Get Ready for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani with these 6 Must-Watch movies directed by Karan Johar

Karan Johar is the son of film producer Yash Johar, founder of Dharma Productions and Hiroo Johar. He started his career in the film industry as an assistant director in Aditya Chopra’s Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaayenge which became an icon of Indian cinema. In the film, he also played the role of Shah Rukh Khan’s character. Three years later, in 1998, he directed his first film, a romantic comedy-drama Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji.

Two years later, Karan’s next directorial venture was the ensemble family drama Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…, starring legendary actors Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan along with Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan and Kajol. The film was a lavish family drama that celebrated the importance of love and familial bonds.

With Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006), he showcased his directorial skills in a bold exploration of relationships, infidelity, and societal expectations. His ability to explore complex human emotions and challenge societal norms through storytelling cemented his position as a visionary director.

His ability to tackle diverse themes and subjects is one of his remarkable qualities as a filmmaker. With My Name Is Khan (2010), he explored socially relevant territory by examining Islamophobia through the story of an Asperger’s patient. Featuring a strong message of love, acceptance, and unity, the movie struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

Later, he directed numerous movies such as Student of the Year, where he cast three debutante actors Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan. In 2016, with Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Karan explored the themes of unrequited love, relationships and friendship.

With a knack for storytelling, a keen eye for aesthetics, and an uncanny ability to touch the hearts of the audience, Karan Johar has established himself as a director, producer, and screenwriter. He has also left an indelible mark on Bollywood. He is best known for his seamless blend of grandeur, emotions, and memorable characters that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Completing his 25 years in Bollywood, he is back again with Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, a family romantic comedy-drama, featuring Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh.

Let us take a look at six of his best directorials to watch ahead of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Salman Khan and Sana Saeed

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is a timeless classic directed by Karan Johar. Released in 1998, the film tells the story of Rahul, Anjali, and Tina. Rahul and Anjali are best friends in college. When Tina enters their lives and Rahul falls in love with her, leaving Anjali heartbroken. Tragedy strikes and Tina passes away, leaving letters for her daughter to unite Rahul and Anjali.

The film beautifully captures first love, friendship, and second chances. The film is remembered by the audience due to Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol’s iconic performances and amazing chemistry, its comedic scenes and its memorable songs such as the title song Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Koi Mil Gaya and others.

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham… (2001)

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham aka K3G is a family drama released in 2001. the film features an ensemble cast and explores the dynamics of love, relationships, and family values.

The plot centres around the rich Raichand family, led by Yashvardhan Raichand and his wife Nandini. Their eldest son, Rahul, falls in love with a spirited girl named Anjali, but their relationship is frowned upon by his family due to socioeconomic inequalities.

In the end, Rahul ignores his family’s wishes and weds Anjali, which results in his disinheritance. The movie then examines the fallout from this choice and how it affects the family’s relationships. Years later, Rohan, Rahul’s younger brother, learns the truth about his brother’s past and sets out on a journey to bring the divided family back together.

The film is not only famous for its extravagant sets or musical numbers but also iconic fashion styles. It is still remembered by Kareena’s portrayal of Pooja aka Poo, Kajol’s talkativeness and irritation towards the British and her chemistry with co-star SRK.

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)

Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta and Kirron Kher

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna is a musical romantic drama that deconstructs societal expectations by delving into the complexity of relationships and marriage. The narrative centres on Dev and Maya, who turn to one another for support as they navigate their unhappy marriages with Rhea and Dev respectively. The film dives into subjects such as extramarital affairs and the search for happiness.

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna was a boundary-pushing film by Karan Johar that inspired spectators to consider the complexities of human emotions. It had a strong cast, enthralling cinematography, and an expressive soundtrack with composition by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, songs like Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Mitwa, and Tumhi Dekho Na hit a chord with the audience and give the story more depth.

My Name Is Khan (2010)

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol

My Name Is Khan is a 2010 epic drama that follows Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger’s syndrome, who lives with his wife Mandira and stepson Sameer. But after 9/11, the family starts facing Islamophobia and experiences the post 9/11 prejudice which eventually led to their son, Sameer’s death. This leads Rizwan to embark on a journey to meet the President of the United States, spreading a message of love and acceptance.

The plot delves into subjects such as love, faith, discrimination, and perseverance. The film gained great accolades for its outstanding performances and thought-provoking narrative. The movie is renowned for Karan Johar’s remarkable directing abilities and Shah Rukh Khan’s adaptability, and it tells a gripping tale that encourages understanding and compassion.

Student of the Year (2012)

Cast: Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra

Student of the Year marks Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Sidharth Malhotra’s acting debut. The romantic comedy centres around a group of students competing for the title of Student of the Year at their academy. The film revolves around the lives of three students studying at St. Teresa’s Academy, Abhimanyu Singh, Shanaya Singhania and Rohan Nanda. In the context of a prominent academy, the movie examines issues of ambition, competition, and self-discovery.

Incorporating romance, drama, and upbeat musical moments, Student of the Year exemplifies Karan Johar’s distinctive storytelling approach. The film offers vivid images, catchy tunes, and dynamic performances from the young ensemble cast. The movie’s upbeat dancing sequences, memorable soundtrack, and beautiful depiction of college life won over viewers from all walks of life.

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)

Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is a romantic drama that explores love, relationships, and unrequited feelings through the story of Ayan, who falls for Alizeh, but she sees him only as a friend. Ayan’s journey of self-discovery and emotional turmoil unfolds as he meets Saba, a poetess.

The film exemplifies Karan Johar’s distinctive storytelling technique by striking a balance between emotional heft, sharp dialogue, and breathtaking visuals. Pritam composed the soulful music for the film, which includes iconic tracks like Channa Mereya, Bulleya, and the title track Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.

Karan Johar is making a comeback after seven years in the industry as a director with his romantic comedy Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani which explores the themes of family and different cultures. The film has recently released two of its soundtracks along with a teaser. It also stars Shabana Azmi, Dharmendra and Jaya Bachchan in prominent roles. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani will be released in cinemas on July 28.

See Also: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani teaser: Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt star in a classic Karan Johar film