What it’s about
In Central India in 1893, the British Raj imposes heavy taxes (lagaan) on the struggling farmers. A cruel, arrogant officer, Captain Russell (Blackthorne) challenges the locals to a game of cricket, setting these terms: if the skilled British team wins, the lagaan will be tripled. But if the Indians win (at a game theyve never played), they will be exempt from lagaan for three years. The villagers are led by the intrepid Bhuvan (Khan), who inspires this ragtag team of misfits. Unexpectedly, hes also aided by Russells beautiful sister Elizabeth (Shelley), much to the chagrin of his village sweetheart Gauri (Singh).
Why we love it
Music and sports, passion and villainy all come together in this exuberant cinematic feast. Boasting glorious scenery, infectious musical numbers and eye-catching choreography and gripping suspense, Lagaan handily transcends the clich of underdog sports movie. Bollywood star Khan produced as well as starred in a production that took over five months to shoot (but actually cost less than $4 million!). Though close to four hours long, youll be transported by this rousing, Oscar-nominated saga, and the time will fly. Who knows? You may even take up cricket.