Indian cinema has long been a haven for action enthusiasts, evolving through the decades to deliver increasingly intense and sophisticated blockbusters. Lionsgate’s newest action movie Kill, which is out in theaters on July 4, 2024, is the latest addition to this legacy, pushing the boundaries of action and violence in ways previously unseen. Hence, let’s journey through the evolution of Indian action films and see how Kill stands out in this iconic lineage.
From Sholay to Kill, how Indian action movies have evolved
The 90s marked an inception era for Indian action cinema, with films like Sholay setting the standard. Larger-than-life heroes, intense hand-to-hand combat, and the liberal use of stunt doubles characterized this era. The action sequences, while thrilling, often relied on exaggerated drama and theatricality.
In films like Sholay, Kaala Patthar, and Dharam Veer, the action was more about the hero’s courage and the villain’s menace, often depicted through grandiose standoffs and daring rescues. Moreover, this period focused heavily on revenge, dacoits, and patriotism, embodying the classic good versus evil narrative.
Unlike the more theatrical and sometimes exaggerated action of the 90s, Kill opts for a raw and brutal approach. The film intensifies the action by confining it to claustrophobic spaces, making every fight scene feel immediate and visceral.
Indian action movie scene in the 2000s
The 2000s brought a significant shift in the Indian action movie scene. Films like Dhoom, Lakshya, Ghajini, and Gangs of Wasseypur introduced a new level of sophistication and variety to the genre. No longer confined to the themes of dacoits and patriotism, these movies explored diverse crime-related plots, from heists to psychological thrillers.
Dhoom introduced sleek, high-octane chases and focused on style, while Lakshya offered a more realistic portrayal of military life. On the other hand, Ghajini introduced the concept of a flawed hero with a personal vendetta, and Gangs of Wasseypur delved deep into the gritty, raw world of gang warfare. These films started incorporating better CGI, intricate choreography, and complex storylines, reflecting the audience’s changing tastes. Additionally, the Don and Singham film franchises further diversified the action genre.
Kill shares the gritty realism of Gangs of Wasseypur and the intense personal stakes of Ghajini, but it goes a step further by depicting violence in an even more graphic and unflinching manner. Today’s Indian action movies have split into two distinct styles: CGI-heavy films and gritty, realistic dramas.
On one end of the spectrum, films like Salaar, RRR, Pathaan, and Leo showcase grandiose, visually stunning sequences that rely heavily on CGI to create larger-than-life films. Conversely, movies like Aavesham, Kantara, and Jigarthanda Double X focus on more grounded, realistic action yet stylized.
Kill is the latest addition to the Indian action movie genre
Kill’s blend of traditional action tropes with contemporary storytelling techniques sets it apart from its predecessors. The film employs an unexpected narrative, adding layers of complexity and suspense. The action sequences, while paying homage to the stylized fights of earlier decades, are infused with realism and brutality that cater to modern sensibilities.
Using cutting-edge foley and practical visual effects enhances the film, making every punch, slash, and burn feel impactful—just like contemporary John Wick-esque gore. Kill features Lakshya as Amrit, an army man fighting not only for his love but also against a group of dacoits led by Fani, played by Raghav Juyal.
Critics have praised Kill for its unflinching portrayal of violence. The film pushes the envelope with graphic depictions of combat, setting it apart from more stylized and sanitized Indian action films so far. Besides, the film’s confined setting forces the characters and the audience to focus intensely on the immediate action.
Lionsgate’s new movie continues the legacy of Indian action movies by bringing something new and daring to the table. Its brutal, unflinching approach to violence, combined with a heartfelt story, makes it likely that it will become a cult classic, possibly setting a new standard for what Indian action movies can achieve.
