Cast
View All
Raaj Kumar
as Raja / Ram
Hema Malini
as Billoo
Mithun Chakraborty
as Sikander
Poonam Dhillon
as Madhu
Smita Patil
as Tulsi
Amrita Singh
as Film Heroine
Dev Kumar
as
Leela Mishra
as Mausi
C.S. Dubey
as
Ranjeet Bedi
as Tiger
Danny Denzongpa
as Inspector Vijay
Iftekhar
as Police Commissioner
Aruna Irani
as Rani Sahiban
Shreeram Lagoo
as Uncle Abdul
Parikshat Sahni
as Rana
Crew
Director
- K. Yogi
- Sher Jung Singh
Writer
- Sher Jung Singh
Producer
- K. Yogi
- Sher Jung Singh
- Nayana Vyas
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Galiyon Ka Badshah examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director K. Yogi brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Galiyon Ka Badshah took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 135 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 74 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Galiyon Ka Badshah shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Galiyon Ka Badshah subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Pita and Naqaab explore similar territory, Galiyon Ka Badshah stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 1, 1989
- Runtime: 2h 15m
