January 2024 ushers in an array of eagerly anticipated Bollywood films, promising a rich tapestry of storytelling that ranges from high-budget spectacles to pioneering art films. This guide, specially curated for movie enthusiasts and cinephiles, delves deep into the heart of these productions, exploring their captivating plots, star-studded casts, and the unique essence that makes each of them a must-watch.
10 Must-See Bollywood Attractions in the New Year:
Fire of Love: RED | January 5
Produced by the trio of Rajeev Chaudhari, Jagannath Waghmare, and Rekha Surendra Jagtap, "Fire of Love: RED" is a labor of love by filmmaker Ashok Tyagi. The film stars Payal Ghosh, Kanchan Bhor, and Krushna Abhishek, with co-producer Shantanu Bhamare in a significant role. It tells the story of Rajveer, a renowned novelist caught in a perplexing blend of fiction and reality.
The movie`s allure is further enhanced by Hriju Roy’s melodious music and Akram Khan’s captivating cinematography, presented by Avantika Dattatray Patil under Avanti Prajakta Arts.
Tauba Tera Jalwa | January 5
Directed and penned by Akash Aditya Lama, this romantic thriller stars Ameesha Patel, Jatin Khurana, Rajesh Sharma, and Angela Krislinzki. The Altair Media production weaves a tale of romance and danger, centering on the entwined lives of Romi, a daring real estate magnate, and Rinku, a dreamer in search of fairy-tale love.
Their idyllic world is disrupted by an unexpected third person, leading to unforeseen consequences. The film`s music by Vikram Montrose and the cinematography duo of Sanjay Mehta and Shakil A. Khan add layers of depth to this gripping story.
Merry Christmas | January 12
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, "Merry Christmas" is a romantic thriller shot simultaneously in Hindi and Tamil. Starring Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif, with special appearances by Ashwini Kalsekar and Radhika Apte, the film marks the Tamil debut of Raghavan, Kaif, and music composer Pritam, while showcasing Sethupathi`s growing presence in Hindi cinema.
The story, shrouded in mystery, unfolds over a fateful Christmas Eve, transitioning from romance to a nightmare scenario. Madhu Neelakandan`s cinematography brings this enigmatic tale to life, produced by Tips Films and Matchbox Pictures.
Ruslaan | January 12
"Ruslaan," an action-packed offering from director Katyayan Shivpuri and producer KK Radhamohan under Srisathyasai Arts, features Aayush Sharma, Sushrii Mishraa, and Telugu star Jagapathi Babu.
The film`s teaser, released in April 2023, hinted at exhilarating action sequences, with Aayush Sharma in a dynamic avatar. The story by Kewal Ram Shiva and dialogues by Yunus Sajawal are visually brought to life by G. Srinivas Reddy`s cinematography.
Kalki 2898 AD | January 12
Directed by Nag Ashwin, "Kalki 2898 AD" is a sci-fi dystopian epic, emerging as a standout in Indian cinema for its ambitious scale and budget. Produced by C. Aswani Dutt of Vyjayanthi Movies, the film boasts an impressive cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, and Disha Patani.
The movie, with a budget of approximately Rs. 600 crore, is a testament to the grandeur of Indian filmmaking. Santhosh Narayanan’s music and Djordje Stojiljkovic`s cinematography elevate the film, which is set to release in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, and English.
Main Atal Hoon, Fighter, Operation AMG, Ulajh, and Vijay 69
Main Atal Hoon | January 19
Ravi Jadhav`s biographical drama "Main Atal Hoon," penned by Utkarsh Naithani, features Pankaj Tripathi in a career-defining role as former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The film, produced by Bhanushali Studios Limited and Legend Studios, unveiled its poster on Vajpayee`s 98th birthday, making a profound statement.
The musical landscape of the film is shaped by Payal Dev, Kailash Kher, Amitraj, and Salim-Sulaiman, with Monty Sharma composing the background score. Lawrence D`Cunha`s cinematography contributes to this Pen Studios presentation, offering a cinematic homage to a political legend.
Fighter | January 25
Siddharth Anand`s "Fighter," produced by Viacom18 Studios and Marflix Pictures, marks the inaugural film of a planned aerial action franchise. Starring Hrithik Roshan, Anil Kapoor, and Deepika Padukone, the film delves into the lives of elite Indian Air Force aviators, dubbed the Air Dragons.
The narrative, revolving around their camaraderie and struggles, is amplified by the collaboration with real-life Indian Air Force cadets. The music by Vishal-Shekhar and cinematography by Satchith Paulose, coupled with DNEG’s visual finesse, promise a thrilling cinematic experience.
Operation AMG | January 26
Directed by Dhruv Lather, "Operation AMG" is a survival thriller produced by Sunil Joshi and Nitu Joshi under Ebina Entertainment, with Satish Shetty as co-producer. Based on the harrowing events of the Russia-Ukraine war, the film chronicles India`s bold operation to rescue over 16,000 of its nationals. The screenplay by Sameer Arora and Prerna Dharap brings to life this intense narrative, highlighting a crucial chapter in contemporary history.
Ulajh | January 31
"Ulajh," directed by National Award winner Sudhanshu Saria, is a patriotic thriller set in the world of Indian Foreign Services. Janhvi Kapoor stars as a young IFS officer caught in a web of conspiracy, far from home. The ensemble cast includes Gulshan Devaiah, Rajesh Tailang, Roshan Mathew, Meiyang Chang, Jitendra Joshi, Rajendra Gupta, and Sachin Khedekar.
The script, co-written by Saria and Parveez Shaikh, with dialogues by Atika Chohan and cinematography by Shreya Dev Dube, is produced by Junglee Pictures.
Vijay 69 | January 31
YRF Entertainment`s "Vijay 69," a streaming exclusive by Yash Raj Films, stars veteran actor Anupam Kher. Directed and written by Akshay Roy, the biographical drama also features Narendra Jetley, Raj Sharma, and Anirban Bhattacharyya. The film, produced by Maneesh Sharma, follows Kher`s character as he embarks on a triathlon challenge at 69, with Sahil Bhardwaj`s cinematography capturing this inspiring journey.
In Summary
January 2024`s Bollywood lineup is a testament to the dynamic and diverse landscape of Indian cinema. From the epic scale of "Kalki 2898 AD" and the high-flying action of "Fighter" to the compelling biopics like "Main Atal Hoon" and "Vijay 69," each film is a window into the rich tapestry of stories that Bollywood has to offer.
This cinematic celebration is just the beginning of what promises to be a year filled with unforgettable experiences for movie lovers worldwide, highlighting the vital role of Bollywood in global cinema.
