Exploring Films Beyond Hindi and English: A Curator’s Pick

Introduction

The world of cinema is rich and diverse, offering a treasure trove of films across various languages. While Hindi and English films are popular choices, there is an abundance of cinematic brilliance waiting to be discovered in other languages. In this article, we will explore some must-watch films in languages apart from Hindi and English. From Tamil and Malayalam to Bengali and French, there is a wide variety to choose from. Get ready to enrich your cinematic experience with these picks!

Malayalam Movies

Why Malayalam?

Being a resident of Kerala, I am well-acquainted with the language and culture, making Malayalam movies a natural choice for me. Malayalam cinema has a wealth of quality films that not only capture local culture but also resonate with a broad audience. Here are some highly-recommended Malayalam movies:

Cid Moosa (2011) – A gripping legal drama that delves into the complexities of Indian justice. Drishyam (2015) – A suspenseful thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Pulimurugan (2018) – An intense crime drama that portrays the life of an underworld don.

More Malayalam Gems

While some Malayalam movies are set in local contexts, they often transcend their environments to touch universal themes. Here are some more highly-rated and enjoyable Malayalam films:

Asuran (2017) – An epic period drama that reimagines a historical tale. Shrimad Dharma Charitra (2022) – A film based on the life of a 12th-century warrior saint that combines spirituality and history.

Tamil and Telugu Cinema

Tamil Movies

Tamil cinema has produced several internationally well-received films that have a broad appeal. Here are some top-rated Tamil movies that you should not miss:

Enthiran (2010) – A science fiction film that blends humor with action. 24 (2014) – A thrilling action film that draws inspiration from the 2001 American series.

Telugu Cinema

Telugu cinema has been gaining immense popularity, especially with the success of the Baahubali series. Some high-quality Telugu movies that have been dubbed into Tamil or Malayalam include:

Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) – A period drama that is filled with adventure and romance. Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017) – The sequel to the blockbuster that continues the epic saga. Duvvada Jaganadham (2016) – A historical drama based on the life of a saint that features a stellar cast.

Old Odia and Bengali Cinema

Deep-Rooted Family Values

Odia cinema, despite its climactic nature, has films that portray profound and mature themes. The old Odia movies had a strong focus on family values and social issues. Here are some must-watch Old Odia movies:

Raja Rani (1974) – A period drama that explores the relationships between a king and his subjects. Palimara Charitra (1979) – A biographical film that tells the life story of a King who ruled over the Jagannath Temple.

Bengali Cinema

Bengali cinema is known for its deep emotional storytelling and social relevance. Movies by directors like Satyajit Ray and Anurag Basu often resonate with modern audiences despite being set in earlier times. Here are some highly-regarded Bengali films:

Bela Seshe Porjon (2004) – A film that captures the essence of Bengali culture and family values. Aati Aalo (2023) – A romantic comedy that offers a light-hearted take on life and love.

International Cinema

Korean and Israeli Films

International films offer a new perspective on storytelling, with themes that are both mature and relevant. Here are some notable films from different countries:

The Chaser (2008) – Korean – A crime thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of Seoul. Waltz with Bashir (2008) – Israeli – An animated documentary that explores the psychological trauma of war.

Other Noteworthy Films

There are many more films to explore in other languages, each with its unique story and style. Here are a few more:

Times Crimes (2017) – A Spanish thriller that portrays the lives of two men facing unforeseen circumstances. Secret in Their Eyes (2009) – Argentine – A compelling legal drama that unfolds the story of a detective who persuades a woman to tell him a secret. Let the Right One In (2008) – Swedish – A dark fantasy that explores the complexities of human relationships. Mumbai Police (2015) – Malayalam – A gripping portrayal of the lives of police officers in Mumbai. Children of Heaven (1997) – Persian – A heartwarming story about the struggles of two brothers in Iran. Memories of Murder (2003) – Korean – A crime drama that explores the true story of a murder during the 1980s. A Prophet (2009) – French – A historically rooted drama that explores a young man’s journey in the remand center. 3 Idiots (2009) – Hindi – A comedy-drama that challenges the conventional educational system.

Conclusion

The world of cinema is vast and full of diverse narratives. Whether you are a fan of South Indian movies or appreciate the deep emotional storytelling of Bengali cinema, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the gripping legal dramas of Malaysia to the picturesque French films, each language offers a unique cinematic experience. So, let’s embrace the diversity of language and culture through these films and continue to explore this wonderful world of storytelling.