Cinema has long been an integral part of everyday life in India. Beyond Bollywood, several regional industries contribute equally to creating fascinating and groundbreaking content. This year has been a rollercoaster, with box office hits being few and far between.
As we approach the end of 2024, we’ve compiled a list of movies that have stood out for their impactful storytelling. These films highlight the diversity and creativity of Indian cinema. Whether you’re in the mood for laughs, thrills, or inspiration, this list has something for every cinephile. Meiyazhagan to Hanu-Man, we have a list of must-watch Indian movies before stepping into 2025.
This Tamil-language drama, written and directed by C. Prem Kumar, stars Karthi and Arvind Swamy in the titular roles. The film is a perfect blend of emotional moments and humorous elements, striking a chord with those who long for extended family, the simplicity of village life, and the warmth of being surrounded by loved ones. Both actors deliver outstanding performances. Meiyazhagan, available on Netflix, was a critically acclaimed film of 2024 and will surely leave you with a whirlwind of bittersweet emotions.
OTT – Netflix
This Malayalam horror-thriller stands out for its eerie atmosphere and gripping narrative. Starring Mammootty, the film hands down is the best movie of 2024 and a masterclass in building suspense and fear, leaving audiences spellbound. Credit for the film’s unique storytelling and intricate detailing goes to director Rahul Sadasivan, who made the bold decision to shoot the entire movie in monochrome. Brahmayugam is available on SonyLIV.
OTT – Sony LIV
Written and directed by Jithu Madhavan, Aavesham is a delightful gangster comedy that follows the story of three youngsters who move to Bengaluru for their engineering education. They soon befriend a local gangster to help them take revenge against a college bully. This well-written movie is one of the most popular films of 2024, featuring witty dialogues, rooted humor, and stellar performances, particularly by Fahadh Faasil, who appears in a completely new avatar. The film is available to stream on Prime Video and Hotstar.
OTT – Sony LIV
The top Tamil movie of 2024 is Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi. This Tamil action-thriller masterfully blends suspense and twists with high-octane sequences. Directed by Nithilan Saminathan, Maharaja is packed with powerful dialogues, emotional depth, and moments of cinematic brilliance. Both Sethupathi and Anurag Kashyap deliver terrific performances. The film is available on Netflix.
OTT – Netflix
This visually stunning Malayalam movie keeps the audience engaged with its gripping narrative and brilliant screenplay. Starring Asif Ali and Aparna Balamurali, this is one of the best thriller movies released in 2024, which revolves around a newly married couple and the peculiar disturbances they face. Kishkinda Kaandam keeps you guessing until the end with its sharp plot while creating an emotional connection with the audience. The film is now streaming on Hotstar.
OTT – Disney+ Hotstar
Part of Prasanth Varma’s superhero cinematic universe, Hanu-Man blends Indian mythology with modern storytelling. Teja Sajja’s portrayal of the titular character adds charm, while the VFX-heavy sequences provide a visual treat. This Telugu regional superhero film was a global hit and one of a kind sci-fi movies to come out from India in 2024. Fans are eagerly awaiting its sequel. Hanu-Man is available to stream on Zee5, Hotstar, and Jio Cinema.
OTT – Disney+ Hotstar
This Tamil drama by Mari Selvaraj is an underrated Indian movie of 2024 that beautifully captures the struggles and aspirations of raw banana plantation workers in rural India. Known for his understated yet impactful storytelling, Selvaraj delivers another gem that tugs at the heartstrings. Vaazhai is available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar.
OTT – Disney+ Hotstar
This Kannada-language comedy-drama, written and directed by M. Bharath Raj, stars Pramod Shetty, Teju Belawadi, Sundar Raj, and Diganth. The story revolves around a foodie cop who is tasked with losing weight to avoid dismissal from his job. Can he shed the pounds? That question drives the lighthearted and entertaining plot. Laughing Buddha is for sure one of the best regional films of 2024, which can be streamed on Prime Video.
OTT – Prime Video
This Malayalam comedy-drama celebrates male friendship and the small joys of life. Directed by Chidambaram S. Poduval, Manjummel Boys offers a nostalgic and lighthearted journey that resonates with audiences of all ages. The film’s synopsis reveals: “The boys’ adventure takes a dangerous turn when one of them plunges into Guna Caves, igniting a test of unity in a fight for survival.” A sensation upon its release, the film can be counted among the top Malayalam movies of 2024, which is available on Hotstar.
OTT – Disney+ Hotstar
A unique Telugu film with a mystical undertone, Gaami explores themes of spirituality, destiny, and self-discovery and can be placed in the list of the most inspiring movies of 2024. Directed by Vidyadhar Kagita, the film’s stunning cinematography and soulful narrative make it a standout this year. StarringVishwak Sen, Ramya Pasupileti, and Chandani Chowdary, Gaami is available to stream on Zee5.
OTT – Zee5
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