Anurag Kashyap, a name synonymous with gritty and unconventional cinema, has carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry. From his early days as a writer to establishing himself as a director with a distinct vision, his work has been as compelling as the movies he creates. DevD recently completed 15 years, making the director’s work the talk of the town so far.
So, let’s dive into the cinematic world of Anurag Kashyap and explore some of his must-watch films that are now cult classics.
Gangs of Wasseypur Part 1 & 2(2012)
Whenever someone mentions the name Gangs of Wasseypur, Anurag Kashyap’s name synonymously pops up. This magnum opus is divided into two parts. The cult classic explores the coal mafia of Dhanbad. Moreover, the film offers a riveting narrative of crime families vying for power. Gangs of Wasseypur 1 & 2 are currently available to stream on Netflix.
Bombay Velvet (2015)
Set in the quest for success and love in Bombay, this crime drama stars Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma. The film, unfortunately, didn’t do well at the box office but is a visual treat available on Hotstar. Additionally, the film portrays Kashyap’s attempt to navigate the intricacies of ambition and betrayal in a city that never sleeps.
DevD
DevD is Anurag Kashyap’s contemporary take on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s classic Bengali novel. After all, giving a modern twist to the timeless story of Dev, Paro, and Chandramukhi. Released in 2009, this film recently marked its 15th anniversary in 2024. One of the film’s songs, “Emosanal Attyachar,” has also labeled itself as iconic and is part of every Gen-Z’s playlist.
Manmarziyaan (2018)
Manmarziyaan, a 2018 romantic drama featuring Taapsee Pannu, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vicky Kaushal, adds another layer to Anurag Kashyap’s repertoire. The film received polarized reactions upon its release, offering a modernized narrative set in the heart of Amritsar. Taapsee’s portrayal of Rumi, a sexually liberated woman torn between two men, adds depth to Kashyap’s exploration of love and lust.
That Girl In Yellow Boots (2010)
Kalki Koechlin takes center stage in That Girl In Yellow Boots, a thriller where she portrays a British woman searching for her father in India. The film on Netflix showcases Kashyap’s prowess in distinct storytelling, blending suspense with the protagonist’s journey to uncover her identity.
Bombay Talkies (2013)
In Bombay Talkies, Kashyap collaborates with other directors to create an anthology addressing social issues, including homosexuality. It is currently streaming on Netflix, commemorating a hundred years of Hindi cinema.
Lust Stories (2018)
One of the popular ones, in Lust Stories, Anurag Kashyap contributes to an anthology exploring women’s sexual desires and needs. In addition, the film is a Netflix original, weaving together four segments depicting different age groups and situations. On the whole, this adds another dimension to Kashyap’s diverse filmography.
Black Friday (2004)
Lastly, Anurag Kashyap’s directorial debut, Black Friday, is a gripping crime film based on Hussain Zaidi’s book. Chronicling the events leading to the Bombay bomb blasts, the movie unveils the police investigation that ensued. Moreover, due to its legal battle, the film has marked itself as a noteworthy piece in Kashyap’s filmography.
In conclusion, whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, modern adaptations, or anthology films, Kashyap’s work offers a cinematic experience that transcends conventional boundaries.