Explore every episode of the podcast Love of Cinema
Dive into the complete episode list for Love of Cinema. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
The second part of my conversation with Aditya Sarpotdar where we talked about his favorite films and shows, his A R Rahman fandom (including an anecdote which he has never shared publicly until now), and much more!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Aditya Sarpotdar is here! His horror comedy Munjya is one of the biggest hits of 2024 and his next film Vampires of Vijay Nagar is one of the most eagerly anticipated films of 2025. Before making his Hindi debut with Munjya, Aditya made some of the more interesting and refreshing Marathi cinema of recent years, including Narbachi Wadi, Faster Fene, Unaad and the insanely hilarious zombie comedy, Zombivli.
Aditya and I chopped it up for almost 4 hours. This is the first part of our super long chat on his movies, his fav movies, Marathi cinema and much more. Join us!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 59: Thoovanathumbikal (1987) - with Bejoy Nambiar
Bejoy Nambiar (Shaitan, David, Solo, Taish) joins us for a deep dive of one of his all-time favorites, Padmarajan's Thoovanathumbikal. We talked about the complex characterizations, Mohanlal's terrific performance, Sumalatha's fascinating Clara and Johnson's timeless background score. Bejoy also shared a conversation he had with his mentor Mani Ratnam around the Padmarajan classic.
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Hansal Mehta joins us for a chat on two of his early films, Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar and Chhal. One's a black comedy about end of innocence. The other's a sharp action drama centered around betrayal. Both films had compelling story lines, terrific cast, great music and both attempted something new in their technique. Two films I wish more people would watch. Why? I make my case on the episode. Join us!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 57: Rangeela (1995) - with Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul
Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, who co-created Scoop and wrote Thappad, joins me for a deep dive of one of her favorite films, Rangeela! We talked about Rangeela's charming old-school writing, the strong lead female character, women in RGV's films, Aamir Khan's method performance, Rahman's generational soundtrack, Ahmed Khan's tremendous choreography and much more. Join us!
If you like the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Fanboy moment! On the eve of Satya's 25th anniversary, a 2-hour-long chat with RGV on everything from Shiva and Raat, to Satya and Company, to Sarkar and Bhoot, to Nishabd and Mast. Unfiltered and unabashed as always, RGV shared some cool insights, stories and anecdotes. Join us!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Vikram Bhatt's Ghulam, a key 90s film and one of Aamir Khan's most popular film, turns 25 this year. Vikram joins me for a wide-ranging chat on Ghulam, music in his films, Raaz and the horror genre, his early days assisting Mukul Anand and Mahesh Bhatt, his streaming platform, and an interesting round of Shoot, a game of rapid-fire questions. Join us!
If you like the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 54: Zanjeer (1973) - with Diptakirti Chaudhuri
Amitabh Bachchan's breakout film was Zanjeer (1973). The film not only proved to be the breakout vehicle for India's biggest superstar and cultural icon, but it also ushered in the Bachchan-Salim-Javed era and the trend of action dramas. Diptakirti Chaudhuri, a lifelong Hindi cinema enthusiast and the author of seven books on Hindi cinema, including one on Salim-Javed, joins me as we celebrate Zanjeer, which turns 50 this month. Join us!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 53: Jubilee - with Atul Sabharwal and Vikramaditya Motwane
I really enjoyed the new period drama Jubilee, set in the 40s and 50s, and centered on the aspiration and ambition of a group of people from the world of Hindi cinema. I got a chance to pick the brains of writer Atul Sabharwal (Powder, Aurangzeb, Class of 83) and director/showrunner Vikramaditya Motwane (Udaan, Lootera, Trapped) on the scripting and the making of the show. We talked about everything from the research, casting and lighting of the show to the music and the exquisite closing seven minutes of the final episode. All things Jubilee, join us!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 52: Tashan (2008) - with Vijay Krishna Acharya
Tashan (2008) turns 15 this year. Writer-director Vijay Krishna Acharya joins me as we look back on the YRF film that tried to break new ground and tried to do it in style. We chatted about writing the film, the terrific soundtrack, the nods, the action, and its reception. An hour on Tashan with 'the' Vijay Krishan Acharya. Join us!
If you like the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 51: Imtiaz Ali's Socha Na Tha (2005) - with Kanika Katyal
Imtiaz Ali's exploration of romance and relationships stands out among his peers. Kanika Katyal, a freelance culture writer and Imtiaz Ali superfan joins me as we try to deconstruct the filmmaker's storytelling, focussing on his debut film, Socha Na Tha (2005). Join us!
Now, you can support the Love of Cinema podcast on a monthly basis. If you like the podcast, please do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 50: Agneepath (1990) - with Amborish Roychoudhury
National Film Award-winning author Amborish Roychoudhury joins me for a deep dive of one of my favorite films produced by Dharma Productions, Agneepath (1990). Directed by Mukul Anand, Agneepath was ahead of its time and was never fully appreciated. This episode is our small attempt to resurrect and present a solid action drama, as well as an important film of the gangster genre, in new light. Join us!
Now you can support the Love of Cinema podcast on a monthly basis and help us continue making content for fans of Indian cinema, that goes beyond banter and trending films. If you like the podcast, please do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Amborish's award-winning book, In the Cult of Their Own: Bollywood Beyond Box Office: https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Their-Own-Bollywood-Beyond/dp/8129151359
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 67: Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) - with Vanita Kohli-Khandekar
Zoya Akhtar's Dil Dhadakne Do puts the fun in dysfunctional. Vanita Kohli-Khandekar and I revisit the 2015 comedy drama that happens to be one of our favortie films by Zoya. Join us!
If you enjoy the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Listeners join in to chat about some of our favorite films of 2022! Sandeep Padhi, Amey Pandit and Anirudh Somani join me as we reflect on RRR, Gangubai, Me Vasantrao, Kantara, Monica O My Darling, Jhund, Laal Singh Chaddha, Toolsidas Jr., and Jersey. We also chatted about Rajamouli, RRR's crossover success, SRK's Pathaan and more. Join us!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Sanjay Gadhvi directed Dhoom and Dhoom 2, two of the biggest action films of last 20 years. Sholay is not just the biggest film but probably the biggest action film of all-time as well. (More than) an hour on Sholay with Sanjay Gadhvi!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 47: Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008) - with Upendra Sidhaye
Nishikant Kamat's Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008) is a story of a city, grappling with paranoia and prejudice, that somehow always manages to muster the courage and show good sense in conquering its fears and prejudice.
Upendra Sidhaye, who co-wrote (with Yogesh Vinayak Joshi) the film and assisted Kamat on Mumbai Meri Jaan, joins me for a deep-dive of one of the most relevant films of last 15 years.
Mumbai Meri Jaan is currently streaming on Netflix.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Bombay Fables is one of the more interesting production houses. Their first two projects, Serious Men and Decoupled, both, have tasted critical acclaim and wide popularity. Their slate looks equally interesting with the recently released second season of Delhi Crime and the second season of Asur gearing up for release later this year. Sejal Shah of Bombay Fables joins me for a chat on producing prestige shows, OTT landscape, OTT trends, lessons learned from Serious Men and Decoupled, and much more. Join us!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Writer-director Abhishek Chaubey joins us for a chat on his films (Ishqiya, Dedh Ishqiya, Udta Punjab, Sonchiriya) as well as Omkara and Maqbool, films which he co-wrote/assisted on.
Abhishek and I chatted about adapting classics, writing good story endings, and prioritizing storytelling voice ahead of cinematic chops. He shared some cool stories around casting Naseeruddin Shah in Ishqiya, shooting the shootout at the train station in Dedh Ishqiya, the decision to nod to Ismat Chughtai's Lihaaf, and working with the Pakistani actor, Salman Shahid (Mushtaq Bhai). Abhishek also talked about learning from Vishal Bhardwaj, his mentor and friend. Join us!
Ishqiya, Dedh Ishqiya, and Udta Punjab are currently streaming on Netflix. Sonchiriya is currently streaming on Zee5.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Writer Sudip Sharma (NH10, Udta Punjab, Paatal Lok, Laal Kaptaan) joins us for a Sonchiriya deep dive.
Sonchiriya is one of my favorite films of last 10 years. It's also my favorite Sushant Singh Rajput film. I believe his performance, much like the film, remains underrated and under-discovered. This episode is, in part, an attempt to help people discover and appreciate Sonchiriya.
Sudip and I talked about key scenes and moments, conducting script research in Bundelkhand, casting Sushant and Bhumi, working with Sushant, the set pieces, and film influences on Sonchiriya. Sudip also shared how Sonchiriya is his tribute to Shekhar Kapur's Bandit Queen (1994), one of his all-time favorite Hindi films. Join us!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Gupt: The Hidden Truth evokes a wide range of memories for many. The timeless soundtrack by Viju Shah, the smashing reveal, wild dialogue, Rajiv Rai's direction, Ashok Mehta's cinematography, the amusing ensemble of supporting cast and of course, Manisha Koirala, Kajol and Bobby Deol.
As the film turns 25, cricket historian, statistician and author Abhishek Mukherjee joins us, in the capacity of a Bobby Deol fan and Gupt superfan, to look back on Rajiv Rai's bonkers 1997 murder mystery that has become an integral part of 90s pop culture. Join us!
Small correction: Love Hostel (2022) streams on Zee5, not on Netflix, as mentioned on the pod.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
A senior film journalist once mentioned that Gauri Khan (SRK's wife) once told her that reel-life Sunil of Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa was very similar to real-life SRK.
Hardik Mehta (Trapped, Kaamyaab, Decoupled) joins me to talk about Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1994), a film that holds a special place in the hearts of many 90s kids and fans of SRK. Join us as we fanboy over SRK and Kundan Shah's Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Rajamouli's newest movie is more than 3 hours long. Can't recall the last time I watched a film that long and walked out of the cinemas wishing it was longer. Loved it.
Film critic Josh Hurtado joins us for a deep dive of RRR as we try to unpack the film's goodness, Rajamouli's arc, and the film's traction outside India. We chatted about our favorite moments from the film, the magnetic charisma of Ram Charan and Tarak, the ridiculous action set pieces, the stunning sound design and how all the VFX/CG wizardry feels nicely wrapped around the film's emotional core.
Josh also shared his take on why he believes that Rajamouli, truly feels like the only candidate for an Indian filmmaker on the verge of an international breakout.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 40: Johnny Gaddaar (2007) - with Sagar Haveli (Paatal Lok)
Sagar Haveli, who co-wrote Paatal Lok, joins us for a deep dive of Sriram Raghavan's Johnny Gaddaar (2007).
Sagar and I tried to unpack how Raghavan excels at building tension and doing it beautifully, while paying homage to classic films and masters of cinema like Hitchcock, Vijay Anand, De Palma and Brij.
We chatted about — the creative transitions, the strong characterization, the on-note casting, Dharmendra, the MacGuffin, the tremendous music by Daniel B George & Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Govind Namdeo and the supporting cast, and much more.
On this episode, all things Johnny Gaddaar with Sagar Haveli. Join us!
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 66: Aatish (1994) - with Avneesh, Vikram and Saurabh
Aatish: Feel the Fire turns 30 this year. Avneesh Prashar, Saurabh Nair, Vikram Bondal and I celebrate Sanjay Gupta's 1994 action drama, a film that all four of us are fond of. Join us as we look back on — the bromance of Baba and Nawab; Gupta's eye for style, music, action and locations; and all other things Aatish!
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If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 39: Monsoon Wedding (2001) - with Rakhee Sandilya
Rakhee Sandilya co-wrote and directed the engaging 2017 drama Ribbon, starring Kalki Koechlin and Sumeet Vyas. She joins us for the next installment in our series of deep dives with screenwriters/filmmakers on their favorite films. Rakhee chose Mira Nair's celebrated 2001 drama Monsoon Wedding.
We tried to unpack why Monsoon Wedding was such a bold and important film, and how it was a triumph of weaving together multiple strands of narrative. Rakhee elaborated on her favorite scenes, Mira Nair's style, the wonderful casting, and the tremendous performances. We raved about Shefali Shah, Vijay Raaz, Rajat Kapoor, Tillotama Shome, and the endearing love story of Alice and Dubey.
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Episode 38: A R Rahman of 90s - with Karthik Srinivasan
A look back at A R Rahman of 90s with popular music blogger and Rahman super-fan, Karthik Srinivasan.
We revisit 16 songs from 90s, curated with the singular goal of showcasing what made Rahman of 90s so unique and special. The collection includes songs in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam. We've tried to stay clear of Rahman anthems in the interest of maintaining a HIGH 'discovery factor' for most listeners.
We also chatted about everything from our first impressions of Roja to Rahman's legacy. Karthik helped us unpack Rahman's generational impact, and how back in the 90s, he repeatedly and consistently broke away from every existing film music idiom.
Join us as we relive the magic of 90s Rahman!
Youtube playlist of songs: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXTNf8QAYPO7_FqWbQmh_-0Kffiui2vXf
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
This season, a small series of deep dives with directors/screenwriters on personal favorites, where I asked a small group of directors and screenwriters to talk about a favorite film that they have admired over the years.
First up, writer-director Atul Sabharwal (Powder, Aurangzeb, Class of '83) on J. P. Dutta's Ghulami (1985).
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Writer-director Gautham Vasudev Menon joins us on the season's last episode to talk about his writing, straddling the genres of action and romance, his process behind picturizing songs, and RHTDM at 20!
He shared cool stories behind Thalli Pogathey and Aaromale, the prominent use of closeups in his storytelling, what he makes of RHTDM's criticism, why Mani Ratnam thought Minnale was not the right movie for Madhavan at the time, and much more.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 35: Shakti (1982) - with Gautam Chintamani
Film historian and writer Gautam Chintamani joins us for a deep dive into Ramesh Sippy's Shakti (1982).
A film that Sippy is most proud of, by some accounts. A film that's Salim Khan's personal favorite among the films he co-wrote with Javed Akhtar. A film that pits together two giants of Hindi cinema, Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan.
Gautam and I tried to unpack why Shakti is one of Dilip Kumar's greatest films and how the legendary actor was able to elevate the performances of his co-actors. We also discussed the craft of Shakti, the women of Shakti and how they are projected as the mature counterparts of their partners, how the film can be seen as an amalgamation of Salim-Javed's films, the film's terrific score by R D Burman, and how Bachchan was neither overshadowed nor overshadowing in the film.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
An hour with screenwriter Ritesh Shah on D-Day (2013), Pink (2016) and Raid (2018).
We dissected scenes from those films and chatted about writing dialogue, screenwriting tips, Salim-Javed and what makes them special, some of Ritesh's fave screenplays: L. A. Confidential (1997) and October (2018), and much more.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 33: Gulzar's Ijaazat (1987) - with Pavan Jha
Gulzar's poetically cinematic Ijaazat (1987) is perhaps Hindi cinema's most mature exploration of divorce and live-in relationships. It's also a film whose dialogue is almost as lyrical as its songs.
Featuring a memorable feature-length waltz between two fine actors, Rekha and Naseeruddin Shah, and a terrific soundtrack by Pancham, Ijaazat is a film that truly showcases Gulzar's poetic sensibilities. A film worth celebrating, time and again.
We are joined by Pavan Jha, a technology consultant, an avid film buff, archivist and film historian, as we celebrate this lovely film. He shared numerous interesting insights into the film, touching on the film's characters, songs, dialogue and legacy, adding great context along the way.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 32: Tere Ghar Ke Samne and Vijay Anand - with Karan Bali
One of our absolute greats and arguably the most versatile Hindi filmmaker of all-time, Vijay Anand, left behind a legacy worthy of frequent celebration.
Filmmaker, film instructor and co-founder of the popular film blog, Upperstall — Karan Bali joins us to celebrate Vijay Anand and revisit one of his favorites, Tere Ghar Ke Samne (1963).
We chatted about the legendary director's craft, his gift for filming songs, his innovative approach to storytelling and his tremendous range as a filmmaker.
We then focussed on the breezy romantic comedy, Tere Ghar Ke Samne and talked about its classic songs, its innovative title sequence, our favorite scenes and the subtle, nuanced moments from the film.
Yes, we also touched on how Vijay Anand's approach with set design used in Dil ka bhanwar, might have influenced the popular American sitcom, The Big Bang Theory.
Karan also spoke on Vijay Anand's legacy and how it coincided with the golden decades of Hindi cinema.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 31: Watching Bachchan on big screen in the 70s and 80s
Chances are, if you love Hindi cinema, you love Amitabh Bachchan and his films.
Having grown up in the 90s, well past peak Bachchan mania, I've always wondered what it would've been like to have lived through that peak mania. What must the thrill have been like to have witnessed his stardom at its peak?
To get a better idea, I spoke with a small group of cinephiles and Bachchan fans who were fortunate enough to have watched the actor's 70s and 80s filmography on the big screen.
I was joined by hardcore Bachchan fans, Sandeep Loyalka, M. Tanveer and Sandeep Padhi to share their memories of watching Bachchan on the big screen in the 70s, 80s and early 90s.
Among the stories and memories they shared: Watching Sholay multiple times, bumping into Ramesh Sippy one fine day, camping overnight outside the theatre for tickets, eagerly awaiting the daily newspaper for updates on the actor's health following his accident on the sets of Coolie (1983), and watching Bachchan's films in a small town in Odisha.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Early in his career, Shah Rukh Khan did a series of films where he played the anti-hero. One of those films was Ram Jaane (1995), a full-bodied remake of the James Cagney classic, Angels with Dirty Faces.
Ram Jaane could've been a career-defining film for SRK but it failed to have a lasting impact. Nevertheless, it's a very peculiar film and if you're a SRK fan, you probably have many memories around the film.
In conversation with Vinay Shukla, who wrote Ram Jaane, on — the parallels between Cagney and SRK, SRK's performance in Ram Jaane, the actor's rather interesting wardrobe for the film, what the film could've been and why in spite of its flaws, Ram Jaane has its moments.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 65: Sharaabi (1984) - with Alok, Dipta and Shiva
Sharaabi (1984) turns 40 this year. Superfans Alok Sharma, Diptakirti Chaudhuri and Shiva Krishnamurthy join me as we celebrate the Prakash Mehra film that gave us one of Amitabh Bachchan's top performances, Bappi-da's ace soundtrack, and some of the most incisive and clear-eyed dialouge penned by Kader Khan. We talked about everything from the car-o-bar (bar in the car trunk) to the parallels with Animal!
If you enjoy the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 29: Satyajit Ray's documentaries - with Subha Das Mollick
Satyajit Ray made an absolutely moving documentary on Rabindranath Tagore.
He also made documentaries on — the blind artist, Binode Behari Mukherjee; Bharatanatyam dancer, Balasaraswati; Sikkim; and Sukumar Ray.
Ray had also planned documentaries on Nehru and Pandit Ravi Shankar, which never got made.
As we inch closer to Ray's centenary, we take a close look at the filmmaker's equally excellent documentary work. Professor of Film Studies at Aliah University (Kolkata) and documentarian, Subha Das Mollick, joins me to share her insights on Ray's approach to documentaries, critically examine the five documentaries, and to talk about the other two documentaries which Ray wanted to make.
We also tried to juxtapose the realism in his feature films with Ray, the documentarian.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 28: Ek Chalis Ki Last Local (2007) - with Sanjay Khanduri
Ek Chalis Ki Last Local (2007) is packed with quirk.
A delightful crime comedy, pulling off one improbable scene after another, and delivered with the confidence that's rare from a director making his debut film.
In conversation with writer-director Sanjay Khanduri on —
-his early days in films, assisting Kundan Shah and Subhash Ghai; Kundan's Shah's advice
-writing ECKLL and getting a small film made in 2007
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 27: Remembering Kader Khan - with Sukanya Verma
He was also one of the primary architects of, what I like to call, the Bachchan aura. He was instrumental in the careers of two other big stars as well - Jeetendra and Govinda.
Sukanya Verma, film critic, quiz-maker, and a true blue Hindi film buff, joins us as we look back on Kader Khan's legacy.
We talked about Kader Khan's difficult childhood, his course down the path of theatre, his early days in films, and his role in the towering career of Amitabh Bachchan.
We also covered Khan's mastery over language, which was instrumental in being able to write outstanding dialogue for filmmakers with contrasting styles, like Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra - makers of some of Bachchan's biggest films.
Sukanya also touched on her favorite Kader Khan performances, Khan's subconscious imprint on the comedy of actors like Pankaj Tripathi, and why she is a big fan of Patal Bhairavi (1985) and Taqdeerwala (1995).
Finally, I shared some cool trivia (sent in by a listener) about a dark film that Kader Khan had planned on writing and directing, with Amitabh Bachchan in the lead.
This month, it will be two years since we lost Kader Khan.
Join us, as we pay a small tribute, in our own way, to, as Sukanya likes to call him, "my favorite Khan."
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Kamlesh Pandey has written upwards of 45 films, including Tezaab, Saudagar, Aatish, Aks, Rang De Basanti, Delhi 6, and Yalgaar.
Kamlesh Pandey joins us for a chat on screenwriting, stories behind some of his biggest films, and how writing for Hindi cinema has changed over the last 30 years.
We chatted about Tezaab, Aks, Delhi-6, Aatish, his admiration for Walter Hill, working with Feroz Khan, and why our lives are incomplete without stories.
Also...
Did you know the trial show of Tezaab was a huge disaster, primarily due to its non-linear narrative structure, and the wife of a superstar wanted the film edited to a linear structure?
Did you know that Pandey had originally conceived Delhi-6 along the lines of My Big Fat Greek Wedding - set in Delhi?
Or how, initially, he was never interested in writing for Feroz Khan?
Or why he believed Sanjay Dutt was better suited to play Nawab in Aatish?
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 25: Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983) - with Kaveree Bamzai
In conversation with columnist, author and former editor of India Today, Kaveree Bamzai on Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983).
Superfan Kaveree and I tried to unpack what makes Kundan Shah's endlessly fascinating comedy — timeless. We talked about our favorite scenes, Kundan Shah's style, the comedic genius of Satish Shah, the film's increasingly relevant satire, its take on corruption and media, and the spoken language dialogue of the film.
We also touched on the influences on the film, from the Marx Brothers to Antonioni to the 1964 Dilip Kumar film, Leader.
Kaveree also made some interesting points about the famous 'Mahabharat scene' and why we, as a country, are much more touchy about the Ramayan than the Mahabharat.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
2 cult comedies, 2 massively entertaining blockbusters, and an iconic TV show...
In conversation with director Pankuj Parashar on — Ab Ayega Mazaa (1984), Karamchand (1985), Peechha Karro (1986), Jalwa (1987) and ChaalBaaz (1989).
Pankaj and I chatted about the films he made in the 80s. Films which I am a fan of. Films which have had an influence on Andaz Apna Apna, Rangeela, and Priyadarshan's comedies.
Along the way, Pankaj shared a truckload of anecdotes around making of those films. Anecdotes you do not want to miss! Anecdotes involving everyone from Naseeruddin Shah to Ram Gopal Varma to Kamal Haasan to Dharmedra to Sridevi to Alyque Padamsee to Ravi Baswani.
We also talked about why Jalwa and ChaalBaaz have aged well.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 23: Satyajit Ray's Aranyer Din Ratri at 50 - with Amitava Nag
In conversation with independent film critic and author Amitava Nag on one of Satyajit Ray's magnificent films, Arranyer Din Ratri (1970).
We reflect on one of my favorite films by Ray, as it turns 50 this year, discussing — scenes from the film, the craft behind the film, the strong women of the film, Sunil Gangopadhyay's novel, the film's place in Ray's oeuvre, influences on the film and the film's legacy.
Guest Amitava Nag has authored Satyajit Ray's Heroes and Heroines, decoding Ray's unique ability in extracting superlative performances from his actors.
Amitava has also hosted a wonderful series of video lectures on Ray's cinema on Youtube, titled: Ray@100 Video Lectures by Amitava Nag.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 22: YZ, Double Seat - with Sameer Vidwans (in Marathi)
In conversation with director Sameer Vidwans on — Double Seat (2015) and YZ (2016), present day Marathi cinema, takeaways from assisting Sachin Pilgaonkar, his creative partnership with writer Kshitij Patwardan, and more.
We chatted about the common thread between Double Seat and YZ, some of my favorite scenes from those two films, and the writing of the films.
We also touched on the problems facing Marathi cinema today - dwindling footfalls, why a large section of the Marathi youth struggles to connect with the Marathi cinema on offer, and why it is important for Marathi cinema to go beyond nostalgia.
Sameer also shared the lessons learned from assisting Sachin Pilgaonkar, in his early days.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
In conversation with Baradwaj Rangan on Mani Ratnam's modern classic, Nayakan (1987).
We chat about the landmark film's craft, including Kamal Haasan's departure from star signature for the role of Velu, DoP P. C. Sreeram's groundbreaking work, Raaja's legendary score — and Mani Ratnam, the formalist filmmaker.
Rangan shared his experience of watching Nayakan in the theaters at the time of its release, and we discussed the film's legacy, the film's influence on several popular films, as well as influences on Nayakan.
I also asked Rangan if we will ever get to watch an out-and-out action movie by Mani Ratnam.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 20: Manorama Six Feet Under - with Navdeep Singh
In conversation with Navdeep Singh on Manorama Six Feet Under, NH10, and Laal Kaptaan
Navdeep shared interesting stories and anecdotes about the making and casting of Manorama. We discussed the hat tips to Chinatown (1974), David Lynch, Antonioni and Brazil (1985). And yes, we did talk about the cab with pink curtains!
Did you know that before Abhay Deol got attached to the project, Navdeep wanted to make the movie with Irrfan?
We also talked about filming the violence in NH10, using violence as a storytelling tool, and casting Deepti Naval as Ammaji.
Also, I asked him about making Laal Kaptaan as a Western, the visual palette of the film, the beautiful low-angle shots (inspired by Sergio Leone), and how hard it was to sell the film as a Western to the producers.
Finally, Navdeep had some interesting advice for young filmmakers.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 64: Sapta Sagaradaache Ello, Kavaludaari - with Hemanth M Rao
Hemanth M Rao joins us to chat about his gripping, noir-ish investigative thriller Kavaludaari and the stirring Sapta Sagaradaache Ello (Side A and Side B). Hemanth also shared his experiences assisting Girish Kasaravalli and co-writing with Sriram Raghavan. Joins us!
If you enjoy the podcast, do consider supporting the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
In conversation with writer/director Nikhil Mahajan on Pune 52 (2013), genre filmmaking, Marathi cinema and Shah Rukh Khan
We chatted about the underlying themes in the 2013 neo-noir Pune 52, the casting, influences on the film and why Girish Kulkarni figures among the finest actors of our times.
Nikhil also spoke on genre filmmaking in India and today's Marathi cinema.
Finally, two fellow SRK fans got down to chatting about the kind of films we would love to see King Khan explore, the kind of film Nikhil would love to do with SRK, and... I shared my pitch for an action film, designed, keeping SRK in mind:)
**Spoiler alert for part of the conversation on Pune 52's ending**
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 17: Gol Maal, Hrishida and more - with Jai Arjun Singh
In conversation with Jai Arjun Singh on Gol Maal, recurrent themes in Hrishida's films, Utpal Dutt, Amol Palekar and more.
Jai has authored a lovely book on Hrishida's films, titled The World of Hrishikesh Mukherjee.
Jai and I chatted about the film's classic lines, the muted socio-political commentary, Hrishida's style of writing films in an 'adda' setting, Utpal's Dutt's theatre background, Pancham's timeless soundtrack, and Gol Maal trivia.
We also touched on few other comedies. Join us!
(Shout out to @FarziLogic for pointing out the bit on Professor Rele)
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support
Episode 16: Remembering Kobe Bryant - with Akshay Manwani
An episode dedicated to the memory of a generational, champion athlete.
Kobe Bryant touched so many of my generation with his game and his pursuit of excellence that following his untimely passing, I decided to do an episode in his memory.
NBA commentator Akshay Manwani was kind enough to join me on the episode to chat on Kobe's legacy, lasting on-court memories, the Mamba mentality and more. We also talked about how Kobe stacks up against other great Lakers, other great shooting guards, and other giants of his generation.
An one-off episode; a small tribute to Kobe, in my own little way.
Thank you Kobe, and thank you for the memories. Godspeed.
If you liked the episode and found value, please considering supporting the show. Your support will help me continue making good content for fans of Indian cinema everywhere across the world: https://www.buzzsprout.com/257788/support