5 Underrated Anurag Kashyap Movies That Will Remind Bollywood What They Lost
Anurag Kashyap, the maverick filmmaker, has relocated from Mumbai to Bangalore, citing Bollywood’s toxic environment and the industry’s obsession with profit. The news of the director who reshaped Indian cinema with his gritty, unconventional storytelling, leaving Bollywood, comes as a heartbreak for fans who admired his fearless approach to filmmaking. In a heartfelt statement, Kashyap expressed his frustration with the industry’s current state, lamenting how creativity has taken a backseat to box office numbers. “I no longer recognize the industry I once loved,” he confessed, revealing his disappointment with Bollywood’s increasing excessive dependence on commercial interests.
For over two decades, Kashyap has known for his bold storytelling, giving Indian cinema some of its most unforgettable films. His departure is not just a personal decision, but a reflection of the struggles faced by independent filmmakers in an industry that prioritizes mass appeal over artistic integrity. As he moves on to seek creative fulfilment elsewhere, it is worth revisiting some of the best yet underrated Anurag Kashyap movies that have left a lasting impact.
Ugly (2013) – A Portrait of Human Greed and Desperation
Ugly is not just a thriller; it’s an unfiltered glimpse into the darkest corners of human nature. The film follows the kidnapping of a young girl, but instead of focusing solely on the crime, Kashyap delves into the selfishness, deceit, and opportunism that arise in the wake of the tragedy. The film’s raw and realistic portrayal of flawed human beings makes it one of Kashyap’s finest works. Yet, despite critical acclaim, it never got the widespread recognition it deserved. Perhaps its unrelenting cynicism and refusal to provide easy answers kept mainstream audiences at bay. But for those who have watched it, “Ugly” remains a deeply creepy, unsettling and unforgettable experience.
Kaun (1999) – A Minimalist Masterpiece in Suspense
Though directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Kaun carries Anurag Kashyap’s signature as its screenwriter. The film’s brilliance lies in its simplicity – a woman alone at home during a stormy night, a knock on the door, and a stranger claiming to seek shelter. What follows is an unpredictable psychological rollercoaster that keeps the audience on edge till the final frame. The film’s claustrophobic setting, minimal characters, and tight screenplay prove that a good movie doesn’t need big sets or elaborate action sequences. Despite its brilliance, “Kaun” remains a hidden gem in Indian cinema, overshadowed by more conventional thrillers. Among all of Anurag Kashyap movies, this one is truly among the best and underrated.
Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016) – A Terrifying Dive into a Killer’s Mind
Inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav, this neo-noir thriller is one of Kashyap’s most disturbing yet captivating films. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers an unforgettably chilling performance as a deranged murderer, while Vicky Kaushal portrayed a deeply flawed and toxic cop. What makes Raman Raghav 2.0 unique is its refusal to paint characters in black and white. Instead, it explores the thin line between good and evil, showing how deeply flawed even those on the good side of the law can be. The film received critical appreciation, but sadly, even after so many years, its unsettling themes still has kept it from reaching a wider audience.
Black Friday (2004) – A Hard-Hitting Depiction of a Dark Chapter
Black Friday is not just a film; it’s an act of fearless storytelling. Based on Hussain Zaidi’s book about the 1993 Bombay bombings, Kashyap presents a meticulous and unflinching reconstruction of the events. The film doesn’t rely on melodrama or emotional manipulation; instead, it presented us a journalistic, almost documentary-like approach to narrating one of India’s most devastating tragedies. The film was delayed for years due to legal troubles, and by the time it was released, its commercial potential had been affected. Yet, Black Friday remains one of the most powerful Indian films ever made, showcasing Kashyap’s courage in taking on sensitive subjects without compromise.
No Smoking (2007) – A Misunderstood Satire on Censorship
No Smoking is perhaps the most misunderstood among all of Anurag Kashyap movies. On the surface, it tells the story of K, a narcissistic chain-smoker who enrols in a rehabilitation program after his wife threatens to divorce him. He meets Baba Bengali, a strange “healer” who enforces quitting through absurd and terrifying methods. But beneath the literal narrative, No Smoking is a satire on government censorship and the loss of personal freedom. The film uses multiple symbolisms to question how much control authorities should have over individual choices.
Ironically, the Indian government mistakenly viewed the movie as an anti-smoking campaign and even awarded Kashyap for promoting public health. The irony was not lost on the filmmaker, who later revealed that he was amused by the misinterpretation. No Smoking was widely rejected by audiences upon its release, but over the years, it has started to gain a cult following among cinephiles who appreciate its psychological elements and layered storytelling.
A Legacy That Lives On
Anurag Kashyap’s departure from Bollywood is undoubtedly a loss for them. His journey has been defined by an unflinching commitment to storytelling that dares to challenge, question, and provoke. While the industry may continue on its path of commercial blockbusters and safe narratives, these 5 Anurag Kashyap movies and more like these will always serve as a reminder of what cinema can achieve when it refuses to conform.
