From drama to comedy, action to dance, Bollywood films encompass a wide array of genres within a single cinematic experience.
India’s Hindi film industry is a treasure trove of artistic storytelling that often goes unnoticed by audiences in the West. With runtimes typically ranging from two and a half to over three hours, these films offer epic tales filled with entertainment. They bring laughs, thrills, tears, and, of course, unforgettable music!
Netflix serves as a wonderful platform for discovering Bollywood offerings, with Watch With Us as your helpful guide. Here are three must-watch films, all featuring Bollywood’s legendary star, Shah Rukh Khan.
‘Dil Se’ (1998)
This political romantic thriller showcases journalist Amar (Khan) who becomes infatuated with a mysterious woman during his assignments, only to face her cold indifference. Despite their mutual attraction, the woman, Meghna (Manisha Koirala), believes she cannot be with him. After Amar is engaged to another woman, Meghna reappears seeking aid, burdened with a devastating secret.
Dil Se was initially a box office disappointment in 1998, critiqued for its unconventional storyline. Its overt political themes, complexity, and darker tones make it a captivating romance that’s both sensual and heart-wrenching. The film integrates humor, often through Khan’s performance, portraying Amar as more obsessive than charming. However, the music of Dil Se remains an unforgettable highlight.
‘Om Shanti Om’ (2007)
A timeless tale of supernatural love and a tribute to Hindi cinema, Om Shanti Om is set in the 1970s, featuring Khan as Omi, a background actor smitten by starlet Shanti Priya (Deepika Padukone). However, Shanti’s love for a deceitful producer catalyzes a series of events leading to murder, reincarnation, and a gripping revenge saga.
With its romantic tragedy, stunning action sequences, catchy musical numbers, and Khan’s endearing comedic elements, Om Shanti Om marks the iconic first on-screen pairing of Khan and Padukone, with undeniable chemistry that sweeps audiences into its emotional whirlpool. Prepare to fall in love with the magic and sorrow of Om Shanti Om, especially its catchy tune “Dard-E-Disco.”
‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ (2003)
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, Kal Ho Naa Ho weaves the tale of Naina (Preity Zinta), an uptight MBA student who finds herself drawn to the charming Aman (Khan). Despite their palpable chemistry, Aman is burdened by a secret that keeps him from pursuing a relationship with her. In a selfless act, he encourages Naina to seek happiness with her best friend, Rohit (Saif Ali Khan), believing he can provide what he cannot.
Kal Ho Naa Ho is an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you in tears while simultaneously captivating you with its catchy tunes such as “Maahi Ve” and “Pretty Woman,” a Bollywood twist on Roy Orbison’s classic. Khan delivers one of his most memorable performances, perfectly complemented by Zinta, allowing audiences to experience the deep yearning inherent in Aman and Naina’s ill-fated love story.
