Anurag Basu began his career in the Indian film industry with television, making a significant impact as a director and screenwriter. The filmmaker gained widespread recognition for his work on popular television shows – Tara and Koshish… Ek Aashaa. However, Basu made his Bollywood debut with Emraan Hashmi and Malika Sherawat starrer Murder in 2004. The crime thriller marked a turning point in the filmmaker’s career, establishing him as a director with a knack for storytelling that appealed to a broad audience.
On the special occasion of Anurag Basu’s birthday, let us revive some of his Bollywood masterpieces that captivated our hearts and souls.
Anurag Basu’s Directorial Magic
Here are the top films that define Anurag Basu’s journey in Bollywood.
1. Gangster
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Anurag Basu’s directorial drama revolves around the complex relationships and struggles of its central characters. As the plot unfolds, Kangana Ranaut’s character’s mysterious past catches up with her, revealing her involvement with a notorious underworld figure, played by Shiney Ahuja.
The film keeps the audience on the edge with its suspenseful elements and emotional depth. Moreover, Kangana’s performance received acclaim for her portrayal of a complex and conflicted character.
2. Life in a… Metro
Platform: Netflix
The multi-narrative drama offers a glimpse into the lives of various individuals living in the bustling city of Mumbai. The film interweaves multiple storylines, each portraying different facets of urban life and relationships. The film features an ensemble cast including Dharmendra, Irrfan Khan, Kay Kay Menon, Konkona Sen Sharma, Sharman Joshi, Shilpa Shetty, and others.
Life in a… Metro is known for its soulful music, engaging storytelling, and the nuanced performances.
3. Barfi!
Platform: Netflix
The heartwarming tale follows the life of Murphy ‘Barfi’ Johnson, portrayed by Ranbir Kapoor. Barfi is a joyful and free-spirited young man who is deaf and mute. The film beautifully captures his interactions with the world and his unique way of experiencing life.
Anurag Basu’s directorial doesn’t just focus on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities but celebrates the beauty of life’s imperfections. The film also features Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D’Cruz in key roles.
4. Kites
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The romantic action thriller stars Hrithik Roshan and Barbara Mori in the lead roles. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of freedom, with the characters navigating a complex web of relationships and consequences.
Kites is notable for its international flavor and visually stunning sequences, making it a unique addition to Anurag Basu’s filmography.
5. Jagga Jasoos
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The adventurous drama follows the story of Jagga, a young man with a stammer, who sets out on a quest to find his missing father. Featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, the film is presented in a musical format, where the characters express their emotions through songs and choreographed sequences.
The narrative unfolds in a whimsical and fantastical manner, with the lead characters traversing various landscapes and encountering eccentric characters.
6. Ludo
Platform: Netflix
The film unfolds through interconnected stories, blending elements of crime, comedy, and drama. The film revolves around four main characters whose lives intersect in unexpected and chaotic ways. The narrative structure is inspired by the board game, where chance and luck play a significant role in determining the characters’ fates.
The film features an ensemble cast, including Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Bachchan, Rajkummar Rao, Aditya Roy Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, and Rohit Saraf, among others.
Over the years, Anurag Basu has become known for his ability to blend genres, create emotionally resonant narratives, and bring out exceptional performances from his actors. The filmmaker’s journey in the industry reflects a commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering films that leave a lasting impact on audiences.