"MURDER" is an Indian Hindi-language erotic thriller film directed by Anurag Basu and released in 2004. The movie features Emraan Hashmi, Mallika Sherawat, and Ashmit Patel in lead roles.
The film tells the story of a man named Sudhir (played by Ashmit Patel), who is in a loveless marriage with his wife, Simran (played by Mallika Sherawat). Sudhir begins an affair with his wife's best friend, Kiran (played by Sherawat), and they embark on a passionate and dangerous relationship.
Things take a deadly turn when Sudhir is found murdered in his home, and all the evidence points towards Kiran as the prime suspect. The movie then revolves around the police investigation to uncover the truth behind Sudhir's murder, and the complicated relationships between the main characters.
The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some praising the performances of the lead actors and the suspenseful plot, while others criticized its explicit sexual content and lack of originality. Nevertheless, it was a commercial success and became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of 2004.
In addition to its box office success, "MURDER" also gained attention for its controversial content. The film's sexual themes and explicit scenes were considered bold and taboo-breaking for Bollywood at the time, and it sparked debates about censorship and morality in Indian cinema.
Despite the controversies, "MURDER" helped to establish the careers of its lead actors, Emraan Hashmi and Mallika Sherawat, who became popular stars in the years following the film's release. The film also marked a turning point for director Anurag Basu, who went on to direct critically acclaimed films such as "Life in a Metro" and "Barfi!".
In 2014, a sequel to the film, titled "MURDER 2", was released, which featured Emraan Hashmi in a leading role. The sequel was also a commercial success, but it received mixed reviews from critics.
"MURDER" remains a significant film in the history of Bollywood cinema, and its impact on the industry and popular culture in India is still felt today.
The film's success paved the way for more erotic thrillers in Indian cinema, which became a popular genre in the following years. However, it also faced criticism for its portrayal of women and its emphasis on male gaze, with many critics arguing that the film objectified its female characters.
Despite the controversy, the film's soundtrack, composed by Anu Malik, became very popular, and several songs from the movie, such as "Bheege Hont Tere" and "Dil Ko Hazar Bar", continue to be popular among Bollywood music fans.
"MURDER" remains a landmark film in Bollywood cinema for its bold approach to erotic themes and its impact on the industry. While it may have its flaws, it is still remembered for its performances, music, and its contribution to the evolution of Indian cinema.
In addition to its impact on Indian cinema, "MURDER" also gained international attention and helped to introduce Bollywood to a wider audience. The film was screened at several film festivals, including the Cannes Film Festival, where it was one of the first Indian films to be shown in the market section.
The success of "MURDER" also paved the way for more collaborations between its director, Anurag Basu, and actor Emraan Hashmi, who went on to work together on several other films, including "Gangster" and "The Dirty Picture".
"MURDER" is a film that remains relevant in popular culture, and its impact on Indian cinema and society is still being debated today. It is a film that helped to break taboos and challenge traditional norms in Bollywood, and it will always be remembered as a bold and daring film that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in Indian cinema.
Despite the controversies and debates surrounding the film, "MURDER" has become a cult classic and a defining movie of its era. It continues to be remembered and discussed for its unique place in Indian cinema history.
Moreover, "MURDER" marked a turning point in the career of its lead actor Emraan Hashmi, who went on to become one of the most popular actors in Bollywood with his unconventional looks and bold on-screen performances. The film also gave a significant boost to the career of Mallika Sherawat, who became known for her bold and glamorous image in Indian cinema.
In conclusion, "MURDER" is a film that has left a lasting impact on Indian cinema and culture. It challenged the norms and stereotypes of Bollywood and sparked debates about censorship, morality, and artistic freedom. While it may not be a film for everyone, it remains an important part of Indian cinema history and a testament to the power of cinema to push boundaries and spark conversation.