The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards is one of Bollywood’s most prestigious platforms, celebrating excellence in Indian cinema on a global stage. With the star-studded event to take place this weekend, BizAsiaLive.com brings a special feature.
Over the past five years, several standout films have left an indelible mark, capturing the audience’s hearts and taking home top honours. Here’s a look at the top five films that dominated the IIFA Awards.
‘Gully Boy’ (2019)Directed by Zoya Akhtar, ‘Gully Boy’ was a trailblazer at the 2020 IIFA Awards, sweeping several major categories. Starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, this musical drama, inspired by the lives of Mumbai street rappers, struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. The film took home Best Film, Best Director for Zoya Akhtar, Best Actor for Ranveer Singh, and Best Actress for Alia Bhatt. The movie’s raw energy and powerful music made it one of Bollywood’s most celebrated films of recent years.
Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani in ‘Kabir Singh’
‘Kabir Singh’ (2019)‘Kabir Singh’, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, made waves at the 2020 IIFA Awards. The film, starring Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani, explored the emotional turmoil of a man grappling with heartbreak and addiction. Despite its controversial subject, it was lauded for Shahid’s powerful performance, which won him the IIFA Best Actor (Critics) award. The film’s success highlighted its mass appeal, making it one of the year’s biggest box-office hits.
‘Shershaah’ (2021)At the 2022 IIFA Awards, ‘Shershaah’, a biographical war drama based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, was the clear frontrunner. Starring Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, the film garnered praise for its emotional depth and patriotic narrative. It won Best Film, and Sidharth Malhotra took home the Best Actor award, cementing his place in the industry. The film’s depiction of bravery and sacrifice resonated deeply with audiences.
’83’ (2021)’83’, directed by Kabir Khan, was a massive hit at the 2023 IIFA Awards. The sports drama, which chronicles India’s historic 1983 Cricket World Cup win, starred Ranveer Singh as Kapil Dev. The film was lauded for its nostalgic appeal and Ranveer’s uncanny transformation into the cricket legend. It won Best Director for Kabir Khan, and Ranveer Singh earned the Best Actor award, adding another feather to his cap. The film’s patriotic theme and brilliant ensemble cast made it a crowd favourite.
Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in ‘Brahmastra’
‘Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva’ (2022)‘Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva’ was the talk of the 2023 IIFA Awards for its ambitious storytelling and spectacular visual effects. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, this fantasy action film, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, set a new benchmark for visual effects in Bollywood. The film’s innovative blend of mythology and modernity won it the Best Film (Technical Awards) and a slew of accolades for its technical achievements. Its massive fan following and the anticipation for its sequels ensured its success at the awards.
These five films represent the evolving landscape of Bollywood, blending mass appeal with critical acclaim. From hard-hitting dramas like ‘Gully Boy’ and ‘Kabir Singh’ to patriotic tales like ‘Shershaah’ and ’83’, and ambitious visual spectacles like ‘Brahmāstra’, these films have dominated the IIFA Awards, highlighting the diversity and creativity of Indian cinema over the past five years.
