Mumbai’s Untold Gems: ‘October’, ‘Maqbool’, and ‘Lootera’ – Bollywood’s Most Underrated Movies
Sylvie 
Mumbai’s film industry, popularly known as Bollywood, is renowned for its grand productions, star-studded casts, and unforgettable music. However, amidst the blockbuster hits and commercial successes, several films have often flown under the radar despite their outstanding storytelling and cinematic brilliance. Films like ‘October’, ‘Maqbool’, and ‘Lootera’ stand out as cinematic gems that deserve more recognition and appreciation.
October: A Tale of Quiet Excellence
‘October’ is a beautifully understated film that delves into the themes of love, loss, and empathy. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, the movie follows the story of a young hospitality trainee whose life takes a profound turn after his colleague suffers from a severe brain injury.
The film is praised for its subtle narrative, sensitive performances, especially by Varun Dhawan, and aesthetically pleasing visuals. Unlike typical Bollywood romances, October chooses to focus on the nuances of human emotions and the silent bonds that connect us.
Maqbool: Shakespeare’s Macbeth in a Bombay Underworld
‘Maqbool’, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, is an Indian adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, set against the gritty backdrop of Mumbai’s underworld. The film is noted for its dark tone, powerful performances by Irrfan Khan, Tabu, and Pankaj Kapur, and its clever screenplay.
Despite critical acclaim, Maqbool remains underrated due to its intense and bleak narrative which contrasts sharply with the more popular Bollywood masala films. The movie’s strength lies in its complex characters and hauntingly beautiful music, which elevates the classic tragedy to a new cultural context.
Lootera: A Poetic Romance Frozen in Time
‘Lootera’ is a visually poetic period romance inspired by O. Henry’s short story The Last Leaf. Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, it stars Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha, whose performances bring depth and charisma to their bittersweet love story.
The film attracts attention for its lush cinematography, evocative music, and poignant storytelling that captures the essence of 1950s India. Despite its artistic merit, Lootera did not garner massive box office success, making it a hidden treasure for discerning Bollywood fans.
Why These Films Matter
Each of these films shares common traits that distinguish them from mainstream Bollywood cinema:
- Innovative storytelling that prioritizes character depth and narrative over commercial formulas.
- Strong artistic direction evident in the film’s visuals, sound, and pacing.
- Memorable performances by talented actors committed to their roles.
They showcase the diversity and richness of Bollywood beyond the dance numbers and melodrama, emphasizing cinema as an art form.
Conclusion
For those looking to explore Bollywood beyond the typical blockbusters, ‘October’, ‘Maqbool’, and ‘Lootera’ offer compelling narratives, exceptional filmmaking, and emotional depth. These underrated movies serve as reminders that true cinematic gems often reside in the quieter corners of the industry.
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