Netflix’s Modern Masters: S. S. Rajamouli debuted on August 2, 2024, giving the first-ever sneak peek into the influential career of one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated directors. Produced in collaboration with Applause Entertainment and Film Companion Studios, this documentary, directed by Raghav Khanna, is part of Netflix’s Modern Masters series. It offers an extensive look into S. S. Rajamouli’s rise from an aspiring filmmaker to a global cinema icon.
The documentary features S.S. Rajamouli’s innovative contributions to film, particularly his work on globally popular films like Baahubali and RRR. Featuring interviews with industry giants like James Cameron and Joe Russo, as well as Indian stars such as Prabhas and Ram Charan, it provides an insightful view of Rajamouli’s impact on cinema.
All in all, Netflix’s latest documentary provides viewers with a personal experience of what it’s like to be in the shoes of the said person. Hence, here’s a list of documentary movies and series, that offer a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes, professions, and struggles of those known and unknown.
The Romantics
Streaming On: Netflix
The Romantics is a documentary that pays homage to the legacy of Yash Chopra, one of Bollywood’s most iconic filmmakers. The four-episode series features interviews with over 35 industry icons, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Rani Mukerji, who share their experiences working with YRF. Furthermore, it also features his son, Aditya Chopra, who never before gave an interview.
In detail, it explores Chopra’s immense impact on Indian cinema, highlighting his romantic films that have defined generations. All in all, this documentary offers an intimate look at the man behind the romance, just like Netflix’s Modern Masters: S. S. Rajamouli.
Cinema Marte Dum Tak
Streaming On: Amazon Prime Video
Cinema Marte Dum Tak is a documentary series directed by Vasan Bala, exploring the world of 90s pulp cinema in India. It reveals the passion, creativity, and resilience of filmmakers in the B-grade film industry who created iconic films on minimal budgets. The series features interviews with directors, actors, and crew members, combined with archival footage, offering a nostalgic look at sensational cinema. Netflix’s Modern Masters: S. S. Rajamouli offers a similar behind-the-scenes coverage of some of the biggest blockbusters.
Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives
Streaming On: Netflix
While not a traditional documentary, Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives provides a reality-TV-style look into the lives of the wives of Bollywood’s leading men. The series offers insights into their personal lives, careers, and social circles, giving viewers a glimpse into the glamour and challenges of their world. All in all, it’s a fascinating watch for those interested in the personal stories behind Bollywood’s public figures.
While We Watched
Streaming On: Amazon Prime Video
While We Watched, directed by Vinay Shukla, documents the life of Indian journalist Ravish Kumar. It offers an intimate look at his dedication to truth and journalistic integrity amid political pressures and media manipulation. Set in India’s volatile media landscape, the film captures Kumar’s struggles against misinformation and threats. Moreover, it highlights his commitment to unbiased reporting.
The documentary reveals the personal sacrifices Kumar makes, including the emotional toll and strain on his family life. Through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers see the human side of his professional journey, akin to Netflix’s Modern Masters: S. S. Rajamouli.
An Insignificant Man
Streaming On: Amazon Prime Video
An Insignificant Man, a 2016 political documentary directed by Khushboo Ranka and Vinay Shukla. It chronicles Arvind Kejriwal’s rise and the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The film follows Kejriwal, a former bureaucrat, as he leaves his career to fight corruption and establish a grassroots political party. Likewise, Netflix’s Modern Masters: S. S. Rajamouli chronicles the inception of the filmmaker.
All That Breathes
Streaming On: Amazon Prime Video
All That Breathes is a 2022 documentary film directed by Shaunak Sen. The film captures the extraordinary efforts of two brothers, Mohammad Saud and Nadeem Shehzad. They run a bird hospital in New Delhi. The primary mission is to rescue and rehabilitate injured black kites amidst environmental challenges. It is a species of bird that plays a crucial role in the city’s ecosystem.
