2016: Bollywood dares, succeeds, sets higher benchmark

Neerja Sonam Kapoor presents a studied portrait of the brave Neerja Bhanot who is remembered for her selfless heroism in the face of adverse danger. Director Ram Madhvani recreates the tension on the hijacked aircraft in this touching tribute.

Aligarh Manoj Bajpayee turns in a tour de force performance as the professor persecuted for his sexuality in this film directed by Hansal Mehta. Rajkummar Rao plays the intrepid reporter who follows the story and befriends Professor Siras, harassed by a narrow-minded moralistic society.(Photo | Youtube)

Phobia A genre film, Pavan Kripalani’s supernatural thriller was surprisingly satisfying, not least because of the mood he created, but also for the remarkable performance by Radhika Apte, supported by Satyadeep Mishra and Yashaswini Dayama.

Waiting A heartfelt look at the mind-space of two people who strike up an unexpected friendship in a hospital waiting room. With the talents of Naseeruddin Shah and Kalki Koechlin, director Anu Menon explores the emotions that run through in those hours and days as lives hang on the precipice.

Pink Powerful and sharp, Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury’s drama took on the subject of equality, gender discrimination, women’s rights and consent to poke raw wounds. Robust performances by a sincere ensemble cast led by Amitabh Bachchan contributed to Pink being a film that made people think.| File Photo

Udta Punjab Worlds collide as substance abuse and the drug trade overrun certain lives in Abhishek Chaubey’s drama. Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh bring an edge to this frightening world. Udta Punjab also has one of the best soundtracks of the year (by Amit Trivedi).

Dhanak Nagesh Kukunoor’s fable tells the story of a brother and sister who set off on a life-changing journey, and Pari is determined to fulfill her promise to her younger brother Chotu. Great locations, music and memorable cameos enhance the narrative.

Dangal Nitesh Tiwari respectfully crafted the story of Mahavir Singh Phogat and Aamir Khan painstakingly bulked up to play the part of the wrestler/trainer. The four girls Zaira Wasim, Suhani Bhatnagar, Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra, who played his daughters Geeta and Babita, worked hard to get into the skin of the young wrestlers, trained by their father with an iron fist. A simple biopic that touched all the right chords while also delivering a message.