PR movies in Bollywood

What are the best PR movies in Bollywood, revolving either around the professions of Journalism or Public Relations?

Bollywood has produced a plethora of films that delve into the realm of journalism and public relations, shedding light on the complexities, challenges, and influence of these fields in our society. These films capture the essence of the media’s role in shaping public opinion, its power to hold the powerful accountable, and its susceptibility to manipulation for various agendas. Here, we explore some of the best Bollywood movies that have tackled these themes with factual accuracy:

1. Peepli Live (2010): Directed by Anusha Rizvi, Peepli Live is a satirical comedy-drama that offers a stark commentary on the grim issue of farmer suicides in India. The film revolves around Natha, a destitute farmer from Peepli village, who contemplates suicide as a desperate plea for media attention. The film paints a realistic picture of the sensationalism and insensitivity of the media while addressing the agrarian crisis in India. It highlights the media’s role in exploiting human suffering for ratings and the harsh realities faced by farmers.
2. No One Killed Jessica (2011): Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, No One Killed Jessica is a gripping crime thriller inspired by the real-life murder of Jessica Lal, a model, and bartender. The film portrays the relentless pursuit of justice by Jessica’s sister and the media’s pivotal role in bringing the case to the forefront. It showcases how media pressure can lead to the reopening of cold cases and the accountability of the elite.
3. Dil Se.. (1998): Directed by Mani Ratnam, Dil Se.. is a romantic thriller that intertwines journalism with a love story. The film follows the journey of a radio journalist who falls in love with a mysterious woman he meets on a train. While the primary focus is on the romance, it subtly highlights the role of media in disseminating information and connecting people. The film also delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists when their personal and professional lives collide.
4. Satyagraha (2013): Directed by Prakash Jha, Satyagraha is a political drama that revolves around a group of activists who unite to fight against corruption and injustice in society. Drawing inspiration from real-life events and political movements in India, the film emphasizes the importance of media coverage in mobilizing public opinion and putting pressure on corrupt officials. It underscores the symbiotic relationship between social activism and media exposure.
5. Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000): Directed by Aziz Mirza, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani is a comedy-drama that revolves around two rival journalists who reluctantly join forces to expose a corrupt politician. The film provides a humorous take on the competitive nature of journalism while highlighting the media’s role in uncovering political scandals and fostering accountability.
6. Dhamaka (2021): Directed by Ram Madhvani, Dhamaka is a thriller that centers around a news anchor who becomes embroiled in a terrorist attack and must report live from the scene. The film showcases the challenges faced by journalists in high-pressure situations, their role in disseminating crucial information, and the ethical dilemmas they encounter when reporting on sensitive matters.

These Bollywood movies accurately portray the multifaceted nature of journalism and public relations. They serve as a mirror to the media landscape, illustrating how it can be a force for good or a tool for manipulation. These films remind us of the critical role played by media in shaping public discourse, influencing political decisions, and striving for justice in our society.