August 6, 2023: Friendship Day 2023 is today, and is a time to cherish and celebrate the wonderful bonds we share with our friends. As the world comes together to honor these special connections, what better way to do so than by enjoying some heartwarming films and series that beautifully capture the essence of friendship?
With the convenience of OTT platforms, we have a plethora of options to choose from.
Here’s a curated list of the 5 best films and series to watch on OTT this Friendship Day 2023
- “Friends” (TV Series)
What better way to commemorate Friendship Day than by revisiting the iconic TV series “Friends.” Follow the lives, laughs, and lovable quirks of six friends living in New York City as they navigate through the ups and downs of life, love, and careers. This timeless series celebrates the enduring power of friendship and guarantees endless laughter and relatable moments. - “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” (Film)
Based on the critically acclaimed novel, this film beautifully captures the journey of a shy, introverted teenager named Charlie as he befriends two charismatic seniors. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” explores themes of acceptance, self-discovery, and the transformative impact of friendship during the pivotal years of adolescence. - “Stranger Things” (TV Series)
Step into the supernatural world of Hawkins, Indiana, with “Stranger Things.” This sci-fi series not only thrills with its supernatural mysteries but also warms hearts with the endearing friendships among its group of kids. As they face eerie occurrences, their unwavering support for one another showcases the strength of true friendship in the face of the unknown. - “Stand by Me” (Film)
Travel back in time with this classic coming-of-age film that follows four friends on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. Adapted from a Stephen King novella, “Stand by Me” captures the essence of childhood friendships, nostalgia, and the bonds that shape us as we grow up. - “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (TV Series)
While not solely focused on friendship, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” features a strong bond between the titular character and her manager, Susie. Set in the 1950s, this series blends humor and drama as Midge Maisel navigates her way through the world of stand-up comedy, with Susie by her side, proving that true friends uplift each other, no matter the circumstances.
This Friendship Day 2023, let these films and series take you on a journey that explores the beauty of friendships, the challenges they overcome, and the love and laughter they bring. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming comedies, touching dramas, or thrilling mysteries, these OTT selections have something for everyone.
So, grab your popcorn, gather your friends (virtually or in person), and embark on a cinematic celebration of the extraordinary bonds that make life truly special.
From Sholay to Dil Chahta Hai: Celebrating Friendship Day with Great Indian Films
Sholay
Released in 1975, “Sholay” is a timeless film of great friendship bonding. The film’s narrative of friendship between the characters of Jai and Veeru, played by Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra respectively, remains etched in the hearts of audiences. Their bond symbolizes the undying spirit of friendship as they stand by each other through thick and thin, facing challenges together. The iconic dialogue, “Yeh dosti hum nahi todenge” (We won’t break this friendship), still echoes as a testament to the enduring power of companionship.
Dil Chahta Hai
In the year 2000s, “Dil Chahta Hai” brought a fresh perspective to the portrayal of friendship in Indian cinema. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, the film depicted the lives of three friends played by Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Akshaye Khanna. The movie showcased the complexities of friendships as they navigate through life’s challenges, love, and personal growth. “Dil Chahta Hai” resonated with a younger audience and portrayed a more relatable and contemporary view of friendship.
3 Idiots
Aamir Khan’s “3 Idiots” resonated with audiences by blending humor, life lessons, and profound camaraderie. The story of three friends pursuing engineering at a prestigious institute addressed societal pressures, individual aspirations, and the unbreakable ties that hold them together. The film highlighted the importance of pursuing one’s passion and staying connected with friends who encourage and uplift, even in the face of challenges.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
In 2013, “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani” beautifully captured the beauty of friendships that evolve over time. The film, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, showcased a group of friends reuniting after years, highlighting how individual paths and aspirations may lead to growth and change, yet true friends remain pillars of support. The movie emphasized the idea that even as life takes us on different journeys, the bonds of friendship remain unbreakable.
Chhichhore
“Chhichhore,” released in 2019, took the audiences into the lives of a group of friends who reminisce about their college days. Through a series of flashbacks, the film explored the ups and downs of their time together, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie in overcoming failures and celebrating successes. The movie portrayed the emotional resilience that friends provide in times of adversity, reminding us of the power of unity.
On this Friendship Da 2023, let’s celebrate the bonds that enrich our lives, Indian cinema offers a diverse array of films that showcase the multifaceted nature of friendship. From the timeless unity of “Sholay” to the modern complexities of relationships in “Dil Chahta Hai,” “3 Idiots,” “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani,” and “Chhichhore,” these films remind us of the invaluable role friends play in our journey.
As we watch these movies today, let’s cherish the old friendships, rekindle connections, and appreciate the new bonds that continue to shape our lives. Just as the characters on screen teach us, friendship remains a beacon of light, guiding us through the challenges and joys of life, and enriching our journey in ways beyond measure.
Friendship Day is celebrated to honor the special bond of friendship and the value of having close friends in our lives. It’s a day dedicated to expressing gratitude, affection, and appreciation towards our friends. The celebration of Friendship Day varies across cultures and countries, but the underlying theme is to celebrate the positive influence of friends and their role in our well-being.
The idea of Friendship Day was first proposed in 1930 by the founder of Hallmark Cards, Joyce Hall, who wanted to create a day to celebrate and promote friendship. However, the concept gained more traction when the United Nations officially recognized July 30th as International Friendship Day in 2011, with the aim of promoting unity, understanding, and peace among different cultures and nations.
