Re-releases are creating quite a buzz lately, with films like “Tumbbad,” “Rockstar,” “Jab We Met,” and “Laila Majnu.” These movies are finally getting the grand welcome they deserve, celebrating their dramatic achievements. Likewise, many OTT releases are now gaining recognition as viewers realize some films were underrated. For instance, movies like Siddharth Malhotra’s “Shershaah” and Kriti Sanon’s “Mimi” stood out with exceptional filmmaking. Thus, in honor of these hidden gems, we’ve rounded up 10 Indian films that deserved theatrical release. Despite their brilliance, these films remained overlooked on OTT platforms.
Gaslight (2023)
“Gaslight,” a 2023 Hindi mystery-thriller, directed by Pavan Kirpalani and produced by Ramesh Taurani and Akshai Puri, is the first on our list. Starring Vikrant Massey, Sara Ali Khan, and Chitrangada Singh, the movie was released on Disney+ Hotstar on March 31, 2023. It follows Meesha Gaikwad’s return to her family’s palace, where she must confront unsettling family dynamics and her father’s mysterious absence.
Mimi (2021)
Secondly, we have “Mimi.” A heartwarming roller-coaster drama in which, Kriti Sanon plays a stage dancer who agrees to be a surrogate for an American couple. But, after successfully becoming pregnant, she hides from the couple and fabricates a story about eloping with a man named Bhanu. Later, when the couple demands an abortion upon learning the baby might have Down syndrome, Mimi refuses. However, later Mimi gives birth to a healthy boy. And, four years later, the couple returns, intending to claim the child. However, they decide to adopt another orphan instead after witnessing Mimi’s deep bond with her son.
Patna Shukla (2024)
Next in line, we have Raveena Tandon as lawyer Tanvi Shukla in a courtroom drama. Truly, “Patna Shukla” deserved a theatrical release, as it exposes the ‘roll number’ scams prevalent in small towns and cities. Initially, Shukla, despite signing affidavits, lacks recognition until she bravely takes on a student’s case, who unfairly fails an exam. Eventually, she uncovers a scam where wealthy, well-connected students pay to change their marks by swapping roll numbers with high-performing students. Determined to bring justice, Shukla must ultimately confront the powerful people who stand in her way.
To Kill a Tiger (2022)
To Kill a Tiger is a gut-wrenching, Oscar-nominated documentary, directed by Nisha Pahuja, compellingly portrays the story of a courageous family’s battle for justice. It follows Ranjit, an Indian farmer, who bravely fights for justice for his 13-year-old daughter, a victim of brutal gang rape. Given today’s climate, where rape cases dominate headlines and hashtags trend, we urgently need more grand releases like this to inspire widespread action against such grievous injustices toward women.
Also Read: Top 10 Scariest Indian Horror Movies You Can’t Miss
Sardar Udham (2021)
Moving on, it is undeniable that the exemplary non-linear narrative of “Sardar Udham” deserved theatrical release. The narrative shifts between Sardar Udham Singh’s (Vickey Kaushal) time in London and his past with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). Further, it explores his motives for assassinating Indian Civil Service officer Michael O’Dwyer. Naturally, the story follows Udham’s imprisonment in Punjab, his escape to London, and his journey towards the assassination. And, reflects that despite his trial and imprisonment, Udham remains committed to the Indian freedom movement.
Soorarai Pottru (2020)
Next up, there’s Nedumaaran “Maara,” a former Indian Air Force Pilot, who dreams of starting a low-cost airline. Eventually, he marries Bommi, who supports his ambition. However, Maara faces numerous obstacles from Paresh Goswami, the owner of Jaz Airlines. Despite these setbacks and sabotage attempts, Maara persists. He finally launched Deccan Air, winning over the public with affordable flights. In the end, Deccan Air succeeds, and Paresh concedes defeat, ultimately recognizing Maara’s vision for accessible air travel. And the sky-high dreams and resilience of Maara in “Soorarai Pottru” deserved theatrical release.
Maharaj (2024)
Karsan Das a progressive thinker in pre-independence Bombay, faces a moral dilemma when he discovers his fiancée Kishori’s involvement in the exploitative practice of “Charan seva” with the self-styled godman JJ. Consequently, Karsan ends their engagement and is ostracized by his devout family. And further, determined to reveal JJ’s true nature, Karsan starts a newspaper. However, he encounters resistance and threats, including the destruction of his press. Despite these setbacks, and with the support of Viraaj and other allies, Karsan exposes JJ’s crimes. Ultimately, JJ faces downfall, while Karsan gains recognition as a social reformer. The tragic, melancholic resilience of the movie definitely makes it one of those Indian films that deserved theatrical release.
Minnal Murali (2021)
Next in line, we have, Jaison, a young tailor from Kurukkanmoola, who dreams of moving to the US, In the 1990s. However, obstacles, including his relationship with Bincy, block his plans. But, there is a miracle waiting for Jaison. One day after lightning strikes, Jaison gains superpowers and becomes Minnal Murali. Shibu, an outcast, also gains powers and terrorizes the village. But, Jaison ultimately defeats Shibu, earning the villagers’ gratitude and vowing to protect them from future threats. There’s no question that this blazing filmmaking and cinematography of “Minnal Murali” deserved theatrical release.
Gunjan Saxena (2020)
Next in line is “Gunjan Saxena.” In Lucknow, 1984, young Gunjan Saxena’s dream to become a pilot ignites after a cockpit visit. Despite her brother’s opposition and numerous obstacles, including medical disqualifications, she perseveres with her father’s support. During harsh Air Force training, she contends with gender bias. Yet, amidst the Kargil war, she defies expectations by leading a risky rescue mission, earning respect from her peers, and making her family immensely proud.
Shershaah (2021)
Saving the best for the last, we have a TED Talk. Vishal Batra shares his brother Vikram’s inspiring story. Vikram, known for his fearless nature, transitions from cricket to a military career despite personal challenges. His relationship with Dimple, his girlfriend, faces hurdles due to caste differences and her father’s disapproval. Regardless, Vikram ultimately chooses the Indian Army over the Merchant Navy, serving in counter-insurgency operations. During the Kargil War, he led his unit to capture Point 4875 but, unfortunately, Vikram was martyred in battle. Dimple remains heartbroken at his funeral. Vikram is posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his exceptional bravery and sacrifice. The heroic cinematography of “Shershaah” deserved theatrical release.
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap on our list of Indian films that deserved theatrical release! Whether it’s the captivating cinematography, exceptional filmmaking, remarkable storytelling, or stellar performances, these gems truly shone brightly. Despite the overshadowing presence of OTT platforms, they stood out and captivated audiences.
