Ram Gopal Varma worked as a video store owner, which allowed him to watch a vast array of movies, further fueling his passion for filmmaking. The filmmaker’s career in the entertainment industry started after the release of his first film Siva in 1989. The Telugu film starred Nagarjuna Akkineni in the lead role and was such a monumental success that it was later remade in Hindi as Shiva in 1990, marking Varma’s entry into Bollywood.
Over the years, Ram Gopal Varma has become known for his work across multiple genres, though he is particularly renowned for his crime and horror films. The filmmaker’s notable works include Rangeela, Satya, Bhoot, Sarkar, and Company among others.
On the special occasion of Varma’s birthday, let us go down memory lane to witness his magic through a series of his best films that tackle bold themes and his innovative approach to storytelling and cinematography.
Quintessential RGV Experience
Here is the list of the best films of Ram Gopal Varma that define his iconic legacy.
1. Rangeela
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The story revolves around a young aspiring actress who gets torn between the affections of a boy who has always been by her side, and the man who offered her the glamorous life she has always dreamed of. The film explores themes of love, friendship, ambition, and the allure of the film industry, culminating in the protagonist’s realization of what truly matters in life.
The film features Urmila Matodkar, Aamir Khan, and Jackie Shroff in the lead roles. Ram Gopal Varma’s directorial was a major box office success and is remembered for its vibrant music, colorful cinematography, and compelling performances.
2. Satya
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The crime thriller centers around the titular character Satya, who lands in the city of Mumbai with no purpose in life. However, his life takes a drastic turn when he gets to meet Bhiku Mhatre, an influential figure in Mumbai’s underworld.
The film intricately portrays the dynamics within the underworld, the corrupt practices of the police force, and the political connections that enable criminal activities in the city. Satya sets the benchmark for crime dramas in Bollywood, which inspired a generation of filmmakers and actors.
3. Company
Platform: Zee5
Ram Gopal Varma’s Company is lauded for its stark portrayal of the underworld. The film explores the complex web of the Mumbai underworld, focusing on the operations, rivalries, and politics within criminal organizations, drawing significant inspiration from real-life events and figures in the Indian mafia.
The crime drama features an ensemble star cast including Ajay Devgn, Vivek Oberoi, Manisha Koirala, Mohanlal, and Urmila Matodkar, among others. Ram Gopal Varma’s direction and the film’s screenplay effectively capture the essence of the Mumbai mafia, making the film a seminal work that influenced many subsequent Indian films in the crime genre.
4. Sarkar
Platform: Netflix
The film is a gripping portrayal of the Indian underworld through the lens of politics and power, set against the backdrop of Mumbai. Sarkar showcases the story of a powerful leader, Subhash Nagre aka Sarkar, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan, who heads a parallel government in the city, revered and feared by many.
The plot thickens as betrayals surface, loyalties are tested, and the family’s internal dynamics become strained under the pressure of external threats. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Kay Kay Menon, Katrina Kaif, and Anupam Kher in significant roles.
Sarkar was both a critical and commercial success, leading to two sequels, Sarkar Raj (2008) and Sarkar 3 (2017), making it one of the most notable franchises in Indian cinema.
5. Bhoot
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the supernatural horror film stars Urmila Matondkar and Ajay Devgn in the lead roles. When the couple moves to a new apartment, the wife realizes some paranormal activities within the house. As Swati’s encounters with the supernatural become more frequent and intense, Vishal notices drastic changes in her behavior. Later, he discovers the tragic story of Manjeet, who was betrayed and murdered, leading to her spirit’s unrest.
Ram Gopal Varma’s direction and the film’s innovative approach to the horror genre have made Bhoot a landmark film in Indian cinema.
Ram Gopal Varma has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema through his bold and groundbreaking contributions. Renowned for his distinctive storytelling and audacious approach to filmmaking, the maverick filmmaker has redefined genres, shattered conventions, and pushed the boundaries of creativity. The talented director has carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema, earning him a place among the most influential filmmakers of his generation.