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Saif Ali Khan Birthday Special: 5 Underrated Films of the Actor That Deserve Applause
Saif Ali Khan, a versatile actor hailing from the illustrious Pataudi background, has graced the silver screen with his charismatic presence and acting prowess. While he is often celebrated for his mainstream successes, it's crucial to acknowledge his exceptional performances in films that may not have received the spotlight they deserved. On the occasion of his 53rd birthday, let's recall his 5 films that deserved him much applause.
"Dil Chahta Hai," directed by Farhan Akhtar, is a seminal film that revolutionized Indian cinema. While Khan's performance as Sameer pales in comparison to some of his later works, his portrayal of the endearing yet slightly naive character added a refreshing layer to the movie's narrative. Often overshadowed by the film's ensemble cast and Aamir Khan's dynamic role, Saif's contribution remains one of the unsung highlights of the movie.
In this adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel, Saif Ali Khan stepped into the role of Girish, a dashing but misunderstood suitor. The film's lush visuals and timeless romance were brought to life by Khan's sincere performance. Amidst powerhouse performances by Vidya Balan and Sanjay Dutt, Khan's portrayal of the quiet and introspective Girish often goes unnoticed, despite being an integral part of the film's emotional journey.
Vishal Bhardwaj's adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello" in the Indian context resulted in the gripping drama "Omkara." Saif Ali Khan's portrayal of Langda Tyagi, a conniving and morally ambiguous character, was a revelation. Breaking away from his conventional roles, Khan showcased his ability to inhabit diverse characters with intensity and conviction. Despite garnering critical acclaim, "Omkara" didn't receive the commercial success it deserved, and Khan's exceptional performance often goes unnoticed.
Breaking barriers of genre and style, Saif Ali Khan's turn as Boris, a Russian mafia lord, in the zombie comedy "Go Goa Gone" remains a standout in his career. The film's eccentric premise and Khan's flawless comic timing showcased his versatility in a genre he had rarely explored. The film's cult status has grown over time, but it's still not as widely recognized as some of his more mainstream ventures.
"Kaalakaandi" presented Saif Ali Khan in an unconventional black comedy that explored the lives of disparate characters throughout one night in Mumbai. The film, directed by Akshat Verma, showcased Khan's impeccable comedic timing and his willingness to experiment with roles that stray from the mainstream. Though it received mixed reviews upon release, Saif's portrayal of a man diagnosed with terminal cancer navigating through an eventful night highlighted his versatility as an actor.
- PTC PUNJABI
