Where can I rent Bollywood films from?
A good resource to get Bollywood films online to rent is Netflix.com. If you are already a member, there are plenty of Bollywood films to take your pick from.
The best way is to rent online. You can rent from a local Indian video/grocery store, but usually they require you to buy a "block" of rentals at one time. Since you may not be sure you will like Bollywood, I would go the safe route and rent online first.
Not a member of Netflix? You can go to Eros Entertainment (look under 'pay per view' for Eros) and rent online that way. Or do a search..I am sure you will find other resources available to you.
Otherwise there will be one Bollywood movie that will probably be at your regular video store (Lagaan).
What are some good recommendations for a first time Bollywood viewer?
This can be a bit tricky. I will be the first to admit there are some Bollywood movies that will scare any first time viewers to the genre away. So I have come up with a list on my own of some of the best Bollywood movies there are for people to choose from. Once you have seen one or two and decide you like Bollywood, in your renting you will undoubtedly come across one you do not like. You will soon know what your tastes are and know what types of movies (and actors) you'd like to avoid. The list I have here are really solid entertaining movies that I think most people would enjoy.
Asoka
This movie is about the great king Asoka and follows his path from ruthless leader to a pacifist. This film is beautifully filmed, the cinematography is breathtaking.
Devdas
One of the most expensive Bollywood movies ever shot. The lavish sets and great music/choreography make this movie a treat for the senses.
Based upon a classic Indian tale this movie is about Devdas' return to his home after bein gone for years. He gets back in touch with his childhood girl friend Paro and their friendship (blossoming into romance) is frowned upon due to her family's "status".
This is Bollywood at it's ultimate: high drama and high emotion.
Dil Chahta Hai
This fresh comedy is a thoroughly modern film. It follows the relationship between 3 best male friends and the different roads in love they take and the affect their choices have on each other.
Kal Ho Naa Ho
This dramedy is set in New York City. It follows the tale of a man who moves into a neighborhood and proceeds to shake up the lives of those around him. A great film featuring a great soundtrack.
Lagaan
**This one should be at your local video store**
This Oscar nominated film for Best Foreign Picture takes place when Britain ruled over India. It is about a local group of Indians who finally find the courage to stand up against the unjustices being placed upon them and make a statement.
Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.
An underworld don who has been pretending to be a big city doctor to impress and fool his small town doctor father is found out. To try to redeem himself to his father, he enrolls in medical school to become the doctor he's only pretended to be. How this gangster fits into the medical program and turns it upside down is the plot of the movie. A very funny movie.
