Aactor, producer Chitrangda Singh‘s reportoire is filled with unconventional role choices and intense on-screen presence including strong, independent women — from Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2005) and Desi Boyz (2011) to Bob Biswas (2021) and Khakee: The Bengal Chapter (2025). She favours layered, character-driven narratives in roles she chooses.
For an actor who seeks out unconventional characters and socially resonant storytelling, her own favourites lean the other way — movies steeped in hope, sympathy, timeless romance and the innocence of love.
“The storytelling and performances are exceptional. It’s one of those films that never gets old,” Singh says of the first film in the trilogy. Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) hands over his mafia empire to his youngest son Michael (Al Pacino), unwittingly endangering the family he sought to protect. Rather than painting its gangsters as simple villains, director Francis Ford Coppola and author Mario Puzo frame their violence through loyalty, moral codes, and the preservation of family.
Popularised by the 1899 Urdu novel, Umrao Jaan Ada, the film follows Amiran (Rekha), sold to a brothel by a corrupt cop. She grows up to become an accomplished poetess and courtesan, Umrao Jaan. “Rekha’s performance is absolutely mesmerising,” Singh says. “The film has so much grace, music and emotional depth which makes it truly unforgettable.” The story unfolds against lost love, heartbreak, and the artistic culture of 19th century Awadh.
The Sooraj Barjatya debut directorial follows Prem (Salman Khan) and Suman (Bhagyashree) who fall in love, only to be torn apart by family differences. However, they overcome the odds and reunite. “It reminds me of the innocence of first love,” Singh says. “The music, the simple story, and the heartfelt emotions make it a film I never get tired of watching.”
When asked why this is one of her favourite movies, Singh says, “It’s such a feel-good movie. I love how effortlessly it blends romance, charm, and emotional depth.” The film follows Edward (Richard Gere), a wealthy entrepreneur who hires a prostitute, Vivian (Julia Roberts), to accompany him to social events and then falls for her. Singh also gushes over Roberts’s performance, saying, “She is unforgettable.”
“It’s a beautiful reminder to never lose hope,” Singh says. “Every watch leaves me inspired.” The film follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a successful banker who is arrested for the murders of his wife and her lover and then sentenced to life imprisonment at Shawshank State Penitentiary. There, he becomes the most unconventional prisoner. The iconic film focuses on themes of hope, perseverance and friendship.