Pradip Bhattarai, a Nepalese screenwriter and director, made his directorial debut in the film Jatra. He works mainly as a director of comedy-drama films, which entertain audiences through the use of humorous characters and dialogue delivery. He has collaborated with humorous actors such as Bipin Karki, Deepak Raj Giri, and Maha Jodi (Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansa Acharya). He has also served as a judge on Comedy Champion, Nepal’s first comedy reality TV show, because of his skill and directing talent in crafting compelling comedy-drama films. We will be looking at Pradip Bhattarai’s hit movies from his directing career, as he has screenwritten all of his films, which have all been box office successes.
Mahapurush (2022)
Mahapurush is a comedy film about a widower father (Hari Bansha Acharya) who falls in love with a woman in his old age but suffers because society does not acknowledge ancient marriages and his two sons are opposed to his father’s marriage. The film, starring Maha Jodi (Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha Acharya), Gauri Malla, Arun Chhetri, Rabindra Singh Baniya, Rajaram Paudel, and Anjan Baraili, was a commercial success, taking audiences on an enjoyable yet thought-provoking ride through old age marriage, with an excellent blend of humor and drama.
Hari Bansha Acharya delivered his best performance in the film, followed by strong performances from the rest of the cast, while Pradip Bhattarai provided Nepali moviegoers with the year’s best film with his writing and directing. Pradip Bhattarai with his wonderful vision and screenplay kept the audience engaged, and as a fantastic comedy, the picture also moved the audience to tears and grins with its amusing and melancholic characters. With excellent direction, screenplay, and plot, the picture deserved its success, and if you are a Nepali moviegoer, you should see it at least once.
Box Office Verdict: Hit
Mahapurush Movie Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
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Jatrai Jatra (2019)
Next up on our list is Jatrai Jatra, the second installment of the Jatra Series, which stars Bipin Karki, Dayahang Rai, Rabindra Singh Baniya, Rabindra Jha, Madhu Paudel, and Barsha Raut. The film follows the story of Phadindra and his friends and family following the events of the prequel, Jatra. They are found innocent. But, once again, Phadindra, now a cab driver, finds gold biscuits while driving a rowdy gangster, but the gangster is taken by other thugs, leaving the gold biscuits behind.
Pradip Bhattarai’s skillful direction and captivating writing make Jatrai Jatra a refreshing take on Nepali comedy. Pradip Bhattarai’s ability to combine humor, emotion, and social critique results in a riveting cinematic experience that appeals to audiences of all backgrounds. With a talented cast led by the trio Bipin Karki, Rabindra Singh Baniya, and Rabindra Jha, as well as a well-crafted plot, the film gives both laughs and thought-provoking moments, making it a must-see for those looking for great Nepali cinema.
Box Office Verdict: Hit
Jatrai Jatra Movie Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Watch Jatrai Jatra Movie:
Shatru Gate (2018)
Shatru Gate, a 2018 drama comedy film tells the story of Rahul (Deepak), who causes a dispute between the families of Suraj (Paul Shah) and Sandhya (Aanchal Sharma), a couple who is deeply in love and about to marry. The movie stars Madan Krishna Shrestha, Hari Bansha Acharya, Deepak Raj Giri, Deepa Shree Niraula, Priyanka Karki, Paul Shah, and Aanchal Sharma.
Shatru Gate features star-studded cast members and promises enjoyment with its comic premise. However, the picture falls short in terms of depth and originality, relying primarily on forced comedy and formulaic storylines. Director Pradip Bhattarai’s directorial, which attempts to repeat the popularity of his prior work, falls short, with room for development in writing and screenwriting. Despite its weaknesses, the film contains moments of comedy and social satire, making it appropriate for people seeking lighthearted entertainment as a one-time watch.
Box Office Verdict: Hit
Shatru Gate Movie Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ / 5
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Jatra (2016)
Last but not least we have the first installment of the Jatra series, Jatra, a heist comedy film that stars Bipin Karki, Rabindra Singh Baniya, and Rabindra Jha in pivotal roles with a supporting cast of Barsha Raut tells the story of Phadindra, an innocent, poor, and hardworking man whose life changes when he receives a sack full of three crore Nepalese rupees (around US $200,000) and implements various ideas with his two friends to protect the money from the real owners, which have a great impact on their lives.
Jatra’s witty humor and relatable storyline make it a unique take on comedy. Director Pradip Bhattarai’s keen understanding of space and milieu, combined with the cast’s skilled performances, make this film a must-see for those looking for high-quality entertainment in Nepali cinema. Bhattarai’s direction strikes a balance between contrivances and spontaneity, resulting in a comedy that is both hilarious and engaging, while his writing seamlessly blends situational and exaggerated comedy. The film’s strong performances, particularly those of the three leads and Barsha Raut, add depth to the characters, making it a must-see for those looking for a well-crafted Nepali cinematic experience.
Box Office Verdict: Hit
Jatra Movie Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Watch Jatra Movie: