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If you think of an Indian film that is willing to be unconventional, that doesn't shy away from controversial or outlier subject matter, you cannot help but think of Balaji Motion Pictures. The film division of Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms, this juggernaut is known for breaking boundaries to tell stories that will either entertain you or disturb you.
From unique love stories to daring thrillers to comedies that will keep you (literally) laughing, Best of Balaji Motion Pictures celebrates bold, sophisticated, and unforgettable storytelling. Let's dive into the best of their works that made an impact.
1. The Dirty Picture (2011)
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Available on: Prime Video
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This is when Balaji's gumption truly paid off. The Dirty Picture was a statement rather than a run-of-the-mill film. Balaji Motion Pictures , based on the life of Silk Smitha, has changed the dialogic structure of female-operated narrative in Bollywood.
It's a multi-layered narrative with gutsy dialogues and Balan's once-in-a-lifetime performance made it a cultural phenomenon.It's honest, raw and unapologetically brassy—exactly the type of narrative that established Balaji's position as a filmmaker known for impactful films..
2. Ek Villain (2014)
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Available on: Disney+ Hotstar
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This dark revenge flick really took everyone by surprise; unexpected romantically with a dash of suspense, Ek Villain had style and substance. Riteish Deshmukh played a villain role that really showcased his talent, while Sidharth Malhotra played the anti-hero.
Songs like Galliyan became legendary after the soundtrack was a strong chart-filler.Because of its disturbing unpredictability and emotional weight, it's one of those films that linger. One of the Best of Balaji Motion Pictures library.
3. Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Available on: Netflix
This one definitely preserved the reputation of Mumbai's underworld! The film is loud, strong, and brutally, though honestly, represents criminals and is based on an actual meeting of gangsters and Mumbai police. Sanjay Dutt, Vivek Oberoi, and Suniel Shetty are on full display in this engaging crime drama.
This was one of Balaji's earliest hits, with all competitors realizing Balaji is in the game and not going anywhere.While strong performances and engaging stories, it maintains a conflict and is a one off in subject matter.
4. Once Upon a Time in Mumbai (2010)
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Available on: Prime Video
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High-stakes drama featuring retro Bollywood flavor and gangster film make this epic gangster film come alive. When you combine the iconic performances of Ajay Devgn and Emraan Hashmi, it brought back all the swank of 70s Bombay and all the emotional complexity of crime plus ambition.
The film is slick and stylish with a ton of powerful dialogues that are easily remembered as part of the pop culture memory. A real win for the best of Balaji Motion Pictures from both a critical and commercial standpoint.
Read more: Top Vicky Kaushal Movies You Can't Miss – From Chhaava to Raazi
5. Udta Punjab (2016)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Available on: Netflix
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A movie that was not afraid of firing up controversy. Co-produced by Phantom Films, Udta Punjab showcased Punjab's drug problem in all of its unpolished glory. Sure, it was controversial, but it was also extremely daring, with Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh.
This is one of the most memorable entries from the Best of Balaji Motion Pictures list just on the basis of Alia Bhatt's performance. It proves that Balaji enlightens and educates as much as it entertains.
6. Kyaa Kool Hain Hum (2005)
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Available on: YouTube
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What a mischievous little pleasure! It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but this irreverent adult comedy is a trend unto itself. It developed a cult fan following and helped escalate the use of racy humor.
Best of Balaji Motion Pictures proved it could push the envelope on both dark drama as well as racy humor, while Tushar Kapoor and Ritesh Deshmukh provided laughter.
7. Ragini MMS (2011)
IMDb Rating: 4.9/10
Available on: ALTBalaji, ZEE5
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A found-footage take on a supernatural thriller? For you, that's Ragini MMS, a bold Indian horror film that appealed to a millennial audience. Ragini MMS was inspired by true events, and captivated audiences, generating conversations, by combining a voyeuristic narrative with chills and thrills.
It paved the way for a sequel and even a spin-off web series, showing how well Balaji understands the difference in guest usage.
8. LSD: Love, Sex Aur Dhokha (2010)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Available on: Prime Video
A disturbingly bold, experimental, and edgy film, LSD was well ahead of its time. Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, it explored contemporary relationships, media play and voyeurism from the point of view of the encroachment of hidden cameras and a documentary style narrative. It is still just as pertinent today and is one of the most bold contributions to the Best of Balaji Motion Pictures catalogue - Balaji was to be the sole owner.
Balaji is special because they are willing to put themselves in danger. They dive right in -whether that means jumping into an issue based drama, or taking a risk with an erotic thriller, or trying something different like romantic comedies. They were also forerunners for promoting digital-first content through ALTBalaji, understanding viewer behavior in a changing world, long before it was fashionable to do that.At the end of the day, the Best of Balaji Motion Pictures represents a studio that does not care about judgement- they simply want to tell good stories!
Balaji Motion Pictures has something for each and everyone who are fed up with formula movies 'n also wants something with more soul, spice, or flare. They have been producing films which will be revolving in your brain for quite a long time, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai to Ek Villain and The Dirty Picture to Udta Punjab, these films have extraordinary processes behind them.
Be on the lookout next time you see the Balaji name when watching television; you're about to witness something bold, brilliant, and totally unimaginable!
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