10. Shanghai (2012)
In 2012, Dibakar Banerjee delivered a taut political thriller that made for essential watching. This was at a time when there was an undeniable political crisis throughout the country. In 2018, or rather, at any point of time when there will exist such a crisis of humanity with rampant exploitation and injustice, this thought-provoking film shall remain very much relevant.
With assured performances by Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin, and a refreshing departure for Emraan Hashmi, ‘Shanghai’, adapted from ‘Z’ by Vassilis Vassilikos, is Banerjee’s attack against the issues that plague India, time and time again. It is impactful Hindi cinema with a strong message that is conveyed with substantial success.
9. English Vinglish (2012)
In his memoir ‘Born A Crime’, comedian Trevor Noah wrote how language is the greatest identifier known to humans, even in the presence of other overwhelmingly prominent factors, such as race. The intricacies of language are heartwarmingly explored in this delightful film. This was Gauri Shinde’s directorial debut and marked the much awaited comeback of Bollywood diva Sridevi.
This was backed by earnest performances from an international cast led by Adil Hussain. Sridevi’s turn as the unsure but confident Shashi who takes up a formidable challenge when she isn’t given the respect she deserves, infuses warmth and exuberance in this movie.
8. Vicky Donor (2012)
‘Vicky Donor’ is the Hindi movie with arguably the most unconventional premise on this list. It deals with taboo issues of sperm donation and infertility. It also deals with intercaste marriage and breaking gender stereotypes.
Shoojit Sircar presents a heartfelt narrative that revels in comedic timing from Ayushmann Khurrana and Annu Kapoor. There is a measured performance from Yami Gautam in her Hindi movie debut as well. ‘Vicky Donor’ proved to be the sleeper hit of the year with good reason. This was due to its themes presented thoughtfully and balanced sensitively.
7. Chittagong (2012)
Few directorial debuts have been as masterful as Bedabrata Pain’s Hindi movie about the 1930 Chittagong Uprising. His narrative technique of flashbacks interspersed with Jhunku’s (Delzad Hiwale) poignant narration is tellingly different. It presents the brutal and stirring events of the eponymous uprising with uncomfortable accuracy and an unabashed and necessary patriotism.
Manoj Bajpayee as Masterda Surya Sen supported by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Rajkummar Rao among others lend serious performative calibre to the expertly woven real narrative.
6. OMG- Oh My God! (2012)
India houses people of many faiths and beliefs.Religion, therefore, has a monumental significance to all. It doesn’t matter what their personal level of involvement is. Directed by Umesh Shukla, ‘OMG’ is a biting satire against the exploitation and commercialisation of religion. The Hindi film questions the true purpose of faith in human lives.
It has a commanding lead in Paresh Rawal and an impish extended appearance from Akshay Kumar. ‘OMG’ does justice to its serious themes and proves itself to be an essential watch in every respect.
Read More: Bollywood Movies 2010
