Dulquer Salmaan, the versatile and charismatic actor, has carved a niche for himself with his exceptional acting prowess and diverse choice of roles. The son of veteran actor Mammootty, Dulquer Salmaan made his debut in 2012 and quickly rose to fame, captivating audiences with his magnetic screen presence and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Salmaan’s latest project, the Netflix series Guns and Gulaabs helmed by Raj and DK, has been getting a promising reception from audiences and critics. He plays a police officer called Arjun in the series. Guns and Gulaabs joins a list of laud-worthy performances by the talented actor.
With a filmography that spans various genres and languages, here's a comprehensive guide to some of the must-watch films that showcase Dulquer Salmaan's acting finesse and cinematic versatility
1. Ustad Hotel (2012)
Dulquer's second film, Ustad Hotel, directed by Anwar Rasheed, is a heartwarming tale of family, food, and self-discovery. He plays Faizi, a young man who aspires to become a chef and, in the process, rediscovers his roots and values. The film not only earned critical acclaim but also marked Dulquer's emergence as a promising actor who could carry emotional depth with ease.
2. Bangalore Days (2014)
Bangalore Days, directed by Anjali Menon, is a coming-of-age drama that follows the lives of three cousins as they navigate the challenges and joys of adulthood in Bangalore. Dulquer's portrayal of Arjun, a free-spirited bike enthusiast, showcases his ability to effortlessly embody relatable and likeable characters. The film's ensemble cast and heartwarming story make it a favourite among audiences.
3. Vaayai Moodi Pesavum (2014)
This Tamil film, directed by Balaji Mohan, is a satirical comedy that reflects on the power of communication and the influence of fear. Dulquer plays Aravind, a salesman who becomes the voice of reason in a town affected by a mysterious speech impediment. The film's unique premise and Dulquer's engaging performance make it a standout in his filmography.
4. Charlie (2015)
Charlie, directed by Martin Prakkat, is a whimsical and enchanting film that showcases Dulquer's versatility. He plays the titular character, a free-spirited vagabond who leaves a lasting impact on the lives of those he encounters. The film's nonlinear narrative and Dulquer's charismatic performance make Charlie a must-watch for those who appreciate unconventional storytelling and charismatic characters.
5. OK Kanmani (2015)
In this romantic drama directed by Mani Ratnam, Dulquer shares the screen with Nithya Menon, and their chemistry is nothing short of magical. The film explores modern relationships and the concept of live-in partnerships with sensitivity and depth. Dulquer's portrayal of Adi showcases his ability to embody contemporary characters while injecting them with a touch of charm.
6. Kali (2016)
Dulquer's intense performance in Kali, directed by Sameer Thahir, earned him widespread acclaim. The film portrays the journey of Siddharth, a man with anger management issues, and his wife as they navigate a life-threatening situation. Dulquer's portrayal of a man consumed by rage and fear highlights his ability to embrace complex characters and deliver emotionally charged performances.
7. Kammatipaadam (2016)
Kammatipaadam, directed by Rajeev Ravi, is a crime drama that sees Dulquer in a completely different avatar. The film delves into the lives of residents of a slum area as they grapple with crime, displacement, and personal dilemmas. Dulquer's portrayal of Krishnan, a character torn between loyalty and morality, showcases his willingness to take on challenging and gritty roles.
8. Comrade in America (2017)
Directed by Amal Neerad, Comrade in America (CIA) is a road-trip film that explores the journey of Aji Mathew, played by Dulquer, as he searches for his love interest in the United States. The film combines elements of romance, adventure, and political activism, showcasing Dulquer's ability to handle diverse genres and characters.
9. Mahanati (2018)
Dulquer's foray into the Telugu film industry with Mahanati was met with widespread appreciation. The biographical drama revolves around the life of legendary actress Savitri, played by Keerthy Suresh. Dulquer essays the role of Gemini Ganesan, Savitri's husband, with grace and nuance. His performance contributes to the emotional depth of the film and its portrayal of a complex relationship.
10. Karwaan (2018)
Karwaan, directed by Akarsh Khurana, is a road-trip comedy that combines humour, introspection, and self-discovery. Dulquer plays Avinash, a young man who embarks on an unconventional journey to retrieve a deceased relative's body. His interactions with co-stars Irrfan Khan and Mithila Palkar create a delightful dynamic that adds layers to the film's narrative.
While all these 10 films from Dulquer Salmaan's filmography are absolutely recommendable, this is by no means an exhaustive list. In 2022, the star won hearts with Sita Ramam and critical praise for his performance in Chup: Revenge Of The Artist. We can't wait to witness the magic he creates with King Of Kotha (2023).
Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication only.