Prime Video, one of India’s most beloved entertainment platforms, has announced the highly anticipated global premiere of the docuseries ‘Angry Young Men’ on August 20.
This three-episode series offers a deep dive into the lives and careers of the legendary screenwriting duo Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, famously known as Salim-Javed, whose contributions to Indian cinema in the 1970s and beyond have left an indelible mark on the industry, the platform said in a press release.
Produced by Salman Khan Films, Excel Media & Entertainment, and Tiger Baby, ‘Angry Young Men’ is directed by Namrata Rao, marking her debut as a director. The docuseries is executive produced by a stellar lineup that includes Salma Khan, Salman Khan, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti. This series is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide, making it a truly global event.
Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar are widely regarded as two of the most influential screenwriters in Indian cinema. Their partnership in the 1970s redefined storytelling in Bollywood, giving rise to the “Angry Young Man” archetype—a character who embodied the simmering discontent and thirst for justice felt by a generation. This persona, portrayed by actors like Amitabh Bachchan in films such as Sholay, Zanjeer, Deewaar,Yaadon Ki Baaraat, and Don, became a cultural phenomenon, forever changing the landscape of Indian cinema.
The docuseries Angry Young Men goes beyond just recounting the success of Salim-Javed’s films. It provides a personal and candid look at their lives, their creative process, and the lasting impact of their work. The series is enriched with anecdotes and insights from some of the most distinguished figures in Indian cinema, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of the duo’s legacy.
Manish Menghani, Director of Content Licensing at Prime Video India, expressed excitement about the docuseries, stating, “Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar are trailblazers who have had a profound impact on Indian films and mass cinema. Angry Young Men goes beyond storytelling; it delves into the heart and soul of Hindi cinema, showcasing their incredible journey.” Menghani emphasized that the docuseries is not just a tribute to these legendary writers but also a celebration of their timeless influence on society and culture.
Salman Khan, whose production company is one of the driving forces behind the series, shared his personal connection to the project, noting, “Growing up, seeing my father and Javed Sahab work together on films was nothing short of magical. ‘Angry Young Men’ is a tribute to their creative brilliance and the profound impact they’ve had on Indian cinema. It’s an insightful journey into the hearts and minds of two superstar writers who changed the landscape of storytelling forever.”
Zoya Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar, both of whom are closely connected to the project, also reflected on the significance of the docuseries. Zoya Akhtar highlighted the emotional and cinematic depth of the duo’s work, while Farhan Akhtar spoke about the lasting legacy of Salim-Javed, saying, “Their journey was marked by grit, passion, and a fierce zeal to transform Hindi cinema, especially in its attitude towards the writer. ‘Angry Young Men’ is a testament to the genius and the legacy of these two undeniable forces of nature.”
‘Angry Young Men’ is set to captivate audiences not just in India but around the world. As Prime Video continues to expand its global footprint, the series is poised to reach over 240 countries and territories, bringing the story of Salim-Javed to a diverse and widespread audience. With its global premiere on August 20, ‘Angry Young Men’ is expected to resonate with viewers across different cultures, highlighting the universal appeal of powerful storytelling.
In a time when content is consumed across multiple platforms and devices, the release of ‘Angry Young Men’ on Prime Video underscores the importance of digital streaming services in bringing high-quality, culturally significant content to a global audience. The docuseries is available as part of Prime membership, which offers a wide range of entertainment, savings, and convenience for just ₹1499 per year in India.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark moment in the world of docuseries. ‘Angry Young Men’ is more than just a celebration of two iconic writers—it is a tribute to the transformative power of cinema and the enduring impact of Salim-Javed’s work on the cultural fabric of India and beyond.