As kids, most of us have been fascinated by tales of espionage. From the over-the-top exploits of spies, to the quieter, more under-the-radar actions of humble intelligence analysts, the genre has always been alluring. The spy genre is an incredibly versatile film style, which guarantees complete entertainment for the viewers. Over the years the Indian film industry has experimented with this genre and given us some blockbusters. Here is a list of five such movies that have gained success over time and have been huge box office hits:
Baby
A temporary task force is put together under the leadership of Feroz Ali in response to the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Their primary job is to find and eliminate terrorists who are planning attacks in India. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, Baby stars Akshay Kumar in the lead. The film also boasts of a stellar supporting star cast that includes Danny Denzongpa, Anupam Kher, Rana Daggubati, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Taapsee Pannu, Kay Kay Menon, Madhurima Tuli and Rasheed Naz who essay pivotal characters in the movie.
Ek Tha Tiger
Directed by Kabir Khan, Ek Tha Tiger is a movie that focuses on an Indian spy code-named Tiger (Salman Khan), who falls in love with a Pakistani undercover agent during an investigation in Dublin. While on his mission to observe an Indian scientist, who is suspected of sharing his research findings with Pakistan, Tiger falls in love with Zoya. The plot revolves around Tiger and Zoya’s journey as they fight against all odds to lead a happy life together.
The Hero: Love Story of a Spy
An Indian Hindi spy thriller film directed by Anil Sharma, The Hero: Love Story of a Spy is the story of Arjun Sharma who is a undercover agent working with RAW. Arjun sets up a spy network under the identity of Major Batra, with the objective of getting information regarding terrorist activities across the border. Arjun meets Reshma, a simple village girl who becomes a part of this network. He trains her for spying and they eventually fall in love. The movie stars Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta in lead roles and also mark the Bollywood debut of Priyanka Chopra.
Raazi
An adaptation of Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, Raazi is the story of an Indian spy who is married off to a Pakistani military officer prior to the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 with the intention of spying over the country’s defence system. Starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in the lead, the movie also features Rajit Kapur, Shishir Sharma, and Jaideep Ahlawat in supporting roles.
Spyder
An intelligence officer is put through his biggest test to survive, fight and save his city from a psychotic serial killer. Starring Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, the movie marks his Tamil debut and is a bilingual that also features Rakul Preet Singh and S.J. Suryah who plays the antagonist. Written and directed by the directorial mastermind A.R. Murugadoss, the film presents the perfect dose of entertainment with its unique blend of suspense, action and drama. Zee Cinema will showcase the premier of Spyder on Sunday, 17th June at 9pm.