AS 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to assess why most Bollywood releases this year failed miserably and explore the reasons behind the poor quality of films.
In recent years, the industry has seen such a steep decline that this might be the worst era for Hindi cinema in terms of quality. A key answer lies within the compelling threepart documentary Angry Young Men, streaming on Amazon Prime since August.
The documentary chronicles the journey of legendary writing duo Salim-Javed, from their modest beginnings to their transformation of Hindi cinema with game-changing films. Their work not only helped Amitabh Bachchan rise to become Bollywood’s greatest star but also introduced new genres, crafted stars, and influenced generations of filmmakers.
The series features insights from Bollywood icons such as Jaya Bachchan, Salman Khan, Karan Johar, Aamir Khan, and Rajkumar Hirani. It reveals how Salim-Javed’s scripts for films like Zanjeer, Deewaar, Sholay, Trishul, and Don became the foundation for blockbuster success.
Amitabh Bachchan in DeewaarThe documentary underscores the critical role of writing in filmmaking. Salim-Javed’s influence was so profound that they earned more than lead actors – an unprecedented and unmatched feat in Bollywood. The golden era of the 1950s also placed similar emphasis on good writing, and although Salim-Javed were inspired by global sources, they skillfully adapted stories to resonate with Indian audiences.
However, instead of building on this legacy, today’s Hindi film industry has marginalised writers, a theme explored in the documentary’s final segment. It highlights how current writers are poorly compensated and undervalued, despite the fact that a film’s soul lies in its screenplay. Filmmaker Dibakar Banerjee remarks that many talented writers, unable to sustain themselves, turn to directing – resulting in a loss of strong writing talent and, often, mediocre direction.
Salim Khan and Javed AkhtarAamir Khan, in the documentary, argues that today’s writers don’t deserve to earn more than lead actors, as none have reached Salim-Javed’s stature. However, this argument misses the point entirely. The industry needs to shift its focus and start paying talented writers what they deserve, rather than prioritising elements like costumes, locations, and music. Strong writing can elevate a film beyond the need for extravagant trappings, whereas even the best production elements cannot rescue a poorly written story – a fact demonstrated by the string of high-profile flops Bollywood has seen recently.
If producers, powerful stars, and filmmakers recognise how important good writing is, Hindi cinema has a chance at revival. A good starting point would be to watch Angry Young Men and reflect on the enduring legacy of Salim Khan, Javed Akhtar, and other brilliant writers from Bollywood’s golden era.
Addressing issues like nepotism and restoring the value of storytelling could mark the first step toward much-needed recovery for an industry struggling to regain its footing.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.