The year 2014 in Bollywood was a fascinating paradox. It was dominated by big-budget, star-driven spectacles that filled cinema halls, yet, in hindsight, it was a single film celebrated for its originality that truly defined the year. While audiences flocked to see Salman Khan in Kick, Ajay Devgn in Singham Returns, Shah Rukh Khan in Happy New Year, and other major releases like Bang Bang, Holiday, and Ek Villain, it was Rajkumar Hirani's PK that emerged as the most memorable for its sheer freshness and unique narrative.
The Standout Performer: A Tale of an Alien
Amidst the familiar tropes of action and revenge, PK presented a bold and satirical take on societal norms and blind faith. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film featured Aamir Khan as a big-eared, saucer-eyed alien who lands on Earth. His journey of navigating human complexities and 'fixing' our world's troubles, while learning profound lessons himself, resonated deeply with critics and audiences alike. Its success proved that a novel concept could triumph over conventional star power.
A Year of Powerful Performances and Breakouts
Beyond the box office clashes, 2014 was also notable for its impactful performances and films that broke the mould. The industry witnessed a significant rise in compelling female-centric narratives. Priyanka Chopra delivered a powerful performance as the champion boxer in Omung Kumar's biopic Mary Kom, effectively silencing initial casting debates. Similarly, Rani Mukerji was widely praised for her role as a tough, uncompromising police officer in Pradeep Sarkar's Mardaani.
This was also a pivotal year for Alia Bhatt, whose career trajectory was forever changed by Imtiaz Ali's Highway. Starring opposite a terrific Randeep Hooda, Bhatt played a young woman on a transformative journey, a role that set her on a path to becoming one of Bollywood's most versatile and successful stars.
Other notable films included the quirky rom-com Hasee Toh Phasee, featuring Sidharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra as an unusual pair, and Vishal Bhardwaj's Kashmir-set adaptation of Hamlet, Haider, which provided Shahid Kapoor with one of the most critically acclaimed roles of his career.
The Undisputed Gems: Critically Acclaimed Cinema
While commercial films ruled the box office, 2014 also offered cinematic treasures for discerning viewers. Rajat Kapoor's Aankhon Dekhi, featuring a flawless performance by Sanjay Mishra, was a magnificent tale of belief and perception. The film, centered on a man who decides to trust only what he sees with his own eyes, is often regarded as an all-time favourite for its unique whimsy and depth.
Furthermore, Ashim Ahluwalia's Miss Lovely provided an unparalleled look into the gritty ecosystem of the C-grade sex-and-horror film industry of the 1980s. Created in a distinctly un-Bollywood style, it masterfully recreated a bygone era of parallel cinema.
In retrospect, 2014 serves as a reminder that while star power can guarantee initial success, it is innovation and storytelling courage that secure a lasting legacy in Indian cinema.
