33 Years of #Shiva (07/12/1990)

33 Years of #Shiva (07/12/1990).

Ramgopal Varma’s “Shiva” stands as a significant milestone in Indian cinema, mainly due to its pioneering approach in various aspects of filmmaking. One of the most notable contributions of “Shiva” was its innovative cinematography and sound design, which were quite ahead of their time in the Indian context. The film broke new ground with its realistic and unorthodox visual storytelling, coupled with groundbreaking camera work, setting a new benchmark in the industry. Additionally, “Shiva” was instrumental in introducing fresh talent, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, aiding in the launch of several notable careers in Indian cinema.

Another key aspect where “Shiva” left its mark was in its portrayal of violence. Unlike the stylized and often exaggerated action scenes common in Indian films of that era, “Shiva” presented violence in a more realistic and gritty manner, influencing the way action sequences were handled in subsequent Indian movies. Alongside its technical prowess, the film was also acclaimed for its strong narrative and well-rounded character development. Moving away from the melodramatic norms of the time, it focused more on creating relatable characters and engaging storylines. This shift not only enriched the film’s appeal but also had a lasting impact on the narrative styles of Indian cinema. In essence, “Shiva” is often regarded as a turning point in the Indian film industry, marking the beginning of a new era, especially in the action and crime genres, and has influenced a generation of filmmakers.

Directed by: Ram Gopal Varma
Written by: Ram Gopal Varma, Iqbal Durrani (dialogues)
Cinematography: S. Gopal Reddy
Starring: #Nagarjuna, Amala, J. D. Chakravarthy & Raghuvaran
Songs by: Ilaiyaraaja & Majrooh Sultanpuri.