On Alia Bhatt’s birthday, her unconventional films that challenged social taboos | bollywood

Alia Bhatt is among the most successful actors in Indian cinema. Apart from working in Hindi films, she has now also made her mark in regional and international films. Alia made her Bollywood debut with the commercial romantic comedy Student of the Year directed by Karan Johar. But unlike most newcomers who shy away from telling experimental stories, the Jigra actor never shied away from taking on non-conformist characters. His films paved the way for many actors and filmmakers to work on innovative themes and genres. A look at some of Alia’s best works that sparked a new wave of cinema in India.

Road

Highway is one of the most unique and emotional stories from Imtiaz Ali, who has mastered the art of emotional slice-of-life narratives. Co-written by Imtiaz and Irshad Kamil, Highway featured the most adorable on-screen couple of Alia and Randeep Hooda. The unspoken, serene yet passionate and intense romance between Alia and Randeep was heartwarming. The relationship between a rebellious privileged girl kidnapped in Delhi and her kidnapper has been portrayed with utmost realism and sincerity. However, the USP of the film is the way Imtiaz has sensitively tackled the issue of child abuse. Alia’s ability to convey childhood trauma and pain demonstrated her acting prowess. Highway is a must-see for film students.

Udta Punjab

Alia once again took the biggest risk of her film career with Abhishek Chaubey’s Udta Punjab. Apart from CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) issues for showing the drug menace in Punjab, the film also faced criticism from political groups. However, the most surprising aspect of the social crime drama is that Alia essays the role of a Bihari migrant worker. The actor plays Bauria, also known as Mary Jane, who falls into the trap of drug dealers. Her portrayal of a sexual abuse survivor fighting oppression is a key element of the script. From her accent to an aggressive monologue with Shahid Kapoor, she hits the mark with her artistry.

Dear Zindagi

Gauri Shinde’s light-hearted film on relationships is one of the most relevant stories about millennials and Generation Z. Apart from relationships, social judgments and ambition, Dear Zindagi also highlights issues like insomnia and awareness about Mental health. Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan once again tackle an important topic in the coming-of-age drama. More than the characters, it is the performances and storytelling that contribute to the engagement quotient. Alia gives a moving performance as an emotionally confused Kaira, who finally achieves closure in her life.

raazi

Co-written by Meghna Gulzar and Bhavani Iyer, Raazi is based on the novel Calling Sehmat by Harinder Sikka. Alia essays the role of Sehmat Syed, a Delhi University student who ends up becoming an R&AW agent. Sehmat is trained by Indian intelligence officials to spy in Pakistan amidst the ongoing tensions between the nations in 1971. Meghna Gulzar’s direction does not romanticize the life of spies, rather it shows the gray area of ​​espionage jobs. Unlike Angelina Jolie’s top agents, Alia humanizes the spies in her portrayal of Sehmat. The film has elements of patriotism and love for the country, but also gives enough space to the human angle.

Gangubai Kathiawadi

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for his meticulous details with grand sets and costume designs while filming period dramas. Gangubai Kathiawadi, set in the era of 1950s and 1960s, showcases the plight of sex workers in the most aesthetically moving manner. Alia once again gives a stellar performance as the lead. Her moving depiction engages the audience with a story of human plight and courage.

Dear ones

Alia gave her best by debuting as a producer with a story based on domestic violence. Her portrayal of a survivor of marital violence in the black comedy thriller is the USP of the film. The actor tried an uncomfortable topic that took the public’s pulse.