Bollywood is one of the largest movie industries in India, producing a significant amount of content every year. Catering to the diverse tastes of fans, the Hindi film industry has offered a mix of everything this year, from heavily commercial blockbusters to heartwarming, small-budget films. However, 2024 has been somewhat gloomy for Bollywood, with most films failing at the box office. Despite this, several smaller films have left a lasting impression on audiences.
While 2024 may not have been a blockbuster year for Bollywood, these films have left a mark with their strong storytelling and unforgettable performances. From heartwarming dramas to adrenaline-fueled thrillers, there’s something for every movie buff on this list. As we approach the end of 2024, let’s look at some must-watch movies before stepping into 2025.
Laapataa Ladies
Produced by Aamir Khan, this quirky comedy-drama is directed by Kiran Rao and tells the story of two brides who go missing on their wedding day while traveling on a train to their husbands’ homes. With its unique premise and strong performances, it’s a delightful watch for those who long for heart-touching content. Featuring newcomers Sparsh Srivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goel, alongside Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan, Lapata Ladies centers on self-reliance and the importance of education.
Amar Singh Chamkila
Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra bring the life of Punjabi music icon Amar Singh Chamkila to the big screen. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, this biopic captures the highs and lows of the controversial artist’s journey. The movie chronicles the life of the slain Punjabi folk singer, Amar Singh Chamkila, who was assassinated by his haters. His murder remains unsolved to this day. With its unique cinematography and extraordinary songs, this Netflix release is a highlight of the year.
Maidaan
Sports biopics often follow a predictable path, but Maidaan breaks the mold with its compelling narrative and presentation. Ajay Devgn shines in this sports drama based on the golden era of Indian football. Directed by Amit Sharma, the film narrates the inspiring story of Syed Abdul Rahim, the coach who revolutionized Indian football in the 1950s and 60s. Despite its predictability and long runtime, it’s a must-watch for sports film enthusiasts.
Do Aur Do Pyar
Who doesn’t enjoy a lighthearted rom-com on a cozy night? Starring Pratik Gandhi and Vidya Balan, this film revolves around a flawed and out-of-love married couple navigating the challenges of their relationship. Directed by newcomer Shirsha Guha Thakurta, Do Aur Do Pyar offers a refreshing take on modern marriage and its complexities. The film’s humor and on-screen chemistry make it a feel-good watch, now available on Disney+ Hotstar.
Bhakshak
Bhumi Pednekar delivers a standout performance in this hard-hitting social drama based on a journalist’s fight to uncover a human trafficking racket. Also starring Sanjay Mishra, Sai Tamhankar, and Aditya Srivastava, Bhakshak is a fictionalized retelling of an infamous 2018 case of sexual abuse uncovered at a government shelter home in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Directed by Pulkit, this Netflix film sheds light on a heinous crime and leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
All India Rank
This heartfelt coming-of-age drama is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for anyone who has been a student. Set in the 1990s, it captures the struggles of a 17-year-old boy preparing for IIT while balancing family pressures. Directed by debutant Varun Grover, All India Rank stars Bodhisattva Sharma and Sheeba Chaddha and is an emotional, relatable watch now streaming on Netflix.
The much-awaited sequel to the 2018 horror-comedy Stree brings back Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, and the beloved gang—Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee, and Aparshakti Khurana—in another spooky yet hilarious adventure. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the film became one of 2024’s highest-grossing hits, delivering exceptional performances, catchy songs, and memorable dialogues.
Sharmajee Ki Beti
Released directly on Prime Video, this slice-of-life film directed by Tahira Kashyap Khurrana explores the ups and downs of urban women navigating careers, family, and societal expectations. Featuring an ensemble cast including Divya Dutta, Sakshi Tanwar, and Saiyami Kher, the film offers humor, emotion, and relatability, making it an engaging watch.
Srikanth
Starring Rajkummar Rao, Jyothika, Alaya F, and Sharad Kelkar, this biopic explores the struggles and triumphs of Srikanth Bolla, a visually challenged industrialist who defied all odds to become a successful entrepreneur. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, Srikanth celebrates human resilience with heartwarming performances, especially by Rajkummar Rao, whose portrayal of the titular character is both nuanced and powerful. Available on Netflix, this film is a tribute to determination and grit.
Sector 36
This gripping investigative drama, inspired by the Nithari serial killings of 2005-2006, delves into the dark world of missing slum children, cannibalism, and rapes. Starring Vikrant Massey and Deepak Dobriyal, the film is an intense and haunting thriller directed by Aditya Nimbalkar. With a tightly written script and impactful performances, Sector 36 is streaming on Netflix but is not for the faint-hearted.
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