The Lok Sabha elections 2024 are underway in the country, and the country is coloured in vibrant political colour. Campaign trails, rallies, and political gatherings are being held around the cities, allowing everyone to voice their opinions on political issues. Keeping it in mind, we have listed ‘8 most impactful political movies to watch this election season.’
A political atmosphere is dominating the nation and what can be better than being a part of it by watching some thought-provoking Bollywood films?
Best Political Movies To Watch This Election Season:
1. Newton (2017)
India has a vast geographical landscape, and it’s always a challenge to conduct elections in every part of the country. It is mainly conducting elections in sensitive and Naxalite-controlled regions. Newton is a critically acclaimed black comedy that is based on this theme. Amit V Masurkar directs it and showcases the challenges an idealistic Newton Kumar faces.
He is a government employee tasked with conducting elections in a Naxalite-controlled area of Chhattisgarh. It’s filled with humour and explores the difficulties in holding free and fair elections in regions affected by the insurgency. Also, it takes a dig at the entire election process and makes you think about it.
2. Rang De Basanti (2006)
Youth is the most significant part of a country’s population and often holds strong opinions about its politics and developments. Also, they are the ones who raise voices against the wrong and are willing to work for a change. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s iconic film Rang De Basanti describes this very theme.
It is based on a group of affluent youth who are shaken out of their self-absorbed lives after knowing about India’s forgotten martyrs. They are deeply touched by the stories of our country’s freedom struggle. Taking inspiration from it, they fight against systemic corruption that has a major impact on their life. The film has powerful performances, evocative narrative, and impressive storytelling, which makes it a must-watch.
Also Checkout – Reasons Why Rang De Basanti Still Have A Special Place In Our Hearts and Always Will
3. Raajneeti (2010)
Family dynasties in politics have been a centre of debate in these elections. The tussle of power between families, complex relationships, and layered personalities make a strong theme for a film. Prakash Jha used it and made a multi-starrer, Rajneeti, on it.
It’s a high-stakes drama about a high-profile political family. The family is fragmented by greed and ambition, which explores the profound realities of Indian politics. It explores the themes of dynastic successions, illegal campaign practices, and communal disharmony. The film had a big case, who delivered power-packed performances with a compelling tale on India’s political landscape.
4. Nayak (2001)
Ordinary people usually stay away from politics. They hold the opinion that the field isn’t for them. But what happens when an ordinary man is compelled to be a Chief Minister for a day? Don’t think too hard because you can watch this whole idea unfold on screen in front of you in Anil Kapoor starrer Nayak.
Nayak follows the story of an ordinary man, played by Anil Kapoor, who becomes a Chief Minister for a day. He uses the opportunity to eliminate the state’s corrupt governance system. Also, it explores the difference between idealism and pragmatism and dreams vs reality. Nayak showcases how there are countless challenges in politics and governance and how can they be dealt with.
5. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2005)
The emergency era of 1975 is one of the darkest parts of Indian democracy. Reporters were jailed, publications were censored, opposition leaders were imprisoned, and the country adopted a unitary form of governance. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi is a film set against the backdrop of the National Emergency of 1975.
The film by Sudhir Mishra was critically appreciated as it shows how a group of students fights for their civil and democratic rights against an oppressive government. It explores the themes of freedom, justice, and betrayal.
6. Yahaan (2005)
Kashmir has been one of the significant issues in the Indian political landscape over the years. Several films have been made about this part of the country. Yahaan is one such film directed by Sooni Taraporevala. It is one of the most notable films made on the theme of insurgency-torn Kashmir of the early 2000s.
The film explores the consequences of violence and hatred on human lives and relationships. It follows the story of an elite counter-insurgency officer and his relationships, showcasing one of the most sensitive issues in Indian political history.
7. Garam Hawa (1973)
The division of India and Pakistan on religious lines has left an unforgettable mark on the country’s history and politics. MS Sathyu directed Garam Hawa is a film based on this very division. The film revolves around a North Indian Muslim family that deals with communal tensions and the choice of staying back or leaving for Pakistan after Partition.
It gives an honest insight into the political turmoil caused by the Partition. Also, it captures the long-lasting impact caused by the bloodshed event.
8. Firaaq (2008)
India is known for its diversity in religions, castes, cultures, etc. However, this diversity was often a cause of conflict, like in the 2002 Gujarat riots. Firaaq is a film by Nandita Das that follows the aftermath and impact of the trauma caused by communal violence on the human psyche.
There are several exciting storylines across communities and socio-economic classes in the film. Firaaq is a potent reminder of the harrowing impact of such religion-based violence on human society.
Final Words
These 8 thought-provoking political films from Bollywood are ideal to complement the electoral spirit within you. From dealing with complex and sensitive themes to describing critical political issues in the country, these films will substantially impact your mind. Grab that tub of popcorn and get watching – it’s time for a political movie marathon!
Also Checkout – Top 10 Movies To Watch On Independence Day
