From pioneering the “angry young man” era with Javed Akhtar to redefining the masala film format, Salim Khan’s storytelling revolutionized Bollywood and continues to inspire generations of writers, directors and actors. Here’s a look at few films that defined the “angry young men” era. Zanjeer (1973): This film birthed the archetype. Amitabh Bachchan plays Inspector Vijay, a cold, brooding cop who suppresses his emotions while battling a corrupt system. Departing from the era’s “chocolate hero” trend, it established the gritty realism and intense vengeance themes. (Image: Instagram) Deewar (1975): This crime drama explores the moral divide between two brothers. Vijay’s rise as an underworld don against his honest policeman brother, Ravi, masterfully captures the era’s socio-economic frustrations and the iconic “Maa” conflict. (Image: IMDb) Sholay (1975): The film refined the “Angry Young Men” through Jai and Veeru. It blended explosive action with deep camaraderie. The film’s sharp dialogue and Jai’s stoic, cynical persona solidified Salim-Javed’s status as masters of the Masala genre. (Image: IMDb) Trishul (1978): A powerful saga of illegitimate birth and cold-blooded revenge. …