The year 2018 saw the rise of some good content-driven, small budget films. Last year also witnessed audience welcoming actors and character roles beyond the Khans of Bollywood. This year, too, looks promising for Bollywood with a range of upcoming releases, both small budget and large-scale. While there are biopics and political dramas in the lineup, watch out for some great historical films, too.
Here's a look at some of the most anticipated Bollywood films of 2019:
Uri: The Surgical Strike (Release: Jan 11)
Vicky Kaushal ruled hearts in 2018 with his performances in films like Raazi, Sanju and Manmarziyaan. This year he is set to woo audiences with his portrayal of an army officer in the film that is inspired from the surgical strikes on Pakistan in 2016 after the Uri base camp in Jammu was attacked. The film which also features Yami Gautam is directed by debutant Aditya Dhar.
The Accidental Prime Minister (Release: Jan 11)
Based on the book by the same name by Sanjaya Baru, adviser to former prime minister Manmohan Singh, the film chronicles Singh's political journey. With Anupam Kher essaying Manmohan Singh, the first look posters had garnered widespread attention due to Kher's uncanny resemblance to Singh. One of the highly anticipated releases of 2019, the political drama is expected to ruffle some feathers.
Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (Release: January 25)
This much-awaited historical drama will see Kangana Ranaut essaying Rani Laxmibhai of Jhnasi who takes on a fight against the British East India Company. The big-budget film has been creating controversies since its launch with a fringe outfit demanding a ban on the film. The film was back in the news again after actor Sonu Sood walked out of the film following disagreements with Kangana who had steeped into the director's shoes. Manikarnika also features Ankita Lokhande, Danny Denzongappa, Atul Kulkarni and Zeeshan Ayub among others.
Super 30 (Release: January 25)
In this biopic, Hrithik Roshan portrays Bihar-based mathematician and teacher Anand Kumar. Anand Kumar's Super 30 institute is famous for picking 30 meritorious students from economically backward families every year and training them for the IIT-JEE. Directed by Vikas Bahl who was caught in the recent #MeToo storm, Super 30 is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Phantom Films.
Ek Ladki ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga (Release: February 11)
The film will see father-daughter duo Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor sharing screen space for the first time. The trailer sends the impression the film revolves around family, and same sex love. The subject makes it a much awaited film this year. Also featuring Juhi Chawla and Rajkummar Rao, the film is directed by Shelly Chopra.
Gully Boy (Release: February 14)
This musical drama directed by Zoya Akhtar features Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles. The film is inspired by the real life stories of Mumbai-based street rappers Vivian Fernandes aka Divine and Naved Shaikh aka Naezy, known for their song Mere Gully Mein.
Kalank (Release: April 19)
Produced by Karan Johar, this big budget epic drama is said to be one of Johar's dream projects. According to reports, the film which is set against partition and the independence struggle, was conceptualised by Johar and his father Yash Johar 15 years ago. Helmed by director Abhishek Varman, this could be one of the biggest releases this year. The ensemble cast with Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Sanjay Dutt, Madhuri Dixit, Sonakshi Sinha and Aditya Roy Kapur makes this another anticipated film.
Kabir Singh (Release: June 21)
Directed by Sandeep Vanga, the film is the official remake of Telugu hit Arjun Reddy. Starring Shahid Kapoor in the titular role, the film revolves around an alcoholic surgeon who heads down on a self-destructive path after his lover marries someone else. Kiara Advani also plays a key role in the film.
Mission Mangal (Release: August 15)
Based on the real life story of women scientists behind ISRO's successful Mangalyaan mission, the film features Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, Taapsee Pannu, Sonakshi Sinha, Kriti Kulhari and Sharman Joshi. It is directed by Jagan Shakti and produced by Padman director R. Balki.
Brahmastra (Release: December 20)
Announced as the first in a trilogy, director Ayan Mukherjee's fantasy epic features Ranbir Kapoor in the lead. The cast also boasts of Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan, Nagarjuna, Dimple Kapadia and Mouni Roy. A major part of the film has been shot in the picturesque locations of Bulgaria.
