Introduction:
Bollywood, known for its grandiose blockbusters and star-studded releases, often overshadows some hidden gems that may not have received the attention they deserve. These underrated movies in Bollywood possess exceptional storytelling, compelling performances, and innovative filmmaking, yet they somehow slipped under the radar. In this article, we present a curated list of top underrated movies in Bollywood that deserve more recognition for their cinematic brilliance.
Directed by Suresh Triveni, “Tumhari Sulu” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that revolves around Sulochana (played by Vidya Balan), a middle-class housewife with dreams of becoming a radio jockey. Balan’s stellar performance and the film’s slice-of-life storytelling strike a perfect balance between humor and emotions. Despite its critical acclaim, “Tumhari Sulu” deserves more recognition for its portrayal of a relatable and endearing protagonist.
“A Death in the Gunj,” directed by Konkona Sen Sharma, is a haunting psychological thriller set in the late 1970s. The film explores the dynamics of a family gathering at a colonial-era home in McCluskieganj and delves into the complexities of human relationships. With its atmospheric storytelling, nuanced performances by an ensemble cast, and gripping narrative, “A Death in the Gunj” is a gem that deserves more attention from cinephiles.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, “Masaan” is a poignant drama that weaves together multiple narratives set against the backdrop of Varanasi. The film delves into themes of love, loss, caste dynamics, and societal taboos. “Masaan” received critical acclaim at international film festivals, but it remains underrated in mainstream Bollywood. Its powerful performances, evocative storytelling, and beautiful cinematography make it a cinematic masterpiece worth watching.
Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, “Kaminey” is an edgy crime thriller with a gripping screenplay and standout performances by Shahid Kapoor in a double role. The film revolves around twin brothers with distinct speech impediments, caught in a web of crime and politics. Despite receiving praise for its unique storytelling and skillful direction, “Kaminey” remains underappreciated among mainstream Bollywood audiences.
“Udaan,” directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, is a coming-of-age drama that follows the story of a young boy, Rohan (played by Rajat Barmecha), as he returns home after being expelled from boarding school. The film beautifully captures the struggles of adolescence, dreams, and familial expectations. “Udaan” received critical acclaim and multiple awards at international film festivals, yet it remains an underrated gem in Bollywood’s vast array of films.
Conclusion:
Bollywood, with its vast and diverse filmography, houses many underrated movies that often get overshadowed by high-profile releases. The movies mentioned above, “Tumhari Sulu,” “A Death in the Gunj,” “Masaan,” “Kaminey,” and “Udaan,” are exemplary pieces of cinematic artistry that deserve more recognition and appreciation from a wider audience. These underrated gems boast outstanding performances, thought-provoking storytelling, and artistic vision that add depth and diversity to the realm of Bollywood cinema. For cinephiles seeking a fresh and enriching cinematic experience, these underrated movies are a must-watch to unearth the hidden treasures of Bollywood.
