If you have watched The Ba***ds Of Bollywood or spent even five minutes on Instagram, you have probably heard Raghav Juyal declaring, “Akha Bollywood ek taraf aur Emraan Hashmi ek taraf.” And he’s absolutely right. For far too long, Emraan has been boxed into the “serial kisser” stereotype, but the man’s filmography is loaded with performances that prove he’s way more than that. So, if you want proof of why Emraan Hashmi is the real OG, you need to watch these movies right away.

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1. Tigers

Perhaps his most underrated film, simply because barely anyone in India got to watch it. A festival favourite directed by Oscar-winning Danis Tanović, it’s based on the real-life story of a man who blew the whistle on a baby food scandal. Though underrated, it is believed to be one of Emraan’s best performances. Raw, real, and completely committed.

Where to watch: Zee5

2. Shanghai

Dibakar Banerjee’s political thriller didn’t exactly set the box office on fire, but it gave Emraan one of his meatiest roles. Playing a small-town cameraman with dodgy morals and a surprising streak of courage, he completely shed his lover-boy image. It’s gritty and raw and shows just how versatile he can be when handed the right script.

Where to watch: Prime Video

3. Awarapan

Hands down, one of Emraan’s finest performances. A soulful gangster drama with themes of love, redemption, and faith. The film bombed at the box office but later gained cult status. Emraan’s portrayal of a broken man seeking salvation is haunting and deserves a lot more recognition.

Where to watch: Netflix

4. Footpath

His debut film, and probably the most overlooked one. While the film itself wasn’t a commercial hit, Emraan stood out with his raw energy and screen presence. His performance grabbed the attention of critics and filmmakers alike.

Where to watch: Prime Video

5. Ghanchakkar

Now this was way ahead of its time. A black comedy about a thief suffering from retrograde amnesia, paired opposite Vidya Balan. Audiences didn’t quite “get it” back then, but today, it feels like a quirky gem. Even though the movie has its share of flaws, Emraan’s spaced-out act was both funny and oddly believable

Where to watch: Netflix

6. Why Cheat India

Another underrated outing that didn’t get the attention it deserved. A satirical look at India’s education scam, the film was patchy, but Emraan nailed his role as the smooth operator running the racket. It’s the kind of social commentary Bollywood doesn’t attempt often, but every time it does, you need to watch it.

Where to watch: Zee5

7. Harami

Barely known in India but screened at the Busan Film Festival, Harami is one of Emraan Hashmi’s best movies. He plays a strict schoolteacher in Mumbai who crosses paths with a teenage pickpocket. It’s gritty, indie, and absolutely deserves to be on your watchlist.

Where to watch: Netflix

Ever since the Kaho Na Kaho reel has taken over our feeds and Emraan’s new movie, OG, is hitting the theatres on September 25, this may very well be his year, and we’re here for it!

Watch the OG movie trailer here.

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