If you are familiar with names like G.One, Krrish, Drona, Flying Jatt or even Jaadu … this one’s for you!
Bollywood has been quite experimental in the last two decade. I think its safe to say that filmmakers have really pushed the envelope by experimenting various genres. But for some reason our superhero films don’t seem to do well.
And that’s something I don’t understand because I think most of them have been quite brilliant. And I also don’t understand why we always compare our cinema with Hollywood?
I asked you about Ra.One, Krrish and Flying Jatt.
All those films aren’t just about a superhero with a random power to save the world. They are well developed characters with very unique cultural, social and even political references that are relatable with the Indian audience. But they are either completely rejected by viewers or becomes one of those “underrated” films.
My favorite is Ra.One – the story revolves around a villain from a video game where the “bad guy” is named Ravan – the obvious reference is from Ramayan but the film actually explained it being short for Random Access Version One.
And the protagonist is G.One – the “good one.” They kept it so simple but I that’s what made it so interesting.
Same with Krrish – a guy who inherits superpowers from his dad and uses them wisely. I personally liked Krrish 3 more than the prequels which is based on a deadly virus that spread rapidly around the world and scientists are working on its antidote.
Note: The film was made in 2013, not in 2020. Way ahead of its time!
Also, the concept of an evil genius named Kaal who controls the world on a wheelchair by creating a team of human-animal hybrids called “maanvars” is incredible. And I’m sure you remember Kaya played by Kangana Ranaut.
Another film that barely got any recognition was Flying Jatt starring Tiger Shroff as the super hero – If you haven’t seen it, please do – it is available on streaming platform.
Flying Jatt was is such a smart film about how a superhero who saves the planet by fighting an evil force, Raka that thrives on pollutants on Earth. So the more pollution we have on Earth, the stronger he becomes and destroys the planet.
Not too long ago, there were two small-scale “super-hero-ish” films where the hero is like a boy-next-door – Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota and Bhavesh Joshi Superhero. Neither film was a commercial success. Sure, there are some flaws here and there, but I know for a fact that people loved both the films. Surya and Bhavesh become superheroes who fight local neighborhood crimes.
Side note: There may be a collaboration between the two neighborhood superheroes soon. Know more in the interview below:
We might get our very own collaborative superhero franchise soon.
The good news is that there are some interesting projects in the pipeline – there’s buzz about Krrish 4, a collab between Katrina Kaif and director Ali Abbas Zafar, and the highly awaited Brahmastra.
Which one are you most excited about?
