Disclaimer: This article contains mentions of rape. Reader discretion is advised.
Netflix’s highly anticipated series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is finally gearing up to release on August 29, 2024. This six-episode thriller will take viewers up close to the harrowing events of the 1999 Indian Airlines hijacking. For those unaware, it is based on the book Flight Into Fear by Captain Devi Sharan and Srinjoy Chowdhury.
According to the streamer, “As a routine flight ascended into the winter sky, a chilling announcement signaled the beginning of a hijack that would change Indian aviation history forever. Inside, passengers faced mounting terror as the aircraft made emergency landings in four countries overnight. Meanwhile, negotiators outside raced against the clock to ensure the safety of 189 onboard.” Vijay Varma leads the cast as Captain Sharan Dev. Additionally, the supporting ensemble includes Naseeruddin Shah, Dia Mirza, and Pankaj Kapur.
As its release date nears, here’s a curated list of other true story-based movies and series that deliver gripping accounts of real-life events.
Delhi Crime seasons 1 & 2
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Delhi Crime is a standout in the true crime genre, chronicling the chilling aftermath of the 2012 Delhi gang rape case. Created by Richie Mehta, the first season centers on Deputy Commissioner of Police Vartika Chaturvedi’s mission to bring the perpetrators to justice. The first season earned the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series. Furthermore, season 2 continued with a new case involving the Chaddi Baniyan Gang. Both seasons provide a gripping look at real events, similar to how Netflix’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack dramatizes its true story.
Neerja
Streaming Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Neerja recounts the true story of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who heroically sacrificed her life during the 1986 hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73. Directed by Ram Madhvani, this 2016 film features Sonam Kapoor as Neerja. The film highlights her bravery in saving 359 passengers from terrorists. Much like Netflix’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, it presents a powerful story of courage in the face of crisis.
Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story
Streaming Platform: SonyLIV
Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story on SonyLIV investigates the 1992 Indian stock market scam. Directed by Hansal Mehta, this series is based on Sucheta Dalal and Debashish Basu’s book The Scam: Who Won, Who Lost, Who Got Away. Moreover, it chronicles the financial scandal through the eyes of stockbroker Harshad Mehta, played by Pratik Gandhi.
Talvar
Streaming Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Released in 2015, Talvar is a drama-thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar. It is based on the controversial 2008 Noida double murder case involving the Talwar family. The film, featuring Irrfan Khan and Konkona Sen Sharma, explores the complex and flawed investigation into the murders of Aarushi Talwar and the family’s servant, Hemraj.
The Railway Men
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Directed by Shiv Rawail, The Railway Men is a dramatic depiction of the Bhopal gas tragedy. The series tells the story of the efforts of railway employees during one of the worst industrial disasters in history. Featuring Kay Kay Menon and R. Madhavan, the show highlights their bravery and the chaos that unfolded during the 1984 disaster. Moreover, it mirrors the real-life tension and heroism promised in Netflix’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack.
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Streaming Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag tells the inspirational story of Milkha Singh. For those unaware, he was an Indian athlete who overcame numerous challenges to become a celebrated runner. The film, led by Farhan Akhtar, depicts Singh’s journey from being a refugee during India’s partition to winning on the international athletic stage.
In conclusion, like Netflix’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, these films and series bring real-life stories to the screen with tailor-made plots and intense drama.