Aug 30, 2024 | 00:00 EST
Cast: Salim Khan, Javed Akhtar, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Honey Irani, Shabana Azmi, Zoya Akhtar, Arbaaz Khan
Director: Namrata Rao
Genre: Documentary
Duration: 2 hours 16 minutes
Few names resonate as powerfully in the world of Indian cinema as Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar. The screenwriting duo, known collectively as Salim-Javed, redefined what it meant to tell a story on the silver screen. Angry Young Men, the latest docu-series streaming on Prime Video, delves deep into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of these two legendary writers, offering viewers an intimate look at how they revolutionized Hindi cinema.
The Perfect Script: A Story of Two Legends
Can a screenplay be perfect? Many would argue that Salim-Javed’s script of Deewaar comes close. But as Angry Young Men reveals, the true masterpiece is not just their scripts but the incredible journey of their lives. Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, two seemingly ordinary men, came together to create something extraordinary—a screenwriting legacy that would leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
The series begins by exploring how these two visionaries found each other and how their collaboration birthed some of the most iconic films of the 1970s and 80s. Films like Sholay, Deewaar, and Shaan are not just remembered for their stellar cast and direction but for the compelling stories that drove them—stories that could only have come from the minds of Salim-Javed.
Behind the Scenes: The Struggles and Successes
Director Namrata Rao expertly unravels the layers of Salim-Javed’s partnership, offering viewers a glimpse into the creative process that led to their monumental success. Through candid interviews with both Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, the docu-series highlights their struggles, their unyielding passion, and the sheer determination that propelled them to stardom.
One of the most compelling aspects of the series is the honesty with which the two men discuss their lives. They admit to their mistakes, acknowledge their arrogance, and openly talk about the challenges they faced, both personally and professionally. Their willingness to share their vulnerabilities adds depth to the narrative, making their story not just one of success but of perseverance and resilience.
A Cultural Phenomenon: Insights from the Film Industry
Angry Young Men is not just a tribute to Salim-Javed; it’s a comprehensive exploration of their impact on the Indian film industry. The docu-series features interviews with a wide range of personalities—from Bollywood superstars like Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan to filmmakers like Farhan Akhtar and Hrithik Roshan. These industry insiders offer their perspectives on why Salim-Javed’s work resonated so deeply with audiences and how it continues to influence cinema today.
What sets this series apart is its inclusion of voices beyond the usual suspects. Rao brings in the opinions of senior journalists, trade experts, and even common film buffs who lived through the era of Salim-Javed’s dominance. Their insights help paint a complete picture of the duo’s cultural significance, showing how their stories transcended the screen to become a part of India’s collective consciousness.
Emotional Depth: The Personal Lives of Salim-Javed
While Angry Young Men celebrates Salim-Javed’s professional achievements, it does not shy away from exploring their more personal lives. Javed Akhtar’s poignant reflections on his broken marriage and Salim Khan’s complicated relationship with Helen offer viewers a deeper understanding of the men behind the legends.
One of the most touching moments in the series comes when Javed Akhtar admits that even today, a fancy breakfast at a five-star hotel makes him uneasy—a stark reminder of his humble beginnings. Similarly, Salim Khan’s emotional recounting of losing his mother and reconciling with his strict father adds a layer of humanity to the story, reminding viewers that even the most successful people have their share of personal battles.
Why You Should Watch Angry Young Men
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a student of cinema, or simply a fan of classic Bollywood, Angry Young Men is a must-watch. The series offers invaluable insights into the world of screenwriting and filmmaking, showing how two men with a shared vision changed the course of Hindi cinema forever.
For those who grew up watching Salim-Javed’s films, this series is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of some of Bollywood’s most beloved movies. For younger viewers, it’s an eye-opening introduction to the genius of two writers who became legends in their own right.
In Angry Young Men, Namrata Rao has crafted a documentary that is both informative and deeply moving—a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar.