The year 2015 wasn’t just about phenomenal performances and great films. It was a year that gave movie buffs multiple reasons to rejoice as conventional topics and done-to-death formulas took a backseat. While the eventful 2015 saw its share of disappointments, it did surprise many as successful films didn’t only stick to big production houses. There were several small budget and independent films which were impressive in their own niche ways. In the third edition of IBNLive Movie Awards, we select nominees in various popular categories and allow our readers decide the outcome. Take our poll to vote and choose Best Film of 2015.
Bajirao Mastani: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Bajirao Mastani’ was a love tale of Maratha warrior and Rajput-Muslim princess. While the film wasn’t completely flawless, it managed to find several takers. Call it Deepika’s charm or Ranveer’s stellar performance, the film worked despite an uninspiring storytelling. The film not only won viewers’ support but also many awards. The one thing that remained with every viewer – besides the beautifully shot songs and incredible background music – was director Sanjay Leela Bhansali leaving an impact without putting in too much effort.
Piku: Many called it one of the most amazing and surprising hit of 2015. With Amitabh Bachchan playing a man who is fixated with his bowel movement, Deepika Padukone as an often stressed daughter, and Irrfan Khan as the perfect driver (almost), the film had just about everything to keep the viewers entertained. And why not if it is directed by Shoojit Sircar!
Masaan: Debutant director Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Masaan’ was classic in its own way. With a story that revolved around the burning ghats of Varanasi, the film promised to offer something different and striking to the viewers. Even as it declared the advent of fresh talents - writer and director, it showed what effective storytelling is all about.
‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’: For some it was the treatment of its core issue that made ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’ a delightful watch, but for others its well-etched characters, incredible cinematography, and impressive production design and fine performances by Ayushmann Khurrana, Bhumi Pednekar and the entire case that weaved the magic. All in all, it was a delightful film that one didn’t want to miss.
Margarita with a Straw: If there has ever been a film that could give the viewers an honest and unbiased representation of disability in Indian cinema, it has to be ‘Margarita with a Straw’ which featured Kalki Koechlin as a 19-year-old with cerebral palsy. If Kalki’s balanced performance humanized Laila, co-writer and director Shonali Bose put forth the story with amazing pride and grace.
Qissa: Directed and co-written by Anup Singh, ‘Qissa’ was an unforgettable story of a girl who grows up as a boy. The film revolved around Sikh villager Umber Singh (Irrfan Khan), who in the desperation of having a son decided to bring up his fourth daughter as a boy. Gender confusion and its dire consequences along with incredible performances by Irrfan Khan and Tilottama Shome made the film a must watch.
Angry Indian Goddesses: It is never easy for a director to use clichés and yet make a film which is boring and old-fashioned. Director Pan Nalin’s style of filmmaking proved it. His film ‘Angry Indian Goddesses’ had multiple stereotypes, but this film, which was referred to as ‘India’s first female buddy movie’ was very refreshing. In addition to natural performances by the cast, the director’s ability to use humor and pity even as it put forth relevant questions was impressive.
Tanu Weds Manu Returns: There are very few films for which you don’t mind ignoring the errors and readily give in to the appeal. Tanu Weds Manu Returns, directed by Anand L Rai was a winner in every sense of the term. The mismatched protagonists – Kangana Ranaut and R Madhavan – made it a lot more enjoyable than its prequel.
Talvar: Doing justice to a real-life crime in a film is a mammoth task. Director Meghna Gulzar’s ‘Talvar’ based on Aarushi Talwar-Hemraj murder case recounted multiple versions of the murder and the investigation from conflicting perspectives. Sans too much focus on sentiments and melodrama, it was shot in a docudrama style and emphasized the defective legal system, a hypercritical society, and an edgy media.
Badlapur: Much like any successful revenge thriller, Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Badlapur’ was unpredictable, gripping and a must-watch for all its twists and turns. The film, as it brought to the fore the frightening battle of wits between protagonist and villain also extracted the best performances from
Varun Dhawan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Crisp narrative, best lines, and an unconventional plot made it so watchable.
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