Cinema Escapist
Explore and connect the world through a cinematic lens
NY Indian Film Festival 2020 Keeps Focus On Social Impact & India’s Diversity
BY The Editors
2020’s online New York Indian Film Festival features 12 features, 4 documentaries, and 30 shorts across 14 languages.
Review: “Article 15” Provides a Nuanced View of Caste Discrimination’s Effects in India
BY Arjun Baokar
Bollywood film "Article 15" displays a sobering perspective on casteism’s persistence despite the law banning it, but leans heavily into its savior complex.
The 13 Best Bollywood & Indian Movies on Netflix
BY The Editors
We reveal the top Bollywood (and other Indian) movies on Netflix—updated for 2020 and available in India, the US, the UK, and many other countries.
Review: Irrfan Khan’s “Blackmail” Is a Convoluted but Entertaining Ride to Depravity
BY Arjun Baokar
"Blackmail" uses the darkness in ordinary people to weave a riveting tale of deception where there can be no winners.
Review: “Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan” Tries to Tackle Homophobia in Light-Hearted Rom-Com
BY Srujana Yadlapalli
“Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan” appeals to the classic Bollywood audience while addressing a traditionally sensitive subject.
Review: “Chhapaak” Uses Acid Attacks to Highlight Victimization of Women in India
BY Srujana Yadlapalli
Based on a real story, "Chhapaak" shows the life of a young Indian woman after surviving an acid attack.
7 Space Movies From Around the World
BY Richard Yu
America isn't the only country that makes space exploration movies—here are seven movies that'll help you learn about other countries' space aspirations.
Review: “Oh Baby!” India’s “Miss Granny” Remake Is Faithful Yet Original
BY Akshay Suggula
“Oh Baby!” adapts Korean hit “Miss Granny” for Indian Telugu-language audiences—with a stellar performance from actress Samantha Akkineni.
Review: “Gully Boy” Is a Modern, Nuanced Depiction of Class Struggle Through Slum Life and Rap Music
BY Xingting Gong
Directed and written by Indian women, this film succeeds where Slumdog Millionaire fails
Remembering Sridevi: How India’s Most Famous Actress United North and South
BY Margaret Redlich
Superstar Sridevi Kapoor's death both bridges and highlights one of India's biggest cultural divides.