Review: 'Angry Young Men: The Salim-Javed Story' celebrates the iconic duo infused with nostalgia & anecdotes

Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, "Angry Young Men: The Salim-Javed Story" is more than just a documentary; it’s a journey into the golden era of Hindi cinema. The three-part series offers an unflinching look at the lives and careers of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, the legendary screenwriting duo who redefined storytelling in Bollywood. Directed by Namrata Rao, this docuseries transcends the usual puff pieces often seen in Indian film retrospectives, instead providing a raw, insightful, and riveting exploration of both the triumphs and tribulations of these two cinema giants.

A Nostalgic Ride Through the Glorious 70s and 80s

The series takes viewers back to a time when Salim-Javed's scripts were nothing short of revolutionary. As we dive into the archives, the aura of their work envelops us, reminding us of an era when their stories didn’t just entertain but also resonated deeply with the socio-political climate of the time. The docuseries carefully chronicles their rise to fame, beginning with their early struggles in Mumbai, leading to their meteoric rise as the most sought-after screenwriters in the industry. Their iconic films like Zanjeer, Sholay, and Deewar not only cemented Amitabh Bachchan's status as the 'angry young man' of Bollywood but also established the duo as superstars in their own right.

Insightful Revelations and Unseen Footage

What sets "Angry Young Men" apart is its commitment to authenticity. It doesn’t shy away from asking the tough questions or exploring the more controversial aspects of Salim-Javed’s career. Interviews with industry stalwarts such as Jaya Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, and Hrithik Roshan provide fascinating insights into the duo's professional dynamics and the impact of their work. The inclusion of family members like Salman Khan and Farhan Akhtar adds a personal touch, offering a glimpse into the lives of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar beyond the silver screen.

The Rise and Fall of a Legendary Partnership

One of the most compelling aspects of the series is how it delves into the rise and eventual split of Salim-Javed. Rao doesn’t romanticize their journey; instead, she presents a balanced narrative that acknowledges both their genius and their flaws. The second episode, in particular, is a deep dive into their creative process, revealing how their unique talents complemented each other—Salim’s knack for crafting powerful stories and Javed’s brilliance with dialogue.

Their decision to demand a fee higher than that of the stars of their films, including Amitabh Bachchan, speaks volumes about the power they wielded in the industry. Yet, this power also came with its own set of challenges, leading to tension and ultimately, their separation in 1982. The series handles this aspect of their story with sensitivity, making it clear that while their partnership may have ended, their impact on Indian cinema is indelible.

A Tribute to the Icons, Warts and All

What makes this docuseries truly remarkable is its refusal to gloss over the less flattering aspects of Salim-Javed's legacy. It tackles the sexism present in some of their scripts, their arrogance at the height of their success, and even their willingness to borrow ideas.

The candidness extends to their personal lives as well. Javed Akhtar’s reflections on his broken marriage and Salim Khan’s complex relationship with Helen provide a rare glimpse into the private struggles that shaped their public personas.

The Verdict

"Angry Young Men" isn’t just a documentary; it’s a living history of Bollywood, narrated by those who were there when it all happened. The series draws from a wide array of voices, from seasoned actors and filmmakers to journalists, trade experts, and even everyday cinema lovers, all of whom share their perspectives on why Salim-Javed became cultural icons. This inclusivity is one of the series' greatest strengths, offering a 360-degree view of the duo’s impact on the industry.

Rating

***1/2 (3.5/5) stars