A message for newcomers to the world of Hindi cinema: you have a lot to catch up on. For those of you feeling turned off by the idea of scrolling through a bunch of really good movies, but low fidelity by today’s standards, take a look at some of the many newer movies available to watch these days. Although many of these have started to depart from more classic Hindi cinema, where romance, comedy, family and friendship were all present in a movie, they are still very fun and interesting entertainment. Here are the top 3 Hindi movies of 2009 and what they are about (“best” in this case means top grossing:
Hindi movies of 2009
1.3 Idiots
This movie broke all the box office records for opening day upon its release, and it became the highest grossing movie of all time in India (if you don’t adjust for inflation). A buddy flick that delivers plenty of laughs, the film centers on three former college classmates seeking to win the love of their neighbor while posing as grandchildren of a blind couple. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and with Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor as Rancho and Pia, respectively.
2. Wanted
A film that focuses on the balance between organized crime and the law in Mumbai (formerly Bombay), starring the cold-blooded hitman Radhe (played by Salman Khan) that spans both worlds. The daughter of the police commissioner, Jhanvi (Ayesha Tatiak) falls in love with Radhe, our mafia gangster, and her world is shaken when she realizes that people are not necessarily all good. Wanted is a modern story of these complex betrayals and relationships that the average person does not see. Directed by Prabhu Deva.
3. I love Aaj Kal
Translated into English as “Love These Days”, this film is about the timelessness of love. In it, we follow Jai and Meera’s relationship from union to separation, and if it can transcend oceans, time, and even other partners! A modern couple living in London, they decide to grant each other the freedom to go their own ways in life instead of tying themselves to each other. So Meera returns to India and begins dating her boss, Vikram, while Jai remains in London pursuing his dream job in San Francisco and also starting a relationship with another woman. This film has a special appeal for those modern young people who know what it is or who are currently dealing with a long-term relationship and commitment and work issues.