Are you a fan of visually appealing films and grandeur? If so, you must watch the Films by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. He is one of the few Indian filmmakers who has expertise in every aspect of filmmaking. From music, visuals and performances to Storytelling, music, and backdrops he aces it all. His films are a visual treat with grand sets, exemplary lighting, heavy and detailed costumes combined with big dance sequences.
Apart from entertaining and serious films, Hindi film industry has always been popular for making grand films. The iconic Mughal-e-Azam (1960) was an example of it. However, this trend was declining until SLB stepped in. As a filmmaker, he has kept the legacy or authenticity and magnificence alive in Bollywood till date.
If you are an admirer of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, you must-watch these five films by Sanjay Leela Bhansali-
1. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)
What happens when someone loves one person and is forced to marry another? If you are interested to know about it then you must watch Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. It is a romantic musical film that took the box office by storm. The film was based on Rashtriyashayar Jhaverchand Meghani’s play “Shetal ne Kathe”.
The story explores the life of Nadini who falls in love with Sameer. But, her family forces her to marry Vanraj who is unknown about her past. Situations change in their lives when Vantaj comes to know about this and decides to reunite his wife and former lover.
The film stars Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the lead roles. It was shot across different locations including Budapest, Hungary, Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was praised for its storyline, performances and music.
2. Devdas (2003)
Devdas is a romantic period drama based on the 1918 novel of the same name. A film at the same time was made in Bollywood several years back. Its plot explores the class divide, zamindari culture and insights of Bengal under the British.
The story is based around the character of Devdas Mukherjee. He a rich law graduate who returns from London and wants to marry his childhood friend, Parvati “Paro” (Rai). But his family does not support it due to the class dive. So, he dips into alcoholism and is emotionally shattered taking refuge at a courtesan Chandramukhi (Dixit).
It gathered parises for its set design, visuals, costumes, performances and direction. Further, the songs and dance sequences of Devdas were loved by the audiences. Made on a big budget, it emerged as one of the highest grossing films of that year.
3. Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram Leela (2013)
If you want to watch an intense romantic film you must go for Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram Leela. It explores the life of Ram and Leela who love each other. But, cannot come together as their families have a 500 year old rivalry. They try to make the ends meet in various attempts but this ends with their sacrifice.
It is loosely based around the Novel Romeo Juliet, which turned out to be a big box office success. The film skyrocketed the career growth of both Deepika and Ranveer. Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram Leela received parise for its direction, performances and music that topped the charts. Further, the big colourful sets and heavy costumes with intricate designs became a major trend among the people.
4. Bajirao Mastani (2015)
Since Sanjay Leela Bhansali specialises in making grand romantic films, the historical plot of Bajirao Mastani was perfect for him. He wanted to make this film for a long time, but he could not find an ideal cast. After the success of Ram Leela, he repeated its lead cast making this film.
It is the story of heroic Peshwa Bajirao, married to Kashibai. But, he falls in love with Mastani, a warrior princess in trouble. However, they have to face conflict from his family.
It is a romantic yet tragic story. The film had a high production cost that included the creation of twenty-two highly detailed sets. In addition, numerous costumes and expensive props were prepared for the film to reflect opulence.
5. Padmaavat (2018)
Padmaavat was based on the story of Rajput Queen Padmavati. Before the release of the film, there were many protests by several religious groups who claimed that the film included misleading historical facts.
The plot is based on the story of Queen Padmavati who is happily married to a Rajput ruler. However, a ruthless ruler Alauddin Khalji is obsessed after listening to her. So, he declares war on their kingdom when the Queen makes the ultimate sacrifice.
Summing Up,
Every director is a visual storyteller and Sanjay Leela Bhansali has clearly nailed this business. He spends a considerable time in making every film and works in every aspect of filmmaking himself from music to set design and costumes. His hard work reflects in his success that has made kept fans waiting to watch his next release.
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