Top Bollywood Movies Of 2016: A Look Back
Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best Bollywood movies that graced the silver screen back in 2016. It was a year of diverse storytelling, stellar performances, and some unforgettable music. From intense dramas to light-hearted comedies, Bollywood delivered a mixed bag of entertainment that kept us hooked. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into the cinematic treasures of 2016!
Box Office Blockbusters and Critical Acclaim
2016 was a year where content truly shined, and several films managed to strike a chord with both critics and audiences alike. Among the blockbusters that year, one name stands out prominently: 'Dangal.' This biographical sports drama, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and starring Aamir Khan, told the inspiring story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a wrestler who trains his daughters to become world-class wrestlers. 'Dangal' wasn't just a commercial success; it was a cultural phenomenon that resonated with audiences across the country and even internationally. Its powerful narrative, coupled with Aamir Khan's dedicated performance, made it a must-watch and a benchmark for sports dramas in Bollywood. The film beautifully captured the struggles, triumphs, and societal challenges faced by the Phogat family, making it a deeply emotional and impactful cinematic experience.
Another movie that created waves was 'Sultan,' a sports drama featuring Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma. While also centered around wrestling, 'Sultan' explored the personal journey of its titular character, a wrestler grappling with fame, love, and redemption. The film was a massive commercial success, largely due to Salman Khan's star power and the engaging storyline that combined sports action with emotional drama. Anushka Sharma's performance as a female wrestler was also widely appreciated, adding depth and dimension to the narrative. 'Sultan' delivered high-octane action sequences and memorable musical numbers, making it a complete entertainer for the masses. The film's exploration of themes like perseverance, sacrifice, and the importance of family resonated with audiences, contributing to its widespread appeal and box office success.
Apart from these sports dramas, 2016 also saw the release of 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,' a romantic drama directed by Karan Johar. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the film explored complex themes of love, friendship, and unrequited emotions. 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' was a visual treat, with stunning locations and glamorous costumes, and its music became a chart-topping sensation. While the film received mixed reviews for its storyline, the performances of the lead actors were widely praised, and its emotional depth resonated with many viewers. The film's exploration of the complexities of modern relationships and the nuances of unrequited love made it a talking point among audiences. Its melodious soundtrack and the on-screen chemistry between the actors contributed to its commercial success and enduring popularity.
Critically Acclaimed Gems
Beyond the box office hits, 2016 also brought forth several critically acclaimed films that pushed the boundaries of storytelling and showcased the talent of both established and emerging filmmakers. 'Neerja,' directed by Ram Madhvani and starring Sonam Kapoor, was a biographical thriller based on the life of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life to save passengers during a plane hijacking. The film was a gripping and emotionally charged tribute to Neerja's bravery and selflessness. Sonam Kapoor's portrayal of Neerja was widely lauded, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. 'Neerja' was not just a commercial success; it was a moving and inspiring story that resonated deeply with audiences, reminding them of the power of courage and humanity in the face of adversity.
Another gem from 2016 was 'Pink,' a social thriller directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury and starring Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, and Kirti Kulhari. 'Pink' tackled the sensitive issue of consent and the societal biases faced by women in India. The film was a powerful commentary on the prevailing patriarchal attitudes and the importance of respecting a woman's right to choose. Amitabh Bachchan's compelling performance as a lawyer fighting for justice for the women was particularly noteworthy. 'Pink' sparked a nationwide conversation about gender equality and the need for a more progressive and just society. Its impactful storyline and strong performances made it a critical and commercial success, solidifying its place as a significant film in Bollywood history.
'Kapoor & Sons,' directed by Shakun Batra, offered a refreshing take on family dynamics and relationships. Starring Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt, and Rishi Kapoor, the film explored the complexities and secrets within a seemingly perfect family. 'Kapoor & Sons' was praised for its nuanced writing, realistic characters, and stellar performances. The film touched upon themes of love, loss, and acceptance, resonating with audiences who could relate to the challenges and joys of family life. Its heartwarming storyline and relatable characters made it a critical and commercial success, earning accolades for its direction, writing, and performances.
Comedy and Romance
Of course, no Bollywood year is complete without a dose of comedy and romance! In 2016, 'Airlift,' directed by Raja Krishna Menon and starring Akshay Kumar and Nimrat Kaur, was a thrilling and patriotic film based on the real-life evacuation of Indians stranded in Kuwait during the Gulf War. Akshay Kumar's portrayal of a businessman who spearheads the rescue mission was widely appreciated. 'Airlift' was a gripping and inspiring story of courage, resilience, and the spirit of humanity. Its patriotic theme and thrilling narrative made it a commercial success, resonating with audiences who were moved by the extraordinary efforts to save thousands of lives.
'Dear Zindagi,' directed by Gauri Shinde and starring Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan, was a heartwarming and insightful film about a young woman grappling with her emotions and seeking guidance from a therapist. The film explored themes of mental health, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing imperfections. Alia Bhatt's performance was widely praised for its honesty and vulnerability, and Shah Rukh Khan's role as the therapist provided a comforting and reassuring presence. 'Dear Zindagi' was a refreshing and relatable film that resonated with audiences who were navigating their own emotional journeys. Its positive message and heartwarming storyline made it a critical and commercial success, sparking conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking help.
The Music That Moved Us
Bollywood music is an integral part of the cinematic experience, and 2016 delivered some unforgettable soundtracks. 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' boasted a chart-topping album composed by Pritam, with songs like "Channa Mereya" and "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" becoming anthems of love and heartbreak. 'Sultan' also featured a memorable soundtrack, with songs like "Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai" and "Jag Ghoomeya" becoming instant hits. Other films like 'Kapoor & Sons' and 'Baar Baar Dekho' also contributed to the musical landscape of 2016, offering a diverse range of melodies and rhythms that kept us grooving throughout the year.
Conclusion
2016 was a fantastic year for Bollywood, offering a diverse range of films that entertained, inspired, and challenged us. From the sports dramas like 'Dangal' and 'Sultan' to the social thrillers like 'Pink' and the heartwarming dramas like 'Dear Zindagi,' there was something for everyone. The year also showcased the incredible talent of Bollywood actors, directors, and musicians, solidifying the industry's position as a global force in entertainment. As we look back on the cinematic treasures of 2016, we can appreciate the creativity, passion, and dedication that went into making these films a memorable part of our lives. So, here's to Bollywood and the magic it brings to the silver screen!
