The cinematic world is full of surprises, and Bollywood seems to excel at pulling the rug from under our feet. There’s nothing quite like randomly stumbling upon a movie, with no expectations, only to be blown away by its excellence. It’s a healthy sensation as a moviegoer and the perfect antidote to the overhyped A-lister flicks that fall short of their promises. We’ve compiled a list of such movies that made us sit up and take notice. These gems are the unsung heroes of Bollywood that deserve more recognition.
Underrated Movies That We Watched With Zero Expectations But Turned Out To Be Great
1. Qarib Qarib Singlle
Qarib Qarib Singlle is a 2017 rom-com starring the late Irrfan Khan and Parvathy Thiruvothu. It’s an entertaining and witty take on modern-day dating that explores the complexities of finding love in the digital age. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, and the film’s music adds to its charm.
2. Uunchai
Uunchai is a heartwarming tale about three elderly friends who embark on a journey to Everest Base Camp to fulfill the final request of their late friend, Bhupen. Along the way, they are joined by Mala, Bhupen’s long-lost love, who laments not fighting for their love. What begins as a simple excursion becomes a psychological, emotional, and spiritual adventure as they find the true meaning of freedom.
3. Thursday
Thursday is a gripping crime thriller that takes place over a single day. The direction, screenplay, and performances by the cast elevate it to another level, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
4. Dasvi
Dasvi is a political satire that follows the story of a 10th-grade dropout who becomes a politician. The film’s dialogues and performances by the cast, especially Abhishek Bachchan, making it a hilarious and insightful commentary on Indian politics.
5. Raat Akeli Hai
Raat Akeli Hai is a gripping murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. The direction and performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
6. Badla
Badla is a suspense thriller that revolves around a woman accused of murdering her lover. The direction, screenplay, and performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu make it a gripping and intense watch.
7. Photograph
Photograph is a heartwarming film that explores the themes of love and companionship. The direction, cinematography, and performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sanya Malhotra make it a poignant and beautiful watch.
8. Love Sonia
Love Sonia is a hard-hitting film that exposes the dark world of human trafficking. The direction and performances by the cast, particularly Mrunal Thakur and Richa Chadha, make it a powerful and gut-wrenching watch.
Sharmaji Ki Namkeen
Sharmaji Ki Namkeen is a posthumous release featuring the late Rishi Kapoor in his last role. The film explores the themes of ageing and regret and is a heartwarming and emotional watch.
10. Jogi
Last but not least, “Jogi” is a period drama film directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, starring Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role. The film received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics, with praise for the performances, direction, cinematography, background score, editing, production design, and themes.Â
11. Meri Pyari Bindu
Meri Pyari Bindu is a coming-of-age love story that subverts Bollywood’s traditional happy endings. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, chronicling the lives of Abhimanyu Roy and Bindu, childhood sweethearts who meet as neighbors. The film captures the essence of their relationship, and the music adds a sense of melancholy to the story.
Which one is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below.