“Yash Raj”- Bollywood director with the Midas touch

If you look at the history of great Film Production Companies, “Yash Raj Films” will have its place right at the top. This esteemed film banner has been instrumental in giving us some of the best cinematic moments which have now passed the test of time and are remembered as classic.

2012 is quite special as this year marks the comeback up of the Legendry director   Yash Chopra with SRK and Katrina in the lead. Needless to say fans are eagerly waiting for it.

As we gear up for this awaited film, let us go down the memory lane and look back at some of their best work in last 2 decades.

Lamhe (1991): This Anil Kapoor–Sri Devi starer is perhaps Yash Chopra’s most sensitive and loved film, which back then failed to work at the box office. The film had great performances, beautiful cinematography, lovely music, especially the Rajasthani folk song” Morni”, matched by Yash Chopra’s powerful direction. Sadly, the film was ahead of it’s time and therefore failed to earn big bucks at the ticket window. But, its commercial failure couldn’t stop it from becoming a classic. Infact, today it is remembered as Chopra’s most loved film with a mammoth DVD sale record.

Lamhe remains a timeless classic which never got its due theatrical recognition.

Darr (1993): Yash Chopra’s effort of portraying a violent love story gave SRK his 1^st entry to superstardom. The film had a gripping story line and Shah Rukh’s endearing performance made it a run a way hit at the box office. Juhi Chawla never looked so beautiful before and this remains one of her all time blockbusters. The film still has enough fan followings and enjoys a decent TRP on television.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995): what more can be said about this cult hit? This Srk-Kajol blockbuster is still very popular and the songs are played at weddings even now. This was Aditya Chopra’s maiden directorial which became a classic amongst fans. It could well be said that the SRK and Kajol became household  names, post this film. The film also holds the record of being the longest running film in the history of film Industry. Needless to say, the film has acquired a cult status which would last for eternity.

Dil to Pagal Hai (1997): Yash Chopra proved that romance has got nothing to do with age. This SRK-Madhuri & karisma starer became an instant hit with the youth and still remains one of Srk’s most loved films. The songs were beautiful and the direction had blockbuster written all over it. The film opened on Diwali day and became a monstrous hit. Even the look of the film was highly appreciated along with brilliant piece of choreography by Shamak Dawar. All in all, a beautiful film that became a cult.

Hum Tum (2004): A film that made Rani Mukherjee a superstar and gave Saif his 1^st recognition as a solo hero. This “Harry Met Sally” inspired had its moments which touched the right note with audience, resulting in being the 1^st big hit of 2004. It also brought director Kunal Kohli in limelight. The film still enjoys good popularity.

Veer Zaara (2004): This Indo-Pak love story was a bold attempt on Yash Chopra’s part as it dealt with the sensitive issue of love arising between 2 people across the border. The film marked SRK’s brilliant performance, well supported by Rani Mukherjee and Pretiy Zinta.

The film became the top-grossing Bollywood film of the year at both the Indian and the international box office, earning over Rs. 750 million worldwide, in addition to being showcased at numerous prominent film festivals around the world.

Fanaa (2006), was one the most interesting casting of the decade as it brought two powerhouse performers Aamir & Kajol together as couple on silver screen. Their chemistry was electrifying, which even made up for the flaws in its screenplay. The film became on the highest grossers of that year and got Kajol her 4^th “best actress Filmfare awards”.

Chak De India (2007): A film that became a milestone film in SRK’s career. His performance as Kabir Khan not only earned him awards, but also proved that he can act without his so call mannerisms. He was natural and brilliant. Earning over Rs 639 million, Chak De! India was the third highest grossing movie of 2007 in India and was critically acclaimed too.

Apart from the above mentioned films, Yash Raj has given many others hits like the Dhoom series and Rab Me Banadi Jod, which are equally popular. Infact Dhoom 3, the latest addition to the Dhoom franchise is touted as their biggest film ever, eyeing for a 2013 release.

We would like to know your most favorite Yash Raj Films so do share your views with us.   [Article View] : 1734