Main content

Indian Blockbusters

Inspired by the record-breaking success of huge action epic RRR, Ellen and Mark explore contemporary Indian cinema, with the help of some of its key players.

Inspired by the record-breaking success of huge action epic RRR, Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode explore the global popularity of contemporary Indian cinema, with the help of some of its key players.

Ellen takes a closer look at the box office smash that is RRR. She talks to the film's director SS Rajamouli, who is responsible for three of the top five highest-grossing Indian films of all time. They discuss Rajamouli's role in the Pan-Indian Cinema movement and why he thinks RRR has become such a hit across the world.

And Mark, with the help of British-Tamil film critic Ashanti Omkar and superstar composer AR Rahman, investigates how Indian cinema has gone global over the last two decades and asks whether it might be time to retire the term 'Bollywood'.

Also, actor Nikesh Patel, star of hit romcom Starstruck, shares what he's been watching recently.

Producer: Jane Long
Editorial Consultant: Ashanti Omkar
A Prospect Street production for Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

Available now

42 minutes

Last on

Fri 23 Sep 2022 19:15

Broadcast

  • Fri 23 Sep 2022 19:15

Which films and TV inspired Netflix hits Bridgerton and Squid Game?

Which films and TV inspired Netflix hits Bridgerton and Squid Game?

Screenshot explores the connections between today’s streaming hits.

Why did the erotic thriller run out of steam?

Why did the erotic thriller run out of steam?

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode explore cinema's steamiest genre.

How did method acting become so extreme?

How did method acting become so extreme?

A historical timeline of the sometimes bizarre technique.

Why going to the cinema is good for you

Why going to the cinema is good for you

Going to the movies isn’t just for fun – it benefits your mind, body and soul. Here’s why

Podcast