Bollywood is known for being frequently inspired by Hollywood movies. However, it’s not often that the industry’s efforts are fruitful. But there are always exceptions that shine through and make for an entertaining watch, even when they are not original.
We looked all over the internet and brought you four Hollywood-inspired Bollywood cult movies that are definitely worth a watch!
Let’s take a look:
1. Mohabbatein (2000), inspired by Dead Poet’s Society
Shah Rukh Khan tries his best to fill the shoes of the brilliant Robin Williams in this Dead Poet’s Society-inspired movie. The plot remains more or less the same; only instead of being a literature teacher like the original, Khan plays a music teacher in the film.
The story explores the coming of age of his students as he inspires them to emote and be themselves in a school run by the authoritarian head played by Amitabh Bachchan.
However, unlike Dead Poet’s Society, the story has a strong romantic theme that gives the movie its charm. No matter which of these you choose to watch, you are in for a treat!
2. Partner (2007) inspired by Hitch
Partner follows a more stick-to-the-material philosophy as one of the most popular Hollywood-inspired Bollywood cult movies. It has Salman Khan replacing Will Smith as Hitch, with Govinda playing the comical yet lovable sidekick Kevin James in the Hollywood counterpart.
Love Guru, played by Khan, tries to help the clueless Bhaskar Diwakar Chaudhry to woo the girl of his dreams, played by Katrina Kaif. The romantic comedy struck gold in the box office with both versions and should be on your list of must-watch comedies.
3. Agneepath (1990), inspired by Scarface
A low-life scum lives the tough life to rise to the rank of Mafia boss. Very few actors could have done justice to the iconic portrayal of Tony Montana by Al Pacino, which is probably why Mukul S. Anand chose Amitabh Bachchan to play the inspired character.
Gritty, authentic, and raw, Agneepath is one of the most evocative Hollywood-inspired Bollywood cult movies. Both these movies are worth a watch, a roller coaster ride filled with emotional moments and action-packed scenes.
4. Sangharsh (1999), inspired by The Silence of the Lambs
Sir Anthony Hopkins gave an academy-award-winning performance as a serial killer and psychologist Hannibal in The Silence of the Lambs. Jodie Foster played the young FBI agent charged with seeking help from the mastermind to pursue a new serial killer, Buffalo Bill.
In the Bollywood version, breakout performances were delivered by Asutosh Rana, the serial killer on the run, and Akshay Kumar, who played a version of Lecter. Priety Zinta replaced Foster as the police officer.
While it’s far from the original, Bollywood is gripping and a must-watch if you haven’t already!
These are our picks for the best Hollywood-inspired Bollywood cult movies. Think we missed something? Share your picks with the community in the comments section.
