Angry Young Men: Nostalgia Served, But No New Stories Told

Salim Javed need no introduction to a Bollywood buff. Their scripts and dialogues are still referenced four decades post their split. Sholay (1975), Zanjeer (1973), Deewaar (1975), Don (1978), Trishul (1978) and Mr. India (1987) remain a part of our pop culture. So a docu-series on these legends is a welcome decision.

Sadly, the three episode series offers nothing new or extra to their fans than what they already know through written and visual material. It's kinda disheartening that a series produced by Salim Javed's own chidren (Salman Khan and Farhan Akhtar), isn't able to tell us anything more than what we know.

To be fair, the writer-duo's humble beginning makes for an interesting trivia. Salim Saahab looks superb in his few films, where he portrayed the lead hero before taking to pen and paper. Javed openly regretting his split with first wifey Honey, is heartfelt and bold.

But from their professional career point of view, the series falls seriously short. Rightfully, biggies like Sholay, Don, Zanjeer and Deewaar get maximum coverage. But what about their other significant contributions to Bollywood like Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1974), Chacha Bhatija (1977), Haath Ki Safai (1974), Shakti (1982), Kaala Patthar (1979) and Mr. India (1987)? They are not covered at all. Zoya Akhtar wrongly informs us in their career of twenty four films, Salim Javed delivered only two duds. It is actually three: Aakhri Daao (1975), Immaan Dharam (1977) and Zamana (1985).

At the end of its third episode, Angry Young Men leaves you highly nostalgic. But it doesn't add to your knowledge in any manner...

#SNRating for #AngryYoungMen : 2 stars out of 5.

- Sumeet Nadkarni

#SNRatings barometer:
1 star = Poor
1 & 1/2 star = Below average/ Avoidable
2 stars = Average
2 & 1/2 stars = Above average/ Risk it
3 stars = Good enough/ Endurable
3 & 1/2 stars = Definitely worth a watch
4 stars = Very good
5 stars = Masterpiece/ Outstanding.

2024 SNRatings.

About Sumeet Nadkarni:

Sumeet Nadkarni is a Chartered Accountant by profession and a self-styled film critic by passion. He reviews Bollywood movies and OTT releases on his popular personal blog #SNRatings. His film-related articles have appeared in leading publications in India. With a keen eye for cinematic detail and a knack for insightful critiques, Sumeet brings a unique perspective to the world of Indian cinema. Follow him for the latest Bollywood insights and unbiased film reviews. #FilmCritique #BollywoodReviewer

 Also Read: Prime Video launches a special roundtable with Salim-Javed, hosted by Farah Khan