to be Monsoon Wedding!
6. Wake Up Sid
You know how celebrities are often asked about the one film that’s changed their life? When I get famous, I’ll tell them it’s Wake Up Sid for me. It tells the story of Sid, who really could be any of us, and how he comes of age as he deals with love, life and everything in between.
7. Queen
Oh man! A simple girl goes on her honeymoon alone after being dumped by her fiancé. Forgive the cliché, but what happens next will blow your mind: a lovely journey of self-discovery that will make you laugh and cry all at the same time.
8. Swades
This is what Queen‘s director Vikas Bahl has to say about Swades:
#NuffSaid
9. The Lunchbox
Bollywood’s mantra has often been #GoBigOrGoHome, but it you’re looking for a heartwarming story that captures the subtlety of romance in the modern day world, The Lunchbox is your best bet.
10. Chupke Chupke
And now for some vintage Bollywood – Chupke Chupke is one those hilarious gems from the Hindi film industry that can really be watched over and over. No exaggeration!
11. Udaan
A father-son relationship that goes through immense highs and lows and ends with a surprise. If you’re feeling particularly intense and are willing to go on a life-altering journey with a young boy, watch Udaan.
12. Andaz Apna Apna
What can I tell you about Andaz Apna Apna except that it’s a classic? This gem is God’s gift to mankind.
13. Gangs Of Wasseypur
Gangs Of Wasseypur is director Anurag Kashyap‘s ode to the Western genre of American cinema – and my God, he nails it!
14. Kal Ho Naa Ho
We love this movie so much, we listed down 12 reasons why Kal Ho Naa Ho will always be relevant in Bollywood and pop culture in general (Kaaaantaaa Ben).
15. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Because if you ever have to describe what love is, all you have to do is show that person this movie.
What are your thoughts? Tell us in the comments below.