Newton (2017)
This black comedy-drama stars Rajkummar Rao as Newton Kumar, a principled government clerk sent to a conflict-ridden jungle in Central India to conduct elections. Despite the apathy of security forces and the threat of guerrilla attacks, Newton is determined
to ensure a free and fair vote. The film is a brilliant political satire, using humour to shed light on the complexities and ironies of Indian democracy. It masterfully balances being a witty, sharp comedy with a poignant commentary on the state of affairs in remote India. 'Newton' won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. It is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Ankhon Dekhi (2014)
What if you decided to believe only what you see with your own eyes? That's the premise of this philosophical and deeply moving film. Sanjay Mishra delivers a career-defining performance as Bauji, a man in his late fifties living in Old Delhi who, after a particular incident, makes a vow to only trust his direct, personal experience. This seemingly simple decision leads to a series of comical, absurd, and ultimately profound situations that challenge his family and society. The film is a beautiful exploration of perception, belief, and truth. 'Ankhon Dekhi' received the National Film Award for Best Hindi Film and is currently available on Amazon Prime Video and JioHotstar.
Masaan (2015)
Set in the city of Varanasi along the Ganges River, 'Masaan' (which translates to 'crematorium') weaves together two parallel stories. One follows Devi (Richa Chadha), a young woman caught in a compromising situation, and the other follows Deepak (Vicky Kaushal), a man from a low-caste community who falls in love with an upper-caste girl. The film is a powerful and heart-wrenching look at loss, grief, and the oppressive nature of caste and societal morality in modern India. It's a poignant and beautifully shot film that stays with you long after the credits roll. It received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival and won several awards. You can watch this cinematic gem on JioHotstar.
Ship of Theseus (2012)
This is not just a film; it's a profound philosophical conversation. Written and directed by Anand Gandhi, the movie connects three seemingly separate stories: an experimental photographer who receives a cornea transplant, an ailing monk protesting animal testing, and a stockbroker who learns about a kidney theft racket. The film is named after the ancient paradox that questions whether an object that has had all its components replaced remains fundamentally the same object. It's a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating film that explores complex questions about identity, justice, and the meaning of life. It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film and can be rented or bought on the Apple TV Store.
Court (2014)
Chaitanya Tamhane's directorial debut is a quiet but devastating critique of the Indian judicial system. The film follows the trial of an ageing folk singer who is arrested and accused of inciting a sewage worker's suicide through one of his protest songs. What unfolds is a masterclass in realism, depicting the absurd, often mundane, and painfully slow proceedings of a lower court in Mumbai. 'Court' avoids melodrama, instead using a fly-on-the-wall perspective to expose the systemic flaws and human apathy within the legal process. It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film and is a must-watch for its stark and unflinching portrayal of justice. It can be found on Apple TV.
