All 23 Kaifi Azmi Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Dive into the world of Kaifi Azmi, a renowned Indian poet, lyricist, and actor, through our comprehensive roundup of his most memorable film appearances. From his debut role in “Ankhen” to his last performance in “Amoli, “ this article takes you on a journey through time as we explore the versatility and depth of Azmi’s on-screen persona. Discover how his mastery of the art of storytelling translates into unforgettable performances, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema forever.
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1. The Chess Players (1977)
Dubbed “The Chess Players” or “Shatranj Ke Khilari,” this 1977 film masterpiece is a historical comedy-drama piece directed by the acclaimed Satyajit Ray and penned by Munshi Premchand, Ray, and Shama Zaidi. Set during the year of 1856 in India, the narrative centers around two overly obsessed noblemen who are blinded by their infatuation with an intriguing game of chess, completely oblivious to the encroaching British rule engulfing their Indian territory.
2. Gangvaa (1984)
“Gangvaa, “ released in 1984, is a thrilling action-drama film featuring the charismatic Rajinikanth in the lead role. Gangva, a vigilante by nature, leads a group of people in a forest, robbing the rich to redistribute the wealth among the poor. However, his actions draw the ire of a power-hungry police officer who will stop at nothing to capture Gangva.
3. La nuit Bengali (1988)
Experience a steamy fusion of cultures in the 1988 film “La nuit Bengali, “ where a British engineer falls head over heels for his Indian employer’s eldest daughter amidst an intense East-meets-West clash. As passion ignites and cultural barriers crumble, their forbidden romance leads to surprising and tragic consequences.
4. Ek Doctor Ki Maut (1990)
Experience the life-changing journey of Dr. Dipankar Roy, an unsung champion in the fight against leprosy, in the powerful Indian drama “Ek Doctor Ki Maut. “ Set against the backdrop of professional jealousy and political corruption, this film explores the impact of discovery and heroism on a humble man.
5. City of Joy (1992)
“City of Joy” is a captivating drama that unfolds in the lively city of Calcutta, India. This film delves into themes of optimism, camaraderie, and the transformative power of hope. The narrative revolves around an American doctor, a British nurse, and an uneducated Indian farmer, who join forces to positively impact a struggling ghetto community.
6. Son of the Pink Panther (1993)
“Son of the Pink Panther” is a 1993 comedy-crime movie that brings laughter and suspense to the big screen. The film follows Charles Dreyfus, a man struggling to move on from his past, as he encounters Jacques Gambrelli, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Inspector Clouseau — the very man who drove Dreyfus mad. Little did he know, Gambrelli is none other than Clouseau’s estranged son.
7. Fire (1996)
Fire is a captivating 1996 drama film directed by Deepa Mehta and written by Mehta, exploring the unconventional love between two mentally unstable women who are abandoned by their husbands. Shabana Azmi and Nandita Das lead the compelling ensemble, delivering powerful performances as the two women who discover solace and support in each other’s arms. The film, set against a backdrop of repression and societal norms, dives deep into the complexities of the human psyche, challenging conventional beliefs and pushing the boundaries of love and romance.
8. Earth (1998)
“Earth, “ released in 1999, is an intense and emotionally charged drama-romance film set in a time of political and religious turmoil. The film, directed by Deepa Mehta and written by her along with Bapsi Sidhwa, is based on the novel “Moonlight on water” by Sidhwa. The story unfolds against the background of the 1947 Partition of India and Pakistan, where borders are being redrawn, tensions are escalating, and the repercussions of love and religious conflict are at the heart of the story.
9. Side Streets (1998)
“Side Streets, “ released in 1998 and boasting a PG-13 rating, is a captivating comedy filled with unexpected twists. Set against the backdrop of a bustling urban environment, the story revolves around Bipin Raj, a Staten Island cab driver with a surprising claim to fame. Mistaking a passenger for a Bollywood megastar, he weaves an entertaining tale of his brother Vikram Raj’s success, as they both engage in a playful deception.
10. Gaja Gamini (2000)
Step into the enchanting world of Gaja Gamini, a mesmerizing cinematic experience that takes you on a journey through the ages, as the embodiment of the Indian spirit comes to life.
11. Tehzeeb (2003)
“Tehzeeb,” a 2003 drama film, masterfully crafts an emotional journey for the audience, focusing on the intricate nuances of family ties, love, and selfless acts. The directorial prowess of Khalid Mohamed brings this engaging story to life, featuring the exceptional talents of Shabana Azmi, Urmila Matondkar, and Arjun Rampal. The plot centers around a renowned singer reuniting with her estranged daughters, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of the profound bond between mothers and daughters.
12. Lakshya (2004)
Lakshya is a captivating journey of self-discovery, following the life of an aimless, jobless, and irresponsible man who finds purpose in joining the Indian military. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, this intense action-drama blends intriguing character development with elements of romance and military academy life.
13. Waterborne (2005)
In the heart of Los Angeles, the unexpected happens as a terrorist attack strikes at the city’s water supply. A group of diverse, local residents from different backgrounds are thrown together by fate, forging strong bonds amid the chaos. With the help of a military specialist and a Sikh community leader, they must work together to uncover the truth behind the attack and find a way to save their city from impending doom.
14. Om Shanti Om (2007)
In the heart of Mumbai, India, a young man’s dream is tragically cut short in the 1970s. Om, an aspiring actor, is brutally murdered, but his soul refuses to rest. Reincarnated into the present day, his quest begins to unravel the mystery surrounding his untimely demise. He searches for Shanti, the love of his previous life, to find solace and answers.
15. Luck by Chance (2009)
“Luck by Chance” is a dramatic exploration of life, love, and the pursuit of success in the world of Bollywood. Directed by Zoya Akhtar and written by Zoya Akhtar, Javed Akhtar, and Athar Nawaaz, this 2009 cinematic gem follows the story of Vikram, an aspiring actor who is given the chance of a lifetime to play the lead role in a Bollywood film.
16. It’s a Wonderful Afterlife (2010)
“It’s a Wonderful Afterlife” is a delightful and dark comedy-drama by director Gurinder Chadha, who also co-writes the screenplay alongside Paul Mayeda Berges. The film follows an overzealous Indian mother who becomes obsessed with finding the perfect match for her daughter, leading her down a bizarre and bloodthirsty path in the realm of serial murder.
17. Love Breakups Zindagi (2011)
The film “Love Breakups Zindagi,” released in 2011, is an amusing and touching tribute to the complexities and challenges of relationships, set amidst the festivities of a wedding celebration. Starring an impressive cast, including Zayed Khan, Dia Mirza, and Cyrus Sahukar, this movie offers viewers a delicious blend of comedy, drama, and romance.
Directed by Sahil Sangha and written by dynamic duo Sahil Sangha and Sanyuktha Chawla Shaikh, “Love Breakups Zindagi” proves a delightful reminder that love, laughter, and true companionship can sustain you through any tumult.
In the crowded landscape of similar fare like “Billu,” “Ishq,” and “Piku,” this film surely steals the show. Miss it at your peril.
18. The Reluctant Fundamentalist (2012)
Experience the gripping drama of “The Reluctant Fundamentalist, “ directed by award-winning filmmaker Mira Nair. This powerful 2012 film stars Riz Ahmed, Liev Schreiber, and Kiefer Sutherland, and follows the journey of an aspiring Pakistani man torn between the pursuit of the American Dream on Wall Street and the demands of his family’s homeland.
19. Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola (2013)
“Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola” is a 2013 Indian comedy-drama directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and written by himself and Abhishek Chaubey. Set in Haryana, India, the film tells the story of Harry, an unconventional industrialist who cares deeply for his daughter, Bijlee, and their unbreakable bond with Harry’s loyal servant, Matru.
20. Jazbaa (2015)
“Jazbaa, “ directed by Sanjay Gupta, is a thrilling crime drama that takes the audience on a suspense-filled journey. The film stars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as a tenacious lawyer whose life takes a dramatic turn when her daughter is kidnapped. With only four days to save her child, the lawyer must take on the seemingly impossible task of saving a rapist from the death penalty, using him as a pawn for ransom.
21. Bollywood and Beyond: A Century of Indian Cinema (2015)
Step into the world of Indian cinema with “Bollywood and Beyond: A Century of Indian Cinema” (2015). Join British actor and comedy writer Sanjeev Bhaskar as he unravels his unique awakening to Indian cinema. Interwoven with captivating interviews and insightful clips, this documentary offers an in-depth look into the evolution and impact of Indian cinema over the last century.
22. Neerja (2016)
In the gripping drama “Neerja”, you’ll journey back in time to 1986 as our brave protagonist, Neerja Bhanot, takes center stage. As the Pan Am Flight 73 faces a ruthless terrorist hijacking, Neerja’s courage and selflessness become the defining moments in her life.
23. Signature Move (2017)
In the 2017 heartwarming and unconventional comedy-drama “Signature Move,” we are introduced to Zaynab, a thirty-something lesbian Pakistani Muslim living in Chicago who is struggling to find her identity. However, her journey begins when she encounters Alma, a bold and vibrant Mexican woman, leading her on a life-changing path of self-discovery and personal growth. This uplifting and soulful film not only challenges traditional norms but also showcases the incredible power of love, family, and self-empowerment.
