Has the film industry run out of ideas?

Bareilly Ki Barfi, August 18

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, the film is about Bitti, a young woman living in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, who feels stifled by her small-town existence until she happens upon a novella with a title character based on her. Starring Kriti Sanon, Rajkummar Rao and Ayushmann Khurrana, the movie offers a quirky look at social norms in northern India.

Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, August 25

Ayushmann Khurrana, who has a knack for picking offbeat films with real heart, stars in this laugh-out-loud comedy about a would-be groom with erectile dysfunction. It’s a funny but telling critique of how the subject is viewed in India: as shameful and taboo. Also starring Bhumi Pednekar and directed by R S Prasanna.

Baadshaho, September 1

Described as a “period heist action thriller set in the 1970s”, has Ajay Devgn – all sinewy muscle and scowls – in the lead role as a truculent gangster. Expect exploding cars, racy songs and a romantic subplot or two from this out-and-out masala caper. Also starring Ileana D’Cruz (as a princess, no less) and Emraan Hashmi, and directed by Milan Luthria.

Simran, September 15

A dark comedy based on a true story, with Kangana Ranaut in the titular role. The actress portrays a gormless divorcee working as a housekeeper in the United States, who unapologetically turns to a life of shoplifting and heavy gambling. Directed by award-winning Hansal Mehta, and also starring Soham Shah and Esha Tewari.