Bollywood has increasingly embraced women-led comedies, showcasing actresses' versatility and challenging traditional gender roles. Several such films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Zee5, offering a delightful cinematic experience. Here are some examples of women-centric comedies:
Crew (2024)
The recent release Crew, directed by Rajesh Krishnan, features Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon as air hostesses entangled in a gold smuggling racket. This comic caper balances humor and drama, celebrating friendship and sisterhood. Critics have praised the chemistry between the lead actresses and their individual performances. Kareena Kapoor Khan shines as the unapologetically ambitious Jasmine, while Tabu brings her usual brilliance as Geeta, caught between dreams and responsibilities. Kriti Sanon is commendable as Divya, navigating moral dilemmas. While some reviews point out a predictable plot and illogical scenes, Crew is generally considered an entertaining, light-hearted watch, driven by its engaging performances. The film is inspired by real-life events. The humor works mainly due to the impeccable comedy timing of the leading trio.
Tumhari Sulu (2017)
Tumhari Sulu, directed by Suresh Triveni, stars Vidya Balan as Sulochana (Sulu), a middle-class housewife who unexpectedly becomes a radio jockey. The film beautifully portrays Sulu's ambition, dreams, and struggles as she balances her newfound career with her family responsibilities. Balan's performance is widely praised for its charm and empathy, lifting the film with her portrayal of a spirited woman determined to shine. The film explores themes of self-discovery, marital dynamics, and societal expectations, all while maintaining a light-hearted and humorous tone. Manav Kaul, Neha Dhupia, and Vijay Maurya offer strong supporting performances, adding depth to Sulu's world. The film is available on Disney+ Hotstar.
Veere Di Wedding (2018)
Veere Di Wedding, directed by Shashanka Ghosh, revolves around four female friends attending a wedding and dealing with their respective relationship issues. Featuring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar, and Shikha Talsania, the film celebrates female friendship and tackles topics like love, commitment, and societal pressures. The movie is filled with humor and strong performances, making it an entertaining watch.
Mrs. Undercover
Starring Radhika Apte, Mrs. Undercover is a spy comedy where a housewife is a secret agent. The film follows her as she juggles her domestic duties with her undercover missions.
These films highlight the increasing prominence of women in Bollywood comedies, showcasing their ability to carry films and deliver engaging performances. They offer refreshing narratives that resonate with audiences, proving that women can excel in every genre and bring unique perspectives to the screen. With the rise of OTT platforms, these comedies are easily accessible, providing viewers with a diverse range of options for their entertainment needs.