Amir Khan is a very famous Bollywood actor, producer, and director. His newest film, “Talaash,” is already taking pre-orders for theater tickets months before its release. Many movie lovers in the U.S. have never heard of him, but Amir Khan stands the best chance out of all the other Bollywood greats at becoming a household name in the U.S.
Amir Khan Takes on Social Issues in His Films
When it comes to foreign films, Americans love watching social issues other countries face. Amir Khan likes to make those films. His early films were more Bollywood-esque, but his latest films take on political and social issues. “Rang De Basanti,” for example, is about a group of friends who fight against the government, but go about it in the wrong way. While some of his films revolve around issues pertinent to India, some take on issues that even Americans care about. “Like Stars on Earth” is about a dyslexic boy and his difficulty fitting in at school.
Amir Khan’s Films Have Already Earned Foreign Praise
“3 Idiots” is the highest-grossing Bollywood film of all time both nationally and internationally. “Like Stars on Earth” has the title “Taare Zameen Par” in India, but received an English translated title for U.S. DVD release because it was so popular. “Rang De Basanti” earned a BAFTA Best Foreign Language Film nomination. The film stirred up controversy in India, making the movie worth watching to find out why.
The Oscars Like Amir Khan
In the history of the Oscars, only three Bollywood films have ever earned a nomination. One of them was Amir Khan’s “Lagaan.” Khan starred in and produced the film. Maybe it earned a nomination because it took on a true, historical social issue, and is about sports, although the U.S. doesn’t play Cricket. Whatever the reason, “Lagaan” began Amir Khan’s quest for films that stand out from the rest of Bollywood.
Amir Khan Loves Silly Humor
The U.S. loves silly comedies, but not everyone loves the “stupid humor” that Hollywood provides the most. Khan loves being silly in his films, with hilarious songs or scenes, but he still interjects the social points. Khan has perfected mixing humor with drama. Many Hollywood dramas earn critical praise for the same thing.
Why Amir Khan Stands a Better Chance at U.S. Fame Over Other Bollywood Greats
The great Amitabh Bachchan has a role in “The Great Gatsby,” his first American film release of his career. Will he suddenly become famous in the U.S.? Probably not. Many consider Shah Rukh Khan the most famous man in the world, but do American’s rush to see his movies in theaters? No. SRK sticks to what Indians love. Even his films that take place in London or the U.S. have that Bollywood feel. Amir Khan’s films try to deviate from the Bollywood norm, and that might appeal more to U.S. moviegoers.
