Sanjay Leela Bhansali films are some of the highest-grossing movies in Bollywood history. Although the casting and storylines cannot be undermined, it is usually the set design and cinematography that draws so many people to the theatre.
Anyone who has had any sort of exposure to Bollywood would recognise Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s work. The director has cemented his title in the industry as one of the most successful and sought-after directors, with his films breaking box office records and huge stars constantly knocking on his door for opportunities.
His films have always followed the theme of classic cinema with the location choice, costume, set design and overall lavish aesthetic. This, and so much more, has contributed to the immense popularity of his films and his ongoing success as a film maker.
Being a huge fan of SLB films myself, I have watched a number of his recent works in the cinema. This includes Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015) and the most recent, Padmaavat (2018). Although these films and the incredible work put into it can be appreciated in any medium, watching it in the cinema is a whole other experience.
The incredible sets coupled with the explosion of colours all accompanied by the music transcend you, as an audience member, into the mind of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. By the end, you are left enthralled, captivated and distraught as his work is known to not always have the happily ever after most Bollywood films deliver.
He is also well-known for his casting choices which always manage to be the most talented and beautiful artists in the industry who fit right in with the overall artistic appeal of signature Bhansali work.
One of his most popular pairing has been Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, who first worked together in SLB’s 2016 hit Ram-Leela. The chemistry between the pair proved to be so electric that Bhansali cast them for his next two films which also, unsurprisingly, went on to become huge box office hits.
The secret to their chemistry turned out to be the fact that they had actually been dating in real life since the filming of Ram-Leela and recently got married in November 2018.
At a recent award show, when accepting his award for Best Actor in Padmavaat, Ranveer Singh took to the stage to thank Sanjay Leela Bhansali for not only shaping him as an actor but also being the reason Singh met his wife.
It’s clear Bhansali’s work has had a massive impact on all those involved, including the actors and, especially, the audience who witness his final craft and watch his incredible vision come to life.
Check out the trailers for Bhansali’s latest works below and let us know what you think in the comments.