What are the top 20 best Hindi movies of all time?
- 19 Jul 2023
- 0 Comments
The Golden Era of Hindi Cinema
The Hindi film industry, also known as Bollywood, has a rich and diverse history that spans over a century. The golden era, which is often referred to as the period from the 1940s to the 1960s, saw the release of some of the most critically acclaimed films in the history of Indian cinema. Films like 'Pyaasa' and 'Shree 420' not only set the benchmark for storytelling but also introduced the world to iconic actors like Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt. These movies are not just entertainment but are a reflection of the social and cultural fabric of the time.
Revolution of the 70s and 80s
The 70s and 80s were a period of transition for the Hindi film industry. This was the era of the 'angry young man', epitomized by Amitabh Bachchan in films like 'Sholay' and 'Deewar'. Parallel cinema also gained momentum during this time with filmmakers like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani making thought-provoking films such as 'Aakrosh' and 'Manthan'. This era was instrumental in shaping the future of Hindi cinema.
The Romance of the 90s
The 90s is often remembered for the romantic films that ruled the box office. Shahrukh Khan and Kajol's 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' is perhaps the epitome of this era. Other noteworthy films include 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun' and 'Dil To Pagal Hai'. These films redefined romance in Bollywood and are still loved by audiences for their music, performances, and the fairy-tale-like love stories.
The New Millennium’s Edge
With the turn of the millennium, Hindi cinema started exploring new themes and narratives. Films like 'Lagaan' and 'Dil Chahta Hai' broke the conventional mould and were appreciated both by the audiences and the critics. This era also saw the rise of new filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap and Vishal Bhardwaj, who brought a fresh perspective to Hindi cinema with their unique storytelling techniques.
The Rise of Content-Driven Cinema
The last decade has witnessed a significant shift in the kind of films being made in Bollywood. A growing emphasis on content-driven cinema has led to the production of films like '3 Idiots', 'Dangal', and 'Piku'. These films not only offer entertainment but also make a social commentary, thereby pushing the boundaries of mainstream cinema.
The Reign of Biopics
Biopics have become a popular genre in Hindi cinema in recent years. Movies like 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag', 'Mary Kom', and 'Sanju' have been hugely successful at the box office, showcasing the life stories of famous personalities from various fields. These films offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of these individuals, inspiring millions of viewers.
The Emergence of Women-Led Films
In a significant shift from the male-dominated narratives, the last few years have seen the emergence of women-led films. Movies like 'Queen', 'Piku', and 'Neerja' have not only been successful at the box office but have also received critical acclaim. These films have challenged the stereotypical portrayal of women in Hindi cinema and have paved the way for more such narratives.
The Future of Hindi Cinema
As we look ahead, the future of Hindi cinema seems promising. With the rise of OTT platforms, filmmakers now have a wider platform to showcase their work. This has led to the production of diverse content, catering to different types of audiences. From hard-hitting social dramas to light-hearted comedies, Hindi cinema has come a long way and continues to evolve, making it one of the most dynamic film industries in the world.