Mumbai’s Hidden Gems: ‘October’, ‘Maqbool’, and ‘Lootera’ – Bollywood’s Most Underrated Movies!
Sylvie 
Bollywood often dazzles with its big-budget movies and blockbuster hits, but some hidden gems deserve more love and appreciation. Today, we shine the spotlight on three underrated Bollywood movies that have captured the hearts of cinephiles with their unique storytelling and brilliant performances.
‘October’
Shoojit Sircar’s ‘October’ is a subtle love story that stands apart in Bollywood’s usual dramatic style. Set in Mumbai, the film features Varun Dhawan in one of his most restrained and heartfelt roles. It beautifully explores themes of love, loss, and compassion through a delicate narrative that showcases emotions in a very fresh and out-of-the-box angle. When it first released, its deep emotional layers didn’t quite resonate with the mainstream audience, yet over time, it has earned a cult status among those who appreciate thoughtful cinema.
‘Maqbool’
‘Maqbool,’ directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, is another masterpiece that flew under the radar but left a lasting impact on Bollywood. Adapted from Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Mumbai’s dark underbelly provides the perfect backdrop for this crime thriller. With powerhouse performances from Irrfan Khan, Tabu, and Pankaj Kapur, the film delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and moral conflict in a gritty and realistic manner. Despite critical acclaim, ‘Maqbool’ didn’t get the box office attention it truly deserved but remains a remarkable film for all cinephiles.
‘Lootera’
Last but not least, ‘Lootera,’ set in the picturesque towns of West Bengal, combines romance with an old-world charm rarely seen in Bollywood romances. Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film stars Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha in roles that break their stereotypical characters. The movie is inspired by O. Henry’s short story ‘The Last Leaf,’ and it tells a poignant tale of love and sacrifice with mesmerizing cinematography and a soulful soundtrack. Though it didn’t make waves commercially, ‘Lootera’ is a cinematic gem that deserves to be revisited.
Each of these films showcases Bollywood’s ability to experiment with different storytelling techniques and genres while focusing on compelling narratives and performances rather than typical masala formulas. Whether it is the emotional delicacy of ‘October,’ the intense drama of ‘Maqbool,’ or the melancholic romance of ‘Lootera,’ these movies stand out as true works of art.
For Bollywood fans who seek quality cinema beyond commercial hit formulas, these films provide the perfect insight into the industry’s potential for diverse and meaningful storytelling.
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