Salman Khan's dominance over the Hindi film industry since the turn of the millennium is a story written in box office records and iconic characters. From redefining the action hero to delivering heartwarming dramas, his career post-2000 showcases a versatility and star power that has captivated audiences for over two decades. Here, we explore five pivotal films that cemented his status as a superstar.
Redefining the Mass Hero: The Dabangg Era
The year 2010 marked a seismic shift with the arrival of Chulbul Pandey in 'Dabangg'. Salman Khan introduced audiences to a fearless, corrupt yet righteous police officer who blended swagger, humour, and high-octane action. This role single-handedly redefined the mass-action hero archetype in modern Hindi cinema. The film's unique mix of dialogue delivery, style, and attitude struck a massive chord, spawning a highly successful franchise and establishing a new benchmark for commercial entertainers.
Emotional Depth and Universal Appeal
Stepping away from his larger-than-life persona, Salman Khan delivered a performance of remarkable restraint in 2015's 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan'. Playing a devout man on a mission to reunite a mute lost child with her family across borders, the film highlighted compassion and humanity. Its universal themes of kindness transcended conflict, earning widespread critical praise and phenomenal box office success both in India and internationally. This film proved Khan's ability to anchor a story driven purely by emotion.
Similarly, 'Sultan' (2016) required a profound physical and emotional transformation. Portraying a local wrestler navigating a journey of rise, fall, and redemption through personal loss, Khan balanced raw vulnerability with immense strength. The film's focus on discipline, resilience, and emotional growth resonated deeply, making it more than just a sports drama. It stands as a prime example of character-driven storytelling within mainstream commercial cinema, earning both critical appreciation and substantial commercial returns.
Expanding the Cinematic Universe: Spies and Vigilantes
Salman Khan also successfully ventured into the spy thriller genre with 'Ek Tha Tiger' (2012). Playing a raw intelligence operative on global missions, he brought a blend of high-octane action and emotional depth to the screen. Shot across multiple international locations, the film revitalized the espionage genre in Bollywood and set a new benchmark for scale. His portrayal of a conflicted spy was so powerful that it launched a durable and expanding franchise.
In 'Kick' (2014), Khan embraced the role of a thrill-seeking vigilante motivated by adrenaline and a unique moral code. The film's narrative revolved around his unconventional battles against corruption, merging stylized action set-pieces with psychological intrigue. Known for its distinctive structure and Khan's energetic performance, which involved another significant physical transformation, 'Kick' reinforced his unparalleled ability to anchor high-concept, mass-appeal entertainers that dominate the nationwide box office.
The Enduring Legacy of a Superstar
From the rebellious Chulbul Pandey to the compassionate Bajrangi, and from the disciplined Sultan to the daring Tiger, these five films represent the pillars of Salman Khan's timeless reign in Bollywood since the millennium. Each project showcased a different facet of his on-screen persona, yet all were united by massive commercial success and a deep connection with audiences. His career trajectory demonstrates a unique blend of consistency in delivering hits and a willingness to occasionally subvert his own image, ensuring his position remains unchallenged at the pinnacle of Indian cinema.
