Sylvie 
Bollywood has gifted us many blockbuster hits, but some movies with profound storytelling and exceptional performances still remain underrated. In Mumbai, cine lovers cherish movies like ‘October’, ‘Maqbool’, and ‘Lootera’ for their unique narrative styles and depth, though these gems didn’t receive the love they truly deserved during their original release.
‘October’
Shoojit Sircar’s ‘October’ stands out as a subtle yet deeply emotional love story. Set in the bustling city of Mumbai, the film takes an unconventional approach to exploring relationships. Varun Dhawan delivers one of his most restrained performances, portraying the nuances of compassion, loss, and unconditional love. While the movie’s introspective tone didn’t appeal broadly to mainstream viewers initially, it has grown into a cult classic, appreciated by true cinema aficionados.
‘Maqbool’
‘Maqbool’, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, is a brilliant adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, transposed into the Mumbai underworld. The film delves into the dark side of ambition, power, and betrayal with gripping performances by Irrfan Khan, Tabu, and Pankaj Kapur. Despite critical acclaim, ‘Maqbool’ never reached the commercial heights it deserved. Its complex narrative and intense characters make it a masterpiece that Bollywood fans often recommend.
‘Lootera’
‘Lootera’ offers a period romantic drama set against the beautiful backdrop of Kolkata. Featuring Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha, this film mesmerizes with its soulful music, elegant storytelling, and vintage charm. It beautifully portrays the theme of fleeting love and heartbreak. Although ‘Lootera’ didn’t perform well commercially, it remains a favorite for viewers who seek poetic cinema infused with artistic brilliance.
These movies represent the soul of Bollywood’s artistic cinema segment. Their exploration of human emotions and unconventional storytelling differentiates them from typical Bollywood fare. Mumbai, being the heart of Bollywood, continues to celebrate these underrated masterpieces, encouraging audiences to revisit these films for a richer cinematic experience.
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