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In a Cult of Their Own
‘Cults become cults, they are not made. It’s the becoming that is interesting, not the making.’
There are some films that sure fizzle out of the theatres in a heartbeat, but figure out a way to survive. Through a torrent leaked online, on an old bootlegged DVD or VHS, or YouTube upload, and then in the hands of the omnipresent Twitterati—the films form a ‘cult’ of their own.
This book is a tongue-in-cheek ode to these cult movies of Hindi filmdom, ones that despite not having made moolah at the box office, still made it to viewers’ memories for reasons—good or bad. Drawing from his own reminiscences of growing up on these delectables, and also face-to-face interviews with actors and directors such as Aamir Khan, Pankaj Kapur and Deepti Naval, the author celebrates these underdogs in a manner that is extremely readable and relatable.
There are some films that sure fizzle out of the theatres in a heartbeat, but figure out a way to survive. Through a torrent leaked online, on an old bootlegged DVD or VHS, or YouTube upload, and then in the hands of the omnipresent Twitterati—the films form a ‘cult’ of their own.
This book is a tongue-in-cheek ode to these cult movies of Hindi filmdom, ones that despite not having made moolah at the box office, still made it to viewers’ memories for reasons—good or bad. Drawing from his own reminiscences of growing up on these delectables, and also face-to-face interviews with actors and directors such as Aamir Khan, Pankaj Kapur and Deepti Naval, the author celebrates these underdogs in a manner that is extremely readable and relatable.
- GenresNonfiction
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2018
9 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Amborish Roychoudhury
4 books4 followersThis author takes considerable (somewhat misplaced) pride in calling himself a Film Buff. Has spent nearly a decade in financial services industry and about half a decade in the digital marketing space, and is writer and content creator.
Just completed his first book – a compendium of twenty good, great, bad and horrible films that he considers as Cult. The book is called In A Cult of their Own, and if you love the movies, you'd love it too!
Just completed his first book – a compendium of twenty good, great, bad and horrible films that he considers as Cult. The book is called In A Cult of their Own, and if you love the movies, you'd love it too!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 6, 2018
If you are movie buff this a must have and must read the book for you.
"In a cult of their own" is my second book based on Bollywood. The last book I read was "Khwabon Ka Safar with Mahesh Bhatt", which has wonderfully covered Bollywood period when whole movies were being produced in studieos. That book has increased my curiosity towards Bollywood related books. "In a cult of their own" had two eye catching features why I selected it. The first was the blurb. It started with lines from Shahenshah & Andaz Apna Apna, both movies are my favorite but flopped in terms of box office collection at the time of its release. The second reason was a collage type cover picture of the book.
You may not believe me but I finished this book in just one sitting. Last Sunday morning, I was checking pending books and this book came to my hand. I was checking book in a random manner, the first chapter I read was about "Gunda" movie. The moment I read that chapter, I kept all the books aside and went after other chapters or I would say movies. And before evening I had finished the book. Four hours and 45 minutes were invested. A breakfast and a lunch were taken while reading the book. Starting from Gunda to Andaz Apna Apna to finally Shahensha, I was completely drawn into this book.
Every chapter is narrated with author's initial reaction when he watched movies the first time, followed by interviews of director/actor of the movie, internet activities (cult creation if any) for the movie and finally current view about those movies. Interviews and articles about movies were really interesting to know. For example blog post on Gunda movie which was dedicated to its poetic dialogs, in that post blog author has tried to explain hidden meaning of them. Another example is a character contrary to Mogambo in movie Andaz Apna Apna which was conceptualized but didn't materialize.
Things that made me love this book
Section of movies - Though I have watched only 9 out of 21 films (the Last one was for whole Ramsay collection so not counted that chapter) I know how unique each movie was. So I think the remaining movies must be as interesting.
Narration Style - Instead of giving just facts, the author has given a good amount of entertainment with help of movie's legendary dialogues.
Detailed Review Link - http://chevusread.blogspot.com/2018/0...
"In a cult of their own" is my second book based on Bollywood. The last book I read was "Khwabon Ka Safar with Mahesh Bhatt", which has wonderfully covered Bollywood period when whole movies were being produced in studieos. That book has increased my curiosity towards Bollywood related books. "In a cult of their own" had two eye catching features why I selected it. The first was the blurb. It started with lines from Shahenshah & Andaz Apna Apna, both movies are my favorite but flopped in terms of box office collection at the time of its release. The second reason was a collage type cover picture of the book.
You may not believe me but I finished this book in just one sitting. Last Sunday morning, I was checking pending books and this book came to my hand. I was checking book in a random manner, the first chapter I read was about "Gunda" movie. The moment I read that chapter, I kept all the books aside and went after other chapters or I would say movies. And before evening I had finished the book. Four hours and 45 minutes were invested. A breakfast and a lunch were taken while reading the book. Starting from Gunda to Andaz Apna Apna to finally Shahensha, I was completely drawn into this book.
Every chapter is narrated with author's initial reaction when he watched movies the first time, followed by interviews of director/actor of the movie, internet activities (cult creation if any) for the movie and finally current view about those movies. Interviews and articles about movies were really interesting to know. For example blog post on Gunda movie which was dedicated to its poetic dialogs, in that post blog author has tried to explain hidden meaning of them. Another example is a character contrary to Mogambo in movie Andaz Apna Apna which was conceptualized but didn't materialize.
Things that made me love this book
Section of movies - Though I have watched only 9 out of 21 films (the Last one was for whole Ramsay collection so not counted that chapter) I know how unique each movie was. So I think the remaining movies must be as interesting.
Narration Style - Instead of giving just facts, the author has given a good amount of entertainment with help of movie's legendary dialogues.
Detailed Review Link - http://chevusread.blogspot.com/2018/0...
July 5, 2018
There are few movies that are always talked of even if they have been one of the biggest duds of their time and then there are movies which are actually good in terms of cinema and scripts but could not become successful because of either being ahead of times or releasing with no promotion or inappropriate timing. Such movies are known as “cult” and being discussed among movie buffs. Similarly, there are few books which are of the same kind but definitely this book named “In a cult of their own: Bollywood beyond box office” written by Amborish Roychoudhury is not in the same category but is actually one of the most unique books I have ever read. There are many books based on Bollywood which speaks about certain movies, songs or factors in Bollywood chapterwise but they bore the readers like hell making them leave it in between. But this book is definitely one of the best written books on Bollywood.
Amborish has picked up few movies of his choice from all the time range and discussed why there are being considered cult and what prominence or uselessness each of these movies possessed. Haha! Amborish’s style of describing the worst and illogical scenes of the movies is what makes this book interesting, humorous, laughable, funny and your favorite. The research work gone in knowing the whole background under which the movie was planned to how the casting was done and what challenges did the directors and makers face is completely visible in all the chapters. Author has ensured that the readers should know the mindset of the makers while they were filming these movies so that it becomes easier to understand how and why these movies got made the way they are.
The interviews taken by the author with few prominent personalities being involved in the movies discussed in the book are nicely presented in quotes between the chapters which gives you great insight about movie-making and the challenges that these creative people face in terms of schedule, star cast, making, deadlines, dates etc. My personal favorite chapters are on the following movies: - Mera Naam Joker, Silsila, Andaz Apna Apna, Gunda, RGV ki Aag and Deshdrohi. If you want to enjoy light humor and know the secrets behind these cults, read this book immediately. I give this one 4.25* out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
Amborish has picked up few movies of his choice from all the time range and discussed why there are being considered cult and what prominence or uselessness each of these movies possessed. Haha! Amborish’s style of describing the worst and illogical scenes of the movies is what makes this book interesting, humorous, laughable, funny and your favorite. The research work gone in knowing the whole background under which the movie was planned to how the casting was done and what challenges did the directors and makers face is completely visible in all the chapters. Author has ensured that the readers should know the mindset of the makers while they were filming these movies so that it becomes easier to understand how and why these movies got made the way they are.
The interviews taken by the author with few prominent personalities being involved in the movies discussed in the book are nicely presented in quotes between the chapters which gives you great insight about movie-making and the challenges that these creative people face in terms of schedule, star cast, making, deadlines, dates etc. My personal favorite chapters are on the following movies: - Mera Naam Joker, Silsila, Andaz Apna Apna, Gunda, RGV ki Aag and Deshdrohi. If you want to enjoy light humor and know the secrets behind these cults, read this book immediately. I give this one 4.25* out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
June 30, 2018
It is the offbeat films that has filled the afternoons for my mother and me for a very long time. We loved watching Mehmood and laughed at the eccentricities of Johnny Walker. Sometimes we just sat silently watching a film and trying to piece together the puzzle or the symbolic meaning of an action or word.
So, I was really glad to have this book “In a Cult of Their Own: Bollywood Beyond Box Office” as it has all the discussions that movie buffs like me and my mother can relate too. It has become one of the few non – fiction book that I enjoyed reading.
From the very beginning, readers will be able to realize how well – informed the author is on anything and everything related to this industry. He provides well – researched references as well as its sources so that the readers can witness particular cinematic moments themselves and appreciate the beauty of it. There are also interviews by celebrities who has been part of these fascinating films. If you are a movie buff, do give this book a read as you will know a lot about the film industry and the efforts and ideas that goes into the making of a movie.
So, I was really glad to have this book “In a Cult of Their Own: Bollywood Beyond Box Office” as it has all the discussions that movie buffs like me and my mother can relate too. It has become one of the few non – fiction book that I enjoyed reading.
From the very beginning, readers will be able to realize how well – informed the author is on anything and everything related to this industry. He provides well – researched references as well as its sources so that the readers can witness particular cinematic moments themselves and appreciate the beauty of it. There are also interviews by celebrities who has been part of these fascinating films. If you are a movie buff, do give this book a read as you will know a lot about the film industry and the efforts and ideas that goes into the making of a movie.
June 1, 2021
The book has motley collection of movies which is totally arbitrary and has no solid background or basis. Author says:-
For most films, I have tried to speak to the artists associated with them. This book contains excerpts from interviews with the likes of Naseeruddin Shah (Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro), Aamir Khan (Andaz Apna Apna, Raakh, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar), Rajkumar Santoshi (Andaz Apna Apna), Tinnu Anand (Shahenshah), Deepti Naval (Chashme Buddoor, Katha), Sai Paranjpye (Chashme Buddoor, Katha), Mansoor Khan (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar), Aditya Bhattacharya (Raakh), Rakesh Bedi (Chashme Buddoor) and Pankaj Kapur (Raakh, Chameli Ki Shaadi), among others. These interviews were conducted between early February 2014 and late March 2015.
However, movie buffs can read this once to go down the memory lane.
Some of these movies are good, even great. But are all of these cult movies? I doubt it.
This is Amborish's personal list and is not widely accepted.
Some descriptions from Suraksha (Gun Master G9) and Dada Kondke movies are funny.
G-9 rescues Jackson and the map, upon which, the shrewd and super-smart G-9 (early on, he’s introduced by the villain as ‘Khatarnaak. Chalaak. Sarkaari jasoos. Khubsoorat ladkiyan jiski kamzori hai’ [Dangerous. Clever. Government spy. One whose weakness is beautiful women], interspersed with shots of G-9 throwing knives into a watermelon) deduces that the map not only shows the diamond mine but also SSO’s hideout. All this while, SSO had been sweating itself to get a map of its own hideout—brilliant, no?
---
There’s a scene where Gulloo, who is a tailor, teaches Gillauri how to sew. Threading a needle forms the heart of the scene. Gulloo gesticulates as she struggles to put the thread in: ‘Ye sui…ab dhaaga daal de andar.’ (Here’s the needle… now insert the thread into it.) ‘Seedha daal de! (All the way inside!) ‘Dekha…andar gaya ki nahin.’ (Is it in? Are you sure?) ‘Bolo kyon gaya? Thook lagaya tha!’ (You know why it went in? I spit on it!)
For most films, I have tried to speak to the artists associated with them. This book contains excerpts from interviews with the likes of Naseeruddin Shah (Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro), Aamir Khan (Andaz Apna Apna, Raakh, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar), Rajkumar Santoshi (Andaz Apna Apna), Tinnu Anand (Shahenshah), Deepti Naval (Chashme Buddoor, Katha), Sai Paranjpye (Chashme Buddoor, Katha), Mansoor Khan (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar), Aditya Bhattacharya (Raakh), Rakesh Bedi (Chashme Buddoor) and Pankaj Kapur (Raakh, Chameli Ki Shaadi), among others. These interviews were conducted between early February 2014 and late March 2015.
However, movie buffs can read this once to go down the memory lane.
Some of these movies are good, even great. But are all of these cult movies? I doubt it.
This is Amborish's personal list and is not widely accepted.
Some descriptions from Suraksha (Gun Master G9) and Dada Kondke movies are funny.
G-9 rescues Jackson and the map, upon which, the shrewd and super-smart G-9 (early on, he’s introduced by the villain as ‘Khatarnaak. Chalaak. Sarkaari jasoos. Khubsoorat ladkiyan jiski kamzori hai’ [Dangerous. Clever. Government spy. One whose weakness is beautiful women], interspersed with shots of G-9 throwing knives into a watermelon) deduces that the map not only shows the diamond mine but also SSO’s hideout. All this while, SSO had been sweating itself to get a map of its own hideout—brilliant, no?
---
There’s a scene where Gulloo, who is a tailor, teaches Gillauri how to sew. Threading a needle forms the heart of the scene. Gulloo gesticulates as she struggles to put the thread in: ‘Ye sui…ab dhaaga daal de andar.’ (Here’s the needle… now insert the thread into it.) ‘Seedha daal de! (All the way inside!) ‘Dekha…andar gaya ki nahin.’ (Is it in? Are you sure?) ‘Bolo kyon gaya? Thook lagaya tha!’ (You know why it went in? I spit on it!)
April 14, 2018
If there was a way to give a 6* rating, I would have done so for this book.
For someone even with a passing interest in Hindi cinema, In A Cult Of Their Own is the perfect mixture of brilliant topic, amazing depth of research and a quirky writing style.
The book works really well because the author is obviously a fan, who has watched seemingly a never-ending list of classics and cults - now urging us on. He covers a wide variety of films... some so bad they're good (Clerk), some initial flops that became classics (Kaagaz Ke Phool) and some that are just 'cult' (Gunda). Joginder makes an appearance, as do the Ramsay brothers. Aamir Khan is interviewed in depth, as is Tinnu Anand. All genres of films, all levels of stars, all degrees of success are intricately documented in the book, clearly a labour of love.
This is the kind of book that you want to read fast because it is so interesting and want to read slow because you don't want it to finish.
For someone even with a passing interest in Hindi cinema, In A Cult Of Their Own is the perfect mixture of brilliant topic, amazing depth of research and a quirky writing style.
The book works really well because the author is obviously a fan, who has watched seemingly a never-ending list of classics and cults - now urging us on. He covers a wide variety of films... some so bad they're good (Clerk), some initial flops that became classics (Kaagaz Ke Phool) and some that are just 'cult' (Gunda). Joginder makes an appearance, as do the Ramsay brothers. Aamir Khan is interviewed in depth, as is Tinnu Anand. All genres of films, all levels of stars, all degrees of success are intricately documented in the book, clearly a labour of love.
This is the kind of book that you want to read fast because it is so interesting and want to read slow because you don't want it to finish.
September 24, 2025
Review: Here is one of the best book for fan moments, about certain films, directors experience, actors experience adventure and misadventures with there film is one of the most Loving things to read, the film who didn't get audience first later received appreciation after years, story work, shoot delays, accidents, reshooting, star egos, fan moment for sequel and some insane dialogue that are still used by people to address and in fun way. Problem that occurred like money starcast ,parents shadow , recommended stars, passion for work, props and works and popular names to be considered for interview. Author show great skill while writing this book as lot of research work has been done and there he met celebrity to fulfill the gap they found in the stories.
In a cult of there own Bollywood
Kaagaz ke phool is movie by Guru Dutt was most critically aclaimed film in 1970 although released in 1959 because it shows of tragic hero, and it was inspired from the story of Guru Dutt mentor " Gyan Mukherjee". This film was flop when release and effect Guru Dutt so much he left direction even after Raj kapoor console him that he made film 15 years earlier.
Mera. naam joker is story of joker who present his last act in front of all his life characters he met on his last show as he soon gonna die. Raj kapoor did that acting and movie was a flop, didn't receive much appreciation but it is best seller in Russia 63 million seats were sold as Russian don't like Hollywood at that time, and song " Awara hoon" was from there pop culture "jeena yahan marna yahan " and is most recognized song in Russia , manmohan singh heard it in his 2011 visit and Rishi kapoor in 2011 said its the biggest profit point in the Rk films till now.
Surakksha gunmaster g-9 by mithun make him famous, the action gadgets and car and devices that Bollywood spy shown back in 1980s days were now shown in the movies recently. And even in new age popular movie we see people saying characters name to there friends, pencil drill , smart watch, gun in crunches, grease laying car to skid enemy cars. Make mithun won first national award And most of the hindi films have villains from telugu, qawalli faceoff. And these happen after First James Bond movie. First in telugu then in Bollywood.
Chashme buddoor is about how characters got there role , how writer Sai Paranjpye wrote the script after Gul Anand told her to make fun movie. How theatre artist got work Ravi Baswani, Deepti naval share her experience, with Farook Sheikh , and Rakesh Bedi share his how he improvise skill with Sai poetry and how he change some words to make it impactful , Rakesh Bedi put his experience from his bachelor days where he share room with his friends and how imprompt improvisation done on stage while filming the chashme buddoor and they liked new chashme baddoor.
Silsila movie has suffered many different starcasts before Jaya Bahaduri and Rekha finally agree as there personal life was very disturbed that time and story they are lovers and Amitabh bachan and jaya Bahaduri become husband wife, the movie was flop but songs and dialogue were become life of the movie, and people didn't like it because it was simply challenging the institution of marriage and extra Marital affair which is difficult for audience to receive properly.
Jaane bhi do yaaro is talk between writer and naseeruddin shah, about what the problem faced by actors and team throughout the movie, how cast is decided, how naseeruddin shah came into picture how plot improvisation is done, how problem get raised while shooting and everything go wrong from electricity cut, generator down, bulb fuse but they enjoyed the part and completed the shoot and they find heroine during a play they watch as no one show up at sight of shooting at that day.
Katha is the like a grandma tale, a writer think of writing it, and wrote certain character and they director try to experienment certain things in the movie as he won't to break the stereotype of actors and change the audience view about the new age actors. So Farook Sheikh who use to be sweet innocent swami type was a shrewd character in this one. It was again by Sai Paranjpye.
Chameli ki shaadi , dialogue "naari narak ka dwaar hai" and many more dialogue . Pankaj kapur had his interview with author where chameli ki shaadi was discuss how script was written, how actors got appointed and how things changes from Anil kapoor, he take role to change is stereotype image of action hero. Charandas and his role was prominent too in the movie.
Andheri raat mein diya tere haath mein is double meaning horror movie and people take it that way although writer director face problem with censor but things were pretty cool as writer use double meaning dialogue to make the conversation crisp, and exciting and till now he meet everyone who came to him as he believes if he become arrogant then he is in deep problem.
India first Superman film made by B.Gupta today present in no ones memory, puneet issar who become star as after an accident with Amitabh Bacchhan happens during coolie but he got saved author feel sorry for director whose identity lost in time and no one not his family remember him now.
Director of shahenshah Tinnu Anand was at satyajit ray home for training, and share experience with author about how, when just before shahenshah is going to start, accident with Amitabh Bacchhan happens he fade out and his movie make a loss, script move from jeetendra and Jackie Shroff they backed out. Tinnu Anand was shattered and working with Maruti in advertisement promotion and Ajitabh assure him Amitabh Bacchhan will do his shahenshah and it was iconic for Tinnu Anand came a full circle.
Raakh was a short budget movie by Aditya bhattacharya the shoot at night in Subhash ghai godown with his prop from past movie author in conversation with Aamir khan , wher aamir said he was not satisfied because what they thought they didn't reach that potential because of budget issues but that was different from main stream movie as they all were in 20s or 30s who are part of shootings, and rape murder is not there thing but that didn't effect them , how pankaj kapur become part was best think and how he train aamir is another thing but alas 3 decade late movie is only on YouTube and less recognized by the people.
Clerk is about unrealistic cast of film and story have many allegory and metaphors and symbolic with characters and story is new author had a word with film cast few members as how father Having heart attack and son singing patriotic song. And didn't take false swear on Bharat mata for the crime he didn't did, but want to save his little brother from jail. Film have international case of Mohammed ali and zeba Ali.
Agneepath is biggest change of era as Danny never work with Amitabh Bacchhan before that as no role will let him survive and may overshadow him, although movie was not hit because of lot of competition with Aamir khan movies, Sanjay dutt movies and Anil kapoor and media was having a love hate relationship with the actor and that make it difficult for movie although dialogues did the work and later in remake it may Sanjay dutt (kancha cheena) biggest villains in the Bollywood history. And fan moment came for the star who played jr.vijay dinnan nath chauhan as he take movie without listening script as Amitabh Bacchhan was in it.
About Andaz apna apna interview with Aamir khan, and he told even though film was a flop because of distribution was late and didn't carry out properly and youngsters were not used to this kind of humour and movie comedy is ahead of it's time and he share that his daughter in her 16th year watched it and said papa its funny and they watch it on New year's eve with her friends and enjoy. It's author favorite and mine too.
Aamir khan also talk about how "jo jeeta wohi sikander " was recasted several times before the final cast and how they have to shoot and reshoot almost all the film sequence because either soul of the characters is missing or heroine didn't have dates or have to go back to there respective country.
Gunda movie starring mithun have many funny dialogues and many blog are written over critical analysis and critical appreciation is happened specially by IIT students.
RGV ki aag was a face moment as director was asked to wrote about it further as sequel but he make it his version of the sholay and failed badly even though Amitabh Bacchhan got his dream of become gabbar fulfilled in the film and RGV changes dialogue and name because he didn't get rights for making same movie.
Kashyap was considered as jinxter director as his 3 film were in problem paanch, black friday gulaal and might not seen the light of the day but he didn't gave up and come up with No smoking after K.K.menon and shahrukh khan refused to work john Abraham did it even though movie was flop but many good things were written about the movie and kashyap have taken reference from quitters inc, and Kafka and Stephen king the movie must not be a flop.
Deshdroyi was KRK hindi debut but his work was good as per dialogue are concerned, it would great if he focus on acting then actually go for film Reviews and trash talk fights over it. Message was clear against Maharashtra govt. To not hurt the people living in Mumbai from another state.
People remember joginder for his roles and watch the movie his name is associated with, his dialogues was legendary funny and humourous. And he died in 2009 after his last work duplicate sholay.
The Ramsay's brothers recognized for there horror and thriller genre as they make movies on that genre mostly and they also make india first 3 D movie named 3D saamri.
Lamhe is loved later as story of young lovers and then girl father age person and young girl romance was earlier discouraged.
Daud for funny names Of protagonist and antagonist and dialogue where movie got discussed.
Shaan for shakaal villainous acting but flop film.later recognized better.
Om Dar ba dar for many things it is viewed.
In a cult of there own Bollywood
Kaagaz ke phool is movie by Guru Dutt was most critically aclaimed film in 1970 although released in 1959 because it shows of tragic hero, and it was inspired from the story of Guru Dutt mentor " Gyan Mukherjee". This film was flop when release and effect Guru Dutt so much he left direction even after Raj kapoor console him that he made film 15 years earlier.
Mera. naam joker is story of joker who present his last act in front of all his life characters he met on his last show as he soon gonna die. Raj kapoor did that acting and movie was a flop, didn't receive much appreciation but it is best seller in Russia 63 million seats were sold as Russian don't like Hollywood at that time, and song " Awara hoon" was from there pop culture "jeena yahan marna yahan " and is most recognized song in Russia , manmohan singh heard it in his 2011 visit and Rishi kapoor in 2011 said its the biggest profit point in the Rk films till now.
Surakksha gunmaster g-9 by mithun make him famous, the action gadgets and car and devices that Bollywood spy shown back in 1980s days were now shown in the movies recently. And even in new age popular movie we see people saying characters name to there friends, pencil drill , smart watch, gun in crunches, grease laying car to skid enemy cars. Make mithun won first national award And most of the hindi films have villains from telugu, qawalli faceoff. And these happen after First James Bond movie. First in telugu then in Bollywood.
Chashme buddoor is about how characters got there role , how writer Sai Paranjpye wrote the script after Gul Anand told her to make fun movie. How theatre artist got work Ravi Baswani, Deepti naval share her experience, with Farook Sheikh , and Rakesh Bedi share his how he improvise skill with Sai poetry and how he change some words to make it impactful , Rakesh Bedi put his experience from his bachelor days where he share room with his friends and how imprompt improvisation done on stage while filming the chashme buddoor and they liked new chashme baddoor.
Silsila movie has suffered many different starcasts before Jaya Bahaduri and Rekha finally agree as there personal life was very disturbed that time and story they are lovers and Amitabh bachan and jaya Bahaduri become husband wife, the movie was flop but songs and dialogue were become life of the movie, and people didn't like it because it was simply challenging the institution of marriage and extra Marital affair which is difficult for audience to receive properly.
Jaane bhi do yaaro is talk between writer and naseeruddin shah, about what the problem faced by actors and team throughout the movie, how cast is decided, how naseeruddin shah came into picture how plot improvisation is done, how problem get raised while shooting and everything go wrong from electricity cut, generator down, bulb fuse but they enjoyed the part and completed the shoot and they find heroine during a play they watch as no one show up at sight of shooting at that day.
Katha is the like a grandma tale, a writer think of writing it, and wrote certain character and they director try to experienment certain things in the movie as he won't to break the stereotype of actors and change the audience view about the new age actors. So Farook Sheikh who use to be sweet innocent swami type was a shrewd character in this one. It was again by Sai Paranjpye.
Chameli ki shaadi , dialogue "naari narak ka dwaar hai" and many more dialogue . Pankaj kapur had his interview with author where chameli ki shaadi was discuss how script was written, how actors got appointed and how things changes from Anil kapoor, he take role to change is stereotype image of action hero. Charandas and his role was prominent too in the movie.
Andheri raat mein diya tere haath mein is double meaning horror movie and people take it that way although writer director face problem with censor but things were pretty cool as writer use double meaning dialogue to make the conversation crisp, and exciting and till now he meet everyone who came to him as he believes if he become arrogant then he is in deep problem.
India first Superman film made by B.Gupta today present in no ones memory, puneet issar who become star as after an accident with Amitabh Bacchhan happens during coolie but he got saved author feel sorry for director whose identity lost in time and no one not his family remember him now.
Director of shahenshah Tinnu Anand was at satyajit ray home for training, and share experience with author about how, when just before shahenshah is going to start, accident with Amitabh Bacchhan happens he fade out and his movie make a loss, script move from jeetendra and Jackie Shroff they backed out. Tinnu Anand was shattered and working with Maruti in advertisement promotion and Ajitabh assure him Amitabh Bacchhan will do his shahenshah and it was iconic for Tinnu Anand came a full circle.
Raakh was a short budget movie by Aditya bhattacharya the shoot at night in Subhash ghai godown with his prop from past movie author in conversation with Aamir khan , wher aamir said he was not satisfied because what they thought they didn't reach that potential because of budget issues but that was different from main stream movie as they all were in 20s or 30s who are part of shootings, and rape murder is not there thing but that didn't effect them , how pankaj kapur become part was best think and how he train aamir is another thing but alas 3 decade late movie is only on YouTube and less recognized by the people.
Clerk is about unrealistic cast of film and story have many allegory and metaphors and symbolic with characters and story is new author had a word with film cast few members as how father Having heart attack and son singing patriotic song. And didn't take false swear on Bharat mata for the crime he didn't did, but want to save his little brother from jail. Film have international case of Mohammed ali and zeba Ali.
Agneepath is biggest change of era as Danny never work with Amitabh Bacchhan before that as no role will let him survive and may overshadow him, although movie was not hit because of lot of competition with Aamir khan movies, Sanjay dutt movies and Anil kapoor and media was having a love hate relationship with the actor and that make it difficult for movie although dialogues did the work and later in remake it may Sanjay dutt (kancha cheena) biggest villains in the Bollywood history. And fan moment came for the star who played jr.vijay dinnan nath chauhan as he take movie without listening script as Amitabh Bacchhan was in it.
About Andaz apna apna interview with Aamir khan, and he told even though film was a flop because of distribution was late and didn't carry out properly and youngsters were not used to this kind of humour and movie comedy is ahead of it's time and he share that his daughter in her 16th year watched it and said papa its funny and they watch it on New year's eve with her friends and enjoy. It's author favorite and mine too.
Aamir khan also talk about how "jo jeeta wohi sikander " was recasted several times before the final cast and how they have to shoot and reshoot almost all the film sequence because either soul of the characters is missing or heroine didn't have dates or have to go back to there respective country.
Gunda movie starring mithun have many funny dialogues and many blog are written over critical analysis and critical appreciation is happened specially by IIT students.
RGV ki aag was a face moment as director was asked to wrote about it further as sequel but he make it his version of the sholay and failed badly even though Amitabh Bacchhan got his dream of become gabbar fulfilled in the film and RGV changes dialogue and name because he didn't get rights for making same movie.
Kashyap was considered as jinxter director as his 3 film were in problem paanch, black friday gulaal and might not seen the light of the day but he didn't gave up and come up with No smoking after K.K.menon and shahrukh khan refused to work john Abraham did it even though movie was flop but many good things were written about the movie and kashyap have taken reference from quitters inc, and Kafka and Stephen king the movie must not be a flop.
Deshdroyi was KRK hindi debut but his work was good as per dialogue are concerned, it would great if he focus on acting then actually go for film Reviews and trash talk fights over it. Message was clear against Maharashtra govt. To not hurt the people living in Mumbai from another state.
People remember joginder for his roles and watch the movie his name is associated with, his dialogues was legendary funny and humourous. And he died in 2009 after his last work duplicate sholay.
The Ramsay's brothers recognized for there horror and thriller genre as they make movies on that genre mostly and they also make india first 3 D movie named 3D saamri.
Lamhe is loved later as story of young lovers and then girl father age person and young girl romance was earlier discouraged.
Daud for funny names Of protagonist and antagonist and dialogue where movie got discussed.
Shaan for shakaal villainous acting but flop film.later recognized better.
Om Dar ba dar for many things it is viewed.
March 15, 2019
Stories behind some classics of bollywood. If you can't get enough of hits like Anadaz apna apna, daud, katha, chashme badoor, gunda, janne bhi do yaaron..this is a book for you the movie buff!
April 11, 2018
A bioscope view of Bollywood
There used to be this balcony in our old office where all the smokers used to converge. Divided by departments, but united by nicotine, that’s where I bumped into Amborish, the author, first. Both of us had hair back then and naturally our conversations drifted from gossip to chit chat, life philosophy to finally movies. Very soon I knew I am talking to an authority on the subject, a virtual encyclopaedia of everything movies. Hollywood, Bollywood, Mallu, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, Korean- we spoke about them all, he spoke more of course and I added my points here and there. But we hit that matching frequency, we seemed to like the same movies for roughly the same reasons. And we dissected many with glee. So when he announced that he was going to write a book on Bollywood Cult movies, I knew by ESP that he had a winner in his hands. Companies changed, we drifted apart, but through FB, I knew about the progress he was making, the many star interviews he had for the research etc. and finally his announcement that the book would be out soon along with the Amazon link.
And yes, 2 days back, Monday morning, to be precise, Amazon delivered the output to my desk. Tearing open the brown paper and holding the book in my hand transported me back to the balcony. And now that I have read it, whoosh, I so wish to be back there. “Bollywood, In a cult of its own” is so well-researched, articulated, edited and presented with so much passion and humour, if movies are in your blood, you just cannot give this a miss. I travelled right from Guru Dutt era to the 2000s, read about so many of my favourite movies, stars, their views and approaches to film making and was left astounded at times by the sheer magnitude of the stories behind these cult films. Prabhujee, James Bondy Jeetu, Aamir Khan, Deepti Naval, Naseer saab, all came alive in various points of the book. My favourite reads were the chapters on Gundaa, Jo Jeeta Wahi Sikandar, RGV ki AAG, Deshdrohi and of course Andaz Apna Apna. But don’t go by my word, discover your own favourite cult movies and what went behind making them. Or rather like Amborish puts it, cults aren’t made, they just become cults and it’s the becoming that’s so intriguing. Were they actually ahead of their time like Mera Naam Joker and Jo Jeeta wohi Sikandar or were they tailor made to be so bad that they are still followed with glee and ridiculed upon? It’s high time you find out for yourself, this is one book that you will want in your collection, to fall back upon, check facts and immerse into Bollywood lore every once in a while.
As for my discoveries through this book, I did not know that Jo Jeeta was reshot 3 times with so many changes in the cast. Hats off to Mansoor Khan for sticking by his vision and never compromising for what he felt to be right. Now I think I know, the genesis behind Aamir’s perfectionist tag. As Amborish’s former colleague and buddy, and as per him, the very first reader to gave him feedback on the book- you can always say I am biased. But I do wish to be proved wrong, this is one hell of a book, so well researched, so witfully and masterfully written, Dada, whatta a debut. Dear readers, do discover what makes a cult and then let’s talk. I will be at the balcony.
There used to be this balcony in our old office where all the smokers used to converge. Divided by departments, but united by nicotine, that’s where I bumped into Amborish, the author, first. Both of us had hair back then and naturally our conversations drifted from gossip to chit chat, life philosophy to finally movies. Very soon I knew I am talking to an authority on the subject, a virtual encyclopaedia of everything movies. Hollywood, Bollywood, Mallu, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, Korean- we spoke about them all, he spoke more of course and I added my points here and there. But we hit that matching frequency, we seemed to like the same movies for roughly the same reasons. And we dissected many with glee. So when he announced that he was going to write a book on Bollywood Cult movies, I knew by ESP that he had a winner in his hands. Companies changed, we drifted apart, but through FB, I knew about the progress he was making, the many star interviews he had for the research etc. and finally his announcement that the book would be out soon along with the Amazon link.
And yes, 2 days back, Monday morning, to be precise, Amazon delivered the output to my desk. Tearing open the brown paper and holding the book in my hand transported me back to the balcony. And now that I have read it, whoosh, I so wish to be back there. “Bollywood, In a cult of its own” is so well-researched, articulated, edited and presented with so much passion and humour, if movies are in your blood, you just cannot give this a miss. I travelled right from Guru Dutt era to the 2000s, read about so many of my favourite movies, stars, their views and approaches to film making and was left astounded at times by the sheer magnitude of the stories behind these cult films. Prabhujee, James Bondy Jeetu, Aamir Khan, Deepti Naval, Naseer saab, all came alive in various points of the book. My favourite reads were the chapters on Gundaa, Jo Jeeta Wahi Sikandar, RGV ki AAG, Deshdrohi and of course Andaz Apna Apna. But don’t go by my word, discover your own favourite cult movies and what went behind making them. Or rather like Amborish puts it, cults aren’t made, they just become cults and it’s the becoming that’s so intriguing. Were they actually ahead of their time like Mera Naam Joker and Jo Jeeta wohi Sikandar or were they tailor made to be so bad that they are still followed with glee and ridiculed upon? It’s high time you find out for yourself, this is one book that you will want in your collection, to fall back upon, check facts and immerse into Bollywood lore every once in a while.
As for my discoveries through this book, I did not know that Jo Jeeta was reshot 3 times with so many changes in the cast. Hats off to Mansoor Khan for sticking by his vision and never compromising for what he felt to be right. Now I think I know, the genesis behind Aamir’s perfectionist tag. As Amborish’s former colleague and buddy, and as per him, the very first reader to gave him feedback on the book- you can always say I am biased. But I do wish to be proved wrong, this is one hell of a book, so well researched, so witfully and masterfully written, Dada, whatta a debut. Dear readers, do discover what makes a cult and then let’s talk. I will be at the balcony.
August 9, 2018
If you're done marvelling at the super awesome colors of the cover of the book (which I clearly amn’t yet), we can go talking about it. The cover of the book and it's blurb convinced me that this book is worth the try for a film lover like me. When I started reading it, the dedication page of the book sealed it's fate: this book was already 5 stars for me. Now, the author has, through the interviews and his critical analysis of the cult movies made sure that there isn't a single dull moment here. Whenever we are reading a chapter, the author has the power in himself to transfer us to the time when this movie was made.
This power of the author made me fall for the book all the more. The movies mentioned in the book have achieved cult status over the years and the author explains exactly why with the help of anecdotes and sneak peeks into what the director or the actors thought of while shooting the movie. The chapters and the facts are complete inside the book with citations which we usually do not get in such books. Not for even a second did I feel that I am reading a nonfiction.
The lucid writing style is another plus point of the author along with witty remarks that held me as a reader. And I would hate the author this one time and mention it here, rather complain here because his book made the inner writer in me and an aspiring filmmaker in me, feel like visiting a feature film set and working behind the scenes (like I always wanted to). For all the movies mentioned in the book, my favorite has to be No Smoking because it gives me exactly the feeling that the author has as written.
For the cons of the book. Well, there are so few that it is negligible to even write about it. To begin with, I missed a certain 'Dasvidaniya’ and 'A Wednesday’ in the book and I'm sure the author knows what I am talking about. Next, no doubt the author has chosen those cult movies for the book but I, as a reader felt that if the book caters to a certain age of audience then along with these movies, a few more closer to years movies could've done no harm. And that's that. For a moment I felt that I am sitting face to face with the author and discussing these movies with him. That's a feature not many non fiction writers could achieve especially in his/her debut work. Also, I'll end with requesting the author to write more books on cult movies, underrated movies, overshadowed movies and the likes. This book was surely a 4.75 out of 5 for me.
This power of the author made me fall for the book all the more. The movies mentioned in the book have achieved cult status over the years and the author explains exactly why with the help of anecdotes and sneak peeks into what the director or the actors thought of while shooting the movie. The chapters and the facts are complete inside the book with citations which we usually do not get in such books. Not for even a second did I feel that I am reading a nonfiction.
The lucid writing style is another plus point of the author along with witty remarks that held me as a reader. And I would hate the author this one time and mention it here, rather complain here because his book made the inner writer in me and an aspiring filmmaker in me, feel like visiting a feature film set and working behind the scenes (like I always wanted to). For all the movies mentioned in the book, my favorite has to be No Smoking because it gives me exactly the feeling that the author has as written.
For the cons of the book. Well, there are so few that it is negligible to even write about it. To begin with, I missed a certain 'Dasvidaniya’ and 'A Wednesday’ in the book and I'm sure the author knows what I am talking about. Next, no doubt the author has chosen those cult movies for the book but I, as a reader felt that if the book caters to a certain age of audience then along with these movies, a few more closer to years movies could've done no harm. And that's that. For a moment I felt that I am sitting face to face with the author and discussing these movies with him. That's a feature not many non fiction writers could achieve especially in his/her debut work. Also, I'll end with requesting the author to write more books on cult movies, underrated movies, overshadowed movies and the likes. This book was surely a 4.75 out of 5 for me.
June 29, 2018
Publishers: Rupa Publications
Synopsis:
‘Cults become cults, they are not made. It’s the becoming that is interesting, not the making.’
There are some films that sure fizzle out of the theatres in a heartbeat, but figure out a way to survive. Through a torrent leaked online, on an old bootlegged DVD or VHS, or YouTube upload and then in the hands of the omnipresent Twitterati—the films form a ‘cult’ of their own.
This book is a tongue-in-cheek ode to these cult movies of Hindi filmdom, ones that despite not having made moolah at the box office, still made it to viewers’ memories for reasons—good or bad. Drawing from his own reminiscences of growing up on these delectables and also face-to-face interviews with actors and directors such as Aamir Khan, Pankaj Kapur and Deepti Naval, the author celebrates these underdogs in a manner that is extremely readable and relatable.
My review:
I must first admit that I am not a fan of non-fiction. However this book gripped me like no other.
In a cult of their own: Bollywood beyond box office is a wonderful review of several Bollywood classics, 28 to be exact. The author is obviously a person who is a genuine fan of these movies and is very-well read about it all, like one can decipher from his words.
The movies that made it to this list are all cult movies- movies that may not have been blockbusters, and yet so famous that people from even Gen Z may be considered their fans. The synopsis states that “Cults become cults, they are not made”, and this pretty much sums up the relevance of the myriad of movies named in this book.
The content of the book was very enlightening as well as entertaining. The author has done quite the bit of research to deliver impeccable reviews on the storylines, acting roles, directorial roles, the dialogues with their English translations, the music and the songs etc. There are also a multitude of interviews shown, quotes quoted, and various interesting conversations as well.
Coming to the cover, I loved the concept of the faded movie posters in the background of a very colorful cover. If not for the content, this book can certainly be a cover-buy. It couldn’t have been more apt than it is.
Verdict:
In a cult of their own: Bollywood beyond box office, is a treat for cinephiles and I would definitely recommend it to all the Bollywood fanatics, and I rate this a 4/5 stars.
Synopsis:
‘Cults become cults, they are not made. It’s the becoming that is interesting, not the making.’
There are some films that sure fizzle out of the theatres in a heartbeat, but figure out a way to survive. Through a torrent leaked online, on an old bootlegged DVD or VHS, or YouTube upload and then in the hands of the omnipresent Twitterati—the films form a ‘cult’ of their own.
This book is a tongue-in-cheek ode to these cult movies of Hindi filmdom, ones that despite not having made moolah at the box office, still made it to viewers’ memories for reasons—good or bad. Drawing from his own reminiscences of growing up on these delectables and also face-to-face interviews with actors and directors such as Aamir Khan, Pankaj Kapur and Deepti Naval, the author celebrates these underdogs in a manner that is extremely readable and relatable.
My review:
I must first admit that I am not a fan of non-fiction. However this book gripped me like no other.
In a cult of their own: Bollywood beyond box office is a wonderful review of several Bollywood classics, 28 to be exact. The author is obviously a person who is a genuine fan of these movies and is very-well read about it all, like one can decipher from his words.
The movies that made it to this list are all cult movies- movies that may not have been blockbusters, and yet so famous that people from even Gen Z may be considered their fans. The synopsis states that “Cults become cults, they are not made”, and this pretty much sums up the relevance of the myriad of movies named in this book.
The content of the book was very enlightening as well as entertaining. The author has done quite the bit of research to deliver impeccable reviews on the storylines, acting roles, directorial roles, the dialogues with their English translations, the music and the songs etc. There are also a multitude of interviews shown, quotes quoted, and various interesting conversations as well.
Coming to the cover, I loved the concept of the faded movie posters in the background of a very colorful cover. If not for the content, this book can certainly be a cover-buy. It couldn’t have been more apt than it is.
Verdict:
In a cult of their own: Bollywood beyond box office, is a treat for cinephiles and I would definitely recommend it to all the Bollywood fanatics, and I rate this a 4/5 stars.
June 13, 2018
Follow Just A Girl High On Books for more reviews.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Sometimes, a book is so amazingly good that you have no idea how you shall click a good picture of it so that it would do justice to the book and its cover. Obviously, if you saw the picture above, you'd realize how I was unable to click it.
If you've read my previous review of Legends Over Generations by Ashraf Haggag then you'd know how much I despise Non-Fiction. And yet, I'm ready to give this book a 5 star.
The first thing I'd like to talk about this book is of its cover. It is so colorful and attractive with all these movie covers on it. I'm staring at it right now and just wondering if a cover can be more apt for a book. [I believe the answer is no].
Then comes the title. What Amborish wrote in his tagline, Cults become cults, they are not made, more of less described the inspiration behind his title and book. When I think of it that, it's a really good title because more or less, he's right. Amazing movies don't have a fan-following nowadays, they have cults of their own.
Moving onto the book. This book is a detailed collection of 23 Bollywood movies. The movies were not selected on the basis of any one thing. There were a variety of things why these particular 23 films made it to the list. Some were because of the storyline, some because of the acting roles and characters, some because of the songs in it and some because of their dialogues.
The book ended up being a delightful read for me. I found tiny details about films that I had never known of before. A perfect book for a Bollywood dramebaaz, this talk of all the drama that Bollywood has held in store for us.
One thing that was the first thing I noticed when I finished reading it was how much effort Mr. Amborish had put into it was immeasurable. There were so many detailed interviews and so many beautiful conversations written and talked of. And to be honest, if I could have, I would have given it a 6/5 rating instead (if only that made sense).
So if you're a cinephile then do go and give it a buy. I'm sure you'd love it!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Sometimes, a book is so amazingly good that you have no idea how you shall click a good picture of it so that it would do justice to the book and its cover. Obviously, if you saw the picture above, you'd realize how I was unable to click it.
If you've read my previous review of Legends Over Generations by Ashraf Haggag then you'd know how much I despise Non-Fiction. And yet, I'm ready to give this book a 5 star.
The first thing I'd like to talk about this book is of its cover. It is so colorful and attractive with all these movie covers on it. I'm staring at it right now and just wondering if a cover can be more apt for a book. [I believe the answer is no].
Then comes the title. What Amborish wrote in his tagline, Cults become cults, they are not made, more of less described the inspiration behind his title and book. When I think of it that, it's a really good title because more or less, he's right. Amazing movies don't have a fan-following nowadays, they have cults of their own.
Moving onto the book. This book is a detailed collection of 23 Bollywood movies. The movies were not selected on the basis of any one thing. There were a variety of things why these particular 23 films made it to the list. Some were because of the storyline, some because of the acting roles and characters, some because of the songs in it and some because of their dialogues.
The book ended up being a delightful read for me. I found tiny details about films that I had never known of before. A perfect book for a Bollywood dramebaaz, this talk of all the drama that Bollywood has held in store for us.
One thing that was the first thing I noticed when I finished reading it was how much effort Mr. Amborish had put into it was immeasurable. There were so many detailed interviews and so many beautiful conversations written and talked of. And to be honest, if I could have, I would have given it a 6/5 rating instead (if only that made sense).
So if you're a cinephile then do go and give it a buy. I'm sure you'd love it!
April 21, 2018
In A Cult Of Their Own: Bollywood Beyond Box Office by Amborish Roychoudhury is a delightful read and I am going to say that I am totally biased in its favor for it appealed to the Bollywood lover and follower and me. Yes, I just said Bollywood lover and follower, for despite its major shortcomings, Bollywood films has it all: the drama and the madness that one needs for escape and I love to watch them in between the world cinema and other Indian non Hindi films.
The chapters devoted to the 20 cult Hindi films that the author has selected do not follow a set template: some have reminiscence of the actors or film maker involved in the said film, some have trivia and some are just good journalistic approach where the author puts together what is available in public domain. The first chapter on Guru Dutt’s Kagaz Ke Phool is poetic and lyrical almost in tandem with the film and that is the brilliance of the writing. The tone changes to one of wicked humour when the film choices move on to the Mithun Chakraborty starrer Suraksha or the Puneet Issar (of Duryodhan fame) starrer Superman besides a few others. The only chapter that came across as tired and repetitive was the one on the Anurag Kashyap directed and John Abraham starrer, ‘No Smoking’ but a careful editing of the chapter will take care of that.
This book deserves all the love it can get and more for it truly is a labour of love: one can imagine the amount of film viewing and discussions in various film forums online and offline that would have led to the book in its present form.
The chapters devoted to the 20 cult Hindi films that the author has selected do not follow a set template: some have reminiscence of the actors or film maker involved in the said film, some have trivia and some are just good journalistic approach where the author puts together what is available in public domain. The first chapter on Guru Dutt’s Kagaz Ke Phool is poetic and lyrical almost in tandem with the film and that is the brilliance of the writing. The tone changes to one of wicked humour when the film choices move on to the Mithun Chakraborty starrer Suraksha or the Puneet Issar (of Duryodhan fame) starrer Superman besides a few others. The only chapter that came across as tired and repetitive was the one on the Anurag Kashyap directed and John Abraham starrer, ‘No Smoking’ but a careful editing of the chapter will take care of that.
This book deserves all the love it can get and more for it truly is a labour of love: one can imagine the amount of film viewing and discussions in various film forums online and offline that would have led to the book in its present form.
July 17, 2020
This is not a book for everyone. It has among the narrowest of audiences - those who are bollywood buffs, and have a similar taste in movies as the author. Well, I fall squarely in the fairway on those counts, so I enjoyed reading it.
The author picks out 20-odd "cult" movies in Bollywood, and discusses them in detail. However, most of these are not really unknown underdogs, but actually mainstream movies which are quite well known. (In that vein, I found his also-rans list far more interesting, as it featured actual underdogs like Urf Professor and Waisa Bhi Hota Hai Part 2).
Having watched and loved most of the featured movies, this was like a walk through nostalgia lane-for me. However, I really enjoyed those chapters which were more than just the author's review and retelling - where he managed to interview some of the cast and crew, and get their thoughts and backstories on the featured movies. I wish there were more chapters like those.
If you fall in the narrow target audience for this book, you will likely enjoy it, and most definitely not regret the time spent. But if you go through the chapters list and find that you have not really seen or enjoyed the list of movies, you should give it a pass.
3.5/5
The author picks out 20-odd "cult" movies in Bollywood, and discusses them in detail. However, most of these are not really unknown underdogs, but actually mainstream movies which are quite well known. (In that vein, I found his also-rans list far more interesting, as it featured actual underdogs like Urf Professor and Waisa Bhi Hota Hai Part 2).
Having watched and loved most of the featured movies, this was like a walk through nostalgia lane-for me. However, I really enjoyed those chapters which were more than just the author's review and retelling - where he managed to interview some of the cast and crew, and get their thoughts and backstories on the featured movies. I wish there were more chapters like those.
If you fall in the narrow target audience for this book, you will likely enjoy it, and most definitely not regret the time spent. But if you go through the chapters list and find that you have not really seen or enjoyed the list of movies, you should give it a pass.
3.5/5
July 4, 2023
I knew I'd like the book even before I started (though, I don't know why I took 5 years to read it after I purchased it). However, the moment I started it, it was obvious I'd love it, as it comes from what I call the Diptakirti Chaudhuri school of Bollywood + Trivia + Humor. And it didn't take long to find Diptakirti's name in the acknowledgement section:)
Amborish takes us through a journey over the decades of some genuinely so good Bollywood movies like Kagaaz Ke Phool, Chashme Baddoor, Silsilsa, and the equally so bad it's good Andheri Raat Mein Diya Tere Haath Mein, KRK, Gunda etc. The common theme of course is the cult-ness of these all.
He gives a snappy summary before diving into rich trivia, anecdotes, and some personal interviews with stalwarts such as Aamir Khan, Naseeruddin Shah, Kundan Shah etc
I happened to read the book just prior to a weekend getaway with a bunch of Bollywood aficionados and the anecdotes and trivia helped liven up the evenings leading to Bollywood karaoke. It's absolutely not a book for everyone. But, if you're a Bollywood tragic like us, you must read this, every now and then.
Amborish takes us through a journey over the decades of some genuinely so good Bollywood movies like Kagaaz Ke Phool, Chashme Baddoor, Silsilsa, and the equally so bad it's good Andheri Raat Mein Diya Tere Haath Mein, KRK, Gunda etc. The common theme of course is the cult-ness of these all.
He gives a snappy summary before diving into rich trivia, anecdotes, and some personal interviews with stalwarts such as Aamir Khan, Naseeruddin Shah, Kundan Shah etc
I happened to read the book just prior to a weekend getaway with a bunch of Bollywood aficionados and the anecdotes and trivia helped liven up the evenings leading to Bollywood karaoke. It's absolutely not a book for everyone. But, if you're a Bollywood tragic like us, you must read this, every now and then.
December 23, 2018
This book is a must for anyone who adores Hindi movies and doesn't mind the peek into some of the greatest and even the most atrocious movies ever made. It has everything from Kagaz Ke Phool to Andaaz Apna Apna to Gunda to even Deshdrohi. The genre of failed masterpiece, as well as so-bad-it's-good! It breaks down the filmmakers' thought process and provides the meaning to symbolism in even the most confusing movies. (Case in Point: No Smoking. The movie had nothing to do with smoking and was an autobiographical venture)
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to have a good laugh and get a glimpse into the more solemn time of Hindi Cinema. You will surely find some gems to add to your watchlist.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to have a good laugh and get a glimpse into the more solemn time of Hindi Cinema. You will surely find some gems to add to your watchlist.
July 27, 2018
I love each and every story and dialogues .... This is really awesome book ... I appreciate his time and dedication towards the Bollywood and book . I didn't saw so many movies in Bollywood . This book experienced me. 😂😂 This is interesting book for dialogues and movies of Bollywood. And I loved everything . Stories , explanation , plotting dialogues . Totally Appreciated book ever of Bollywood. .
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August 23, 2018
I think this is his first book. While I might not agree with some of the selections (why Chasme Badoor, Katha or Chameli ki Shaadi when they were hits during their time, etc), the attempt at reaching out to the filmmakers, actors, etc. and getting interviews which are relevant is surely very commendable. Incidentally, I have not seen most of the films covered in the book - except the 3 I have mentioned and some others , but from what I have read, I find sincerity of purpose. Recommended.
November 9, 2019
A must-read on the cult films and offering snippets into the making, the various untold stories. Zorambo would have been one hell of a character played by Amrish Puri following the iconic Mogambo in Andaz Apna Apna or Jeetendra being considered for Amitabh's role in Shahenshah that was almost shelved. A must-read.
April 12, 2021
Well narrated.
All those films that unfortunately passed away or relegated to an arhive of faded memories, skillfully brought alive by the author.
All those films that unfortunately passed away or relegated to an arhive of faded memories, skillfully brought alive by the author.
January 24, 2022
Writing got a bit repetitive but I want to watch lots of trashy cult movies from this book! They sound hilarious!
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