50 Best Indian Movies Across Genres You Need to Watch

Discover a treasure trove of Indian cinema with this curated list of must-watch films from various genres. Whether you’re into thrilling dramas, heartwarming stories, or edge-of-your-seat action, there’s something for everyone here. Dive in to explore some of the finest movies from Bollywood and beyond, each offering a unique cinematic experience.

Key Takeaway

From historical epics and gripping thrillers to light-hearted comedies and intense dramas, this list showcases the diversity and richness of Indian cinema. Each film brings something special to the table, whether it’s powerful storytelling, remarkable performances, or unforgettable music.

Drama

1. Thevar Magan (1992)
   Rating: 8.7
   Synopsis: An urban man struggles between his personal ambitions and family responsibilities in a dramatic portrayal of rural life and politics.
2. Visaaranai (2015)
   Rating: 8.4
   Synopsis: Four laborers face brutal police torture to confess to a crime they didn’t commit, highlighting the harsh realities of the legal system.
3. Gargi (2022)
   Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: A young teacher fights to clear her father’s name with the help of a novice lawyer, navigating through a gripping legal battle.
4. Secret Superstar (2017)
   Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A teenage girl from an abusive home rises to fame as a YouTube sensation while hiding her identity, reflecting her struggle for personal freedom.
5. Bangalore Days (2014)
   Rating: 8.3
   Synopsis: Follow three cousins as they navigate the ups and downs of life and love in the bustling city of Bangalore.
6. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016)
   Rating: 8.3
   Synopsis: A photographer seeks revenge after being publicly humiliated, leading to life-changing realizations.
7. Saptha Sagaradaache Ello – Side A (2023)
   Rating: 8.2
   Synopsis: A love story between Manu and Priya faces hurdles when Manu’s imprisonment threatens their relationship.
8. Section 375 (2019)
   Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: A celebrated director faces serious accusations from a female crew member, exploring themes of power and consent.
9. Sky Force (2024)
   Rating: N/A
   Synopsis: Celebrate the valor of the Indian Air Force with a film based on true events, depicting one of their greatest victories.
10. Rail (2024)
    Rating: 8.7
    Synopsis: An electrician’s strained personal and professional life comes to a head amidst a conflict with local workers.

Thriller

11. Cuttputli (2022)
    Rating: 5.7
    Synopsis: A small town is gripped by serial killings, and a rookie cop races against time to uncover the truth.
12. Marichi (2023)
    Rating: 6.5
    Synopsis: A serial killer targets doctors, leaving cryptic clues, as an officer tries to prevent further murders.
13. Silence: Can You Hear It (2021)
    Rating: 6.5
    Synopsis: A murder mystery where silence hides the truth, keeping you guessing till the end.
14. Warning (2021)
    Rating: 8.2
    Synopsis: Gangsters clash in a battle for dominance while evading the law in this high-stakes thriller.
15. Forensic (2022)
    Rating: 6.3
    Synopsis: A female officer and a forensic expert join forces to catch a serial killer in a small hill town.
16. Bloody Daddy (2023)
    Rating: 6.6
    Synopsis: A man’s chaotic life turns even messier as he battles criminals and cops to save his crucial relationship.
17. Athomugam (2024)
    Rating: 6.8
    Synopsis: A man’s use of a spy app reveals dark secrets, leading to a thrilling exploration of love, trust, and technology.
18. Backwaters (2022)
    Rating: N/A
    Synopsis: The film delves into the mystery of missing children in Kerala, questioning divine awareness of their fate.
19. Pyaar Ishq Aur Possession (2024)
    Rating: 3.0
    Synopsis: A painter’s marital problems and an art promoter’s ambitions lead to a web of lies and betrayals.
20. Tantiram (2023)
    Rating: 7.3
    Synopsis: A man’s transformation from troubled past to loving husband is disrupted by a supernatural entity.

Action

21. War 2 (2025)
    Rating: N/A
    Synopsis: Plot details are under wraps, but expect an action-packed sequel to the 2019 blockbuster.
22. Baaghi (2016)
    Rating: 5.3
    Synopsis: A martial artist’s journey to Bangkok turns into a mission to rescue his love from a rival.
23. Mission Kashmir (2000)
    Rating: 6.6
    Synopsis: A police officer’s adoption of a massacre survivor complicates when the foster son learns of his past.
24. Wanted (2009)
    Rating: 6.6
    Synopsis: A ruthless gangster’s life is complicated by love and a quest for change when he meets a disapproving girl.
25. Godfather (2022)
    Rating: 5.2
    Synopsis: After a political leader’s death, a power struggle ensues, revealing corruption and deceit.
26. Boys (2003)
    Rating: 7.2
    Synopsis: A group of vibrant teens discovers their hidden talents while defying societal norms.
27. Shehzada (2023)
    Rating: 4.5
    Synopsis: A young man’s life changes when he discovers his true parentage and decides to protect them.
28. Dhamaal (2007)
    Rating: 5.9
    Synopsis: Four friends go on a wild goose chase for hidden treasure, leading to a series of comic misadventures.
29. Jai Ho (2014)
    Rating: 4.6
    Synopsis: A man with a strong sense of justice takes matters into his own hands to help others, creating a ripple effect of kindness.
30. Sky Force (2024)
    Rating: N/A
    Synopsis: Celebrates the Indian Air Force’s historic victory, portraying a true story of bravery.

Comedy

31. Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1994)
    Rating: 7.6
    Synopsis: A lovable dreamer tries to win the heart of a girl who is already in love with someone else.
32. Delhi Belly (2011)
    Rating: 7.6
    Synopsis: Three roommates’ lives spiral into chaos when they become entangled with a dangerous gangster.
33. Housefull 3 (2016)
    Rating: 4.9
    Synopsis: Three men must convince their future father-in-law that they are worthy of his daughters despite his objections.
34. Chachi 420 (1997)
    Rating: 7.4
    Synopsis: A man disguises himself as his daughter’s nanny to stay close to her, leading to hilarious complications.
35. Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
    Rating: 7.4
    Synopsis: Separated brothers, raised in different religions, are reunited after many years, leading to a mix of comedy and adventure.

Romance

36. Dev.D (2009)
    Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A young man and a teenage girl navigate through troubled lives involving drugs and prostitution, searching for redemption.
37. Love Per Square Foot (2018)
    Rating: 7.1
    Synopsis: Two individuals enter into a marriage of convenience to afford a home in a bustling city.
38. Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022)
    Rating: 7.7
    Synopsis: A newlywed struggles to balance her aspirations and family expectations in a humorous yet poignant narrative.
39. Patna Shukla (2024)
    Rating: 5.6
    Synopsis: A lawyer in Patna fulfills her childhood dream amidst personal and professional challenges.
40. Mary Kom (2014)
    Rating: 6.8
    Synopsis: The inspiring story of boxer Mary Kom, who overcomes numerous hardships to achieve her dreams.

Mystery

41. Murder 3 (2013)
    Rating: 5.0
    Synopsis: A woman’s suspicion about haunting and her boyfriend’s missing ex leads to unraveling a dark mystery.
42. A Thursday (2022)
    Rating: 7.7
    Synopsis: A playschool teacher takes hostages, sending shockwaves through the city, as authorities try to uncover her motives.
43. Kahaani (2012)
    Rating: 8.0
    Synopsis: A pregnant woman searches for her missing husband in Kolkata, leading to unexpected revelations.
44. Drishyam (2013)
    Rating: 8.4
    Synopsis: A man’s life turns upside down when he becomes the prime suspect in his daughter’s disappearance.
45. The Last Film Show (2022)
    Rating: 7.5
    Synopsis: A child’s love for cinema is tested as his life transforms when he discovers the world beyond his small village.

Animated

46. India: The Modi Question (2024)
    Rating: 8.0
    Synopsis: This film examines the complex political landscape of India through the eyes of its prominent figures.
47. The Jungle Book (1967)
    Rating: 7.6
    Synopsis: An animated classic where a young boy raised by wolves discovers his true identity amidst jungle adventures.
48. The Night of the Moon (2024)
    Rating: 6.9
    Synopsis: A magical adventure set in a fantastical land where moonlight holds secrets to an ancient mystery.
49. Chhota Bheem (2008)
    Rating: 6.8
    Synopsis: Follow the adventures of Chhota Bheem and his friends as they defend their village from evil forces.
50. Koochie Koochie Hota Hai (2009)
    Rating: 6.5
    Synopsis: An animated remake of the popular film, offering a fresh perspective and a new cast of characters.

Conclusion

Indian cinema is a world of its own, with its rich narratives and vibrant storytelling. This list of 50 films spans various genres, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring drama, thrillers, romance, or comedy, these films represent some of the best that Indian cinema has to offer. Happy watching!