Amitabh Bachchan, known as the “Shahenshah” (Emperor) of Bollywood, is an icon of Indian cinema. His versatility, charismatic presence, and ability to embody a wide range of characters have earned him a legacy that spans over five decades. From intense action roles to heartwarming dramas, Bachchan’s filmography is rich with performances that have shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. Below are ten must-watch films that showcase his immense talent and his journey as one of the greatest actors of all time.
1. Sholay (1975)
One of the most iconic films in Indian cinema, Sholay is a milestone not just for Amitabh Bachchan but for Bollywood as a whole. Directed by Ramesh Sippy, Sholay is a sprawling action-adventure film about two small-time criminals, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra), hired by a retired policeman to capture a ruthless dacoit named Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan).
Bachchan’s portrayal of Jai, the quieter and more brooding half of the duo, is one of his most understated yet powerful performances. His camaraderie with Dharmendra’s character, the emotional depth in his love story with Radha (played by Jaya Bhaduri), and his stoic bravery in the face of danger all combine to make his performance unforgettable.
Sholay is considered one of the greatest Bollywood films of all time, and Bachchan’s portrayal of Jai remains etched in the memories of audiences. The film’s blend of action, drama, and humor continues to inspire generations of filmmakers.
2. Deewaar (1975)
Released the same year as Sholay, Deewaar cemented Amitabh Bachchan’s status as the “Angry Young Man” of Bollywood. Directed by Yash Chopra, the film tells the story of two brothers on opposite sides of the law. Bachchan plays Vijay, a smuggler who has grown up in the slums, fighting his way to the top of the criminal world, while his brother Ravi (played by Shashi Kapoor) becomes a police officer.
Bachchan’s portrayal of Vijay is a masterclass in intensity and emotion. His brooding presence, combined with his inner turmoil and defiance of authority, made the character of Vijay one of the most memorable in Indian cinema. The film’s dialogues, particularly the famous line “Mere paas maa hai” (I have my mother), have become iconic in Bollywood culture.
Deewaar is a landmark film that reflects the socio-economic struggles of the time, and Bachchan’s portrayal of a conflicted anti-hero made him the voice of a generation.
3. Zanjeer (1973)
The film that truly marked the beginning of Amitabh Bachchan’s rise to superstardom, Zanjeer was directed by Prakash Mehra and established the “Angry Young Man” persona that Bachchan would become synonymous with. Bachchan plays Vijay Khanna, an honest and tough police officer seeking revenge against a crime lord who murdered his parents.
Zanjeer was a departure from the romantic heroes of the 1960s, and Bachchan’s portrayal of a man driven by vengeance resonated with audiences in a way that few films had before. His intensity, smoldering anger, and commitment to justice made the character of Vijay iconic, and the film was a turning point not just for Bachchan’s career but for the action genre in Bollywood.
The film’s success paved the way for a new era of Hindi cinema, with Amitabh Bachchan at the forefront as the face of the angry, disillusioned hero fighting against a corrupt system.
4. Piku (2015)
In Piku, Amitabh Bachchan takes on a more nuanced, character-driven role, showcasing his ability to adapt to contemporary cinema while retaining his immense screen presence. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, Piku is a heartwarming, slice-of-life film about the relationship between an eccentric, hypochondriac father, Bhashkor Banerjee (Bachchan), and his daughter, Piku (Deepika Padukone).
Bachchan’s portrayal of Bhashkor is filled with humor, quirks, and vulnerability. His comic timing is impeccable, yet he also brings depth to the character’s dependence on his daughter and his fear of old age. His performance is both hilarious and touching, making Bhashkor one of his most memorable characters in recent years.
Piku is a beautiful exploration of familial bonds, and Bachchan’s portrayal of a cantankerous yet endearing father forms the emotional heart of the film. It is a testament to his versatility and ability to shine in roles that demand subtlety and restraint.
5. Don (1978)
In Don, Bachchan delivers one of his most stylish and charismatic performances. Directed by Chandra Barot, Don tells the story of a ruthless underworld kingpin, Don, and a simpleton named Vijay, who is hired by the police to impersonate Don after his death.
Bachchan’s dual roles as both Don and Vijay showcase his versatility as an actor. As Don, he exudes a suave, cold-blooded charm, while as Vijay, he displays warmth, innocence, and humor. The film’s gripping plot, coupled with Bachchan’s magnetic screen presence, made Don a massive success, and the character of Don became one of the most iconic in Bollywood history.
The film’s catchy songs, memorable dialogues, and action-packed sequences only add to its appeal. Don remains a cult classic, and Bachchan’s performance is one of the reasons it has endured over the years.
6. Agneepath (1990)
Agneepath is one of Amitabh Bachchan’s most intense and emotionally charged films. Directed by Mukul S. Anand, the film tells the story of Vijay Deenanath Chauhan, a man who seeks vengeance for his father’s murder and rises through the criminal underworld to achieve his goals.
Bachchan’s portrayal of Vijay is raw, fierce, and powerful. His deep, gravelly voice, which was a departure from his usual tone, added a layer of gravitas to the character. The film’s iconic line, “Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, poora naam,” has become etched in Bollywood lore, and Bachchan’s performance earned him a National Film Award for Best Actor.
Agneepath is a gritty, dark film that explores themes of revenge, power, and redemption, and Bachchan’s towering performance as the tragic hero is at the heart of the film’s enduring popularity.
7. Anand (1971)
Before he became the “Angry Young Man,” Amitabh Bachchan starred in Anand, a film that showcased his ability to portray sensitivity and emotional depth. Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Anand is the story of a terminally ill patient, Anand (Rajesh Khanna), who spreads joy and positivity despite his illness, and his close friendship with his doctor, Dr. Bhaskar (Amitabh Bachchan).
Bachchan’s portrayal of Dr. Bhaskar, a serious and introspective man, serves as the perfect foil to Khanna’s exuberant Anand. The film explores the themes of life, death, and friendship, and Bachchan’s understated performance complements the film’s emotional core.
Anand is one of the most beloved films in Bollywood, and while Rajesh Khanna’s performance as the title character is the focal point, Bachchan’s role as the melancholic doctor adds depth to the narrative. His performance in the film earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor.
8. Black (2005)
In Black, Amitabh Bachchan delivers one of the most challenging and poignant performances of his career. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film tells the story of a deaf-blind girl, Michelle (Rani Mukerji), and her relationship with her teacher, Debraj Sahai (Bachchan), who helps her navigate the world despite her disabilities.
Bachchan’s portrayal of Debraj is intense and moving. His character is a man struggling with his own demons while determined to help Michelle achieve independence. Bachchan’s performance is filled with emotional depth, and his portrayal of a mentor who refuses to give up on his student is inspiring and heart-wrenching.
Black earned Bachchan numerous accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Actor. The film is a visually stunning and emotionally charged drama, and Bachchan’s performance remains one of the most critically acclaimed of his career.
9. Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
Amar Akbar Anthony is a quintessential Bollywood masala film, blending comedy, drama, action, and romance. Directed by Manmohan Desai, the film tells the story of three brothers, Amar (Vinod Khanna), Akbar (Rishi Kapoor), and Anthony (Amitabh Bachchan), who are separated in childhood and raised in different religious households, only to reunite as adults.
Bachchan’s portrayal of Anthony Gonsalves, the Catholic brother, is one of his most beloved comedic performances. His impeccable comic timing, combined with his larger-than-life screen presence, made the character of Anthony an instant favorite among audiences. The famous “My name is Anthony Gonsalves” scene, in which Bachchan emerges from a giant egg, remains one of the most iconic moments in Bollywood history.
Amar Akbar Anthony is a joyous celebration of Indian unity and diversity, with Amitabh Bachchan’s performance as Anthony being one of the film’s highlights. His ability to seamlessly switch between comedy, drama, and action makes this role one of his most versatile and memorable. The film’s larger-than-life characters, colorful sequences, and memorable songs have made Amar Akbar Anthony a cult classic that still resonates with audiences today.
10. Paa (2009)
In Paa, Amitabh Bachchan delivers one of his most transformative performances, playing a character vastly different from anything he had portrayed before. Directed by R. Balki, Paa tells the story of a boy named Auro, who suffers from a rare genetic disorder called progeria, which causes him to age prematurely. Despite his appearance, Auro is a 12-year-old with the innocence, humor, and curiosity of a child.
Bachchan’s portrayal of Auro is a remarkable achievement in acting. His ability to embody the physicality and emotional depth of a child while buried under heavy makeup is a testament to his talent and dedication. He brings a sense of playfulness, vulnerability, and resilience to the role, making Auro a character that tugs at the heartstrings.
Paa is not just a film about a rare medical condition; it’s a story about familial relationships, love, and acceptance. Bachchan’s performance as Auro earned him numerous awards, including the National Film Award for Best Actor. His transformation into a child, both physically and emotionally, is a career-defining moment that highlights his ability to take on any role, no matter how challenging.
Conclusion
Amitabh Bachchan’s illustrious career is filled with unforgettable performances across various genres, from intense dramas and action-packed thrillers to heartwarming family films and comedic masterpieces. The ten films listed above represent a fraction of the iconic roles that have solidified his place as one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema.
Each of these movies showcases a different facet of Bachchan’s talent, whether it’s his intensity as the “Angry Young Man” in Deewaar and Zanjeer, his comic brilliance in Amar Akbar Anthony, or his emotional depth in Black and Paa. Through these films, Amitabh Bachchan has not only entertained generations of audiences but also shaped the course of Bollywood itself.
For anyone looking to explore the best of Indian cinema, these ten films are essential viewing. They offer a comprehensive look at the extraordinary range and versatility of Amitabh Bachchan, whose legacy continues to inspire and influence actors and filmmakers around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, these movies are sure to leave a lasting impact and provide a deep appreciation for one of the greatest actors of all time.