In the bustling city of New Delhi, the excitement for cinema is palpable. A testament to this fervor is the joy with which audiences greet the re-release of iconic movies. Films that have not only shaped the landscape of Indian cinema but have also found a permanent place in the hearts of moviegoers. Below is a celebration of seven such cinematic masterpieces, featuring stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Mohanlal, and the beloved NTR Jr, whose return to the big screen has set pulses racing with excitement.
1. Amitabh Bachchan – ‘Abhimaan’, ‘Deewar’ and More
Big B remains a towering figure in Indian cinema, with a career that spans decades and genres. Honouring his tremendous success, PVR Cinemas commemorated Amitabh Bachchan’s 80th birthday by holding ‘Bachchan: Back to the Beginning’, a film festival across 22 theatres in 2022. This retrospective underscored the magnetic appeal of Bachchan, as scores of fans flooded into cinemas, eager to relive his most memorable performances.
2. Rajinikanth – ‘Sivaji: The Boss’
Rajinikanth, a name synonymous with the Tamil film industry, continues to intrigue and delight his vast fan base. Marking his 73rd birthday, ‘Sivaji: The Boss’ resurfaced in theatres to an astounding reception. The 2007 blockbuster, directed by the acclaimed S. Shankar, stands as a milestone in the superstar’s illustrious career. Its re-release was both a nostalgic trip and a fresh celebration of Rajinikanth’s on-screen magic.
3. Shah Rukh Khan – ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, ‘Veer-Zaara’ and More
Known for his romantic roles, Shah Rukh Khan’s films have become synonymous with Bollywood romance. Yash Raj Films recognized this legacy by hosting the Nostalgia Film Festival in February, screening enduring favourites like ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ and ‘Veer-Zaara’ at PVR-INOX theatres. The move not only rekindled the timeless love stories but also solidified SRK’s status as the unwavering king of romance.
4. NTR Jr – ‘Aadi’, ‘Adhurs’, ‘Simhadri’
Man of Masses NTR Jr has a special connection with his fans, who never tire of his dynamic performances. As NTR Jr prepares to dazzle audiences with ‘Devara: Part 1,’ fans rejoice at the opportunity to see some of his biggest hits back on the silver screen. Honoring his 41st birthday, ‘Aadi’ will be re-released in 4K, with special screenings to commemorate this event, underscoring the actor’s enduring popularity.
5. Mohanlal – ‘Spadikam’
Mohanlal’s ‘Spadikam’ is an ageless marvel that continues to resonate with audiences even after years of its initial release. The 1995 Malayalam classic was brought back to life in 4K quality last year, evoking emotional responses and proving the timelessness of the actor’s filmography. With a cast featuring some of the finest talents, the re-release was a tribute to the authenticity and the enduring charm of Malayalam cinema.
6. Thalapathy Vijay – ‘Ghilli’
Vijay, affectionately known as Thalapathy, has left an indelible mark with ‘Ghilli,’ his 2004 Tamil action film. As ‘Ghilli’ gears up for a re-release 20 years after it first captivated audiences, the anticipation is palpable. A new trailer promises to recapture the film’s high-octane energy, ensuring that even two decades later, ‘Ghilli’ retains its ability to excite and entertain.
7. Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan – ‘Jab We Met’
Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Jab We Met,’ starring Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan, is a quintessential romantic comedy that has won over audiences across the globe. Its re-release this Valentine’s Day, 16 years after its debut, allowed fans to re-experience the chemistry, the music, and the iconic dialogues that have made the film a benchmark in Bollywood rom-coms.
As these seven films make their way back to the silver screen, they reignite passions and remind us why we fall in love with the movies. Each re-release is a bridge between the past and present, offering a chance for new generations to witness these cinematic triumphs, and for long-time fans to rediscover the magic that made them special in the first place. The fervour with which these comebacks are met speaks to the power and longevity of great storytelling and the immortal charm of our beloved stars.
