29 Best Indian Movies of 2024 You Shouldn’t Miss
Indian cinema in 2024 has proven once again to be a powerful medium for storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences while offering a gateway to diverse worlds. In a time when the collective experience of cinema evolves, these films remind us of its unparalleled ability to evoke emotions, inspire, and transport viewers into lives and landscapes far removed from their own. Whether through tales of resilience, profound self-discovery, or heartwarming celebrations of life, the best Indian movies of the year masterfully intertwine escapism with meaning, making each viewing an unforgettable journey.
From the surreal to the deeply personal, these films redefine the essence of storytelling. Manjummel Boys invites us into a fantastical odyssey as friends rally together to save one of their own, while The Goat Life transforms a harrowing true story of survival into a poignant exploration of inner strength. Meanwhile, the Netflix biopic Amar Singh Chamkila immortalizes the singer’s defiance against censorship, and All We Imagine as Light radiates hope through its tender portrayal of love and community. These cinematic gems not only captivate but also challenge viewers to reflect, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of Indian cinema.
All We Imagine as Light (Malayalam, Hindi, Marathi)
All We Imagine as Light is the best movies of 2024, written and directed by Payal Kapadia. The cast includes Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam and Hridhu Haroon. Featuring Malayalam, Hindi, and Marathi dialogue.
In Mumbai, Nurse Prabha’s routine is troubled when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. Her younger roommate, Anu, tries in vain to find a spot in the city to be intimate with her boyfriend. A trip to a beach town allows them to find a space for their desires to manifest.
Where to watch: Amazon (buy/rent)
Manjummel Boys (Malayalam)
It is based on a real story, Guna Caves rescue in 2006. The film follows a group of friends from a small locality called Manjummel in Kochi, who decide to have a vacation in Kodaikanal, which is affected when one of them becomes trapped in the Guna Caves.
The film is one of the best Indian movies of 2024, written and directed by Chidambaram. It stars an ensemble cast, which includes Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Balu Varghese, Ganapathi S. Poduval, Lal Jr., Deepak Parambol, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Arun Kurian, Khalid Rahman and Shebin Benson.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Maharaja (Tamil)
It is one of the best Indian thriller movies of 2024 directed by Nithilan Saminathan. It stars Vijay Sethupathi in the titular role, alongside Anurag Kashyap, Mamta Mohandas, Natty Subramaniam, Abhirami Gopikumar, Divyabharathi, Singampuli, Aruldoss, Munishkanth, Sachana Namidass, Manikandan and Bharathiraja. The film follows Maharaja, a barber in Chennai, who goes to the police station to retrieve his stolen dustbin only for the police officers to find his intentions to be something else.
It stands out as a compelling revenge drama that successfully blends societal issues with commercial cinema elements. Vijay Sethupathi delivers a standout performance, embodying a well-crafted role that showcases his range and depth. The film’s tightly constructed screenplay by Nithilan Swaminathan rejuvenates the revenge genre with morally challenging revelations and gripping sequences.
Where to watch: Netflix
Amar Singh Chamkila (Hindi)
Biographical drama film based on the life of musician Amar Singh Chamkila. It is directed, produced and co-written by Imtiaz Ali. The film stars Diljit Dosanjh in the titular role, with Parineeti Chopra as his second wife, Amarjot.
A humble singer’s brash lyrics ignite fame and fury across Punjab as he grapples with soaring success and brutal criticism before his untimely death.
Amar Singh Chamkila received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising Dosanjh and Chopra ‘s performances, the film’s soundtrack, and Ali’s direction.
Where to watch: Netflix
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Merry Christmas (Tamil, Hindi)
Mystery thriller film directed by Sriram Raghavan, a Hindi-Tamil bilingual, stars Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, alongside Ashwini Kalsekar, Luke Kenny, and Pari Maheshwari Sharma.
The film follows on Christmas Eve, Albert returns home after several years of being away. Grieving for and adjusting to the loss of his mother, he steps out seeking cheer in the city’s Christmas Eve festivities. He meets the beautiful and mysterious Maria, and her little daughter who is mute. The night fans into long walks and conversations, sparking unexpected, but undeniable, magnetism between Albert and Maria. For Maria, Albert is everything she could have asked for… And for Albert, Maria is nothing short of a Christmas miracle. But things soon take a dark turn and an evening of romance turns into a nightmare.
Where to watch: Netflix
Meiyazhagan (Tamil)
Life is always beautiful with all twist and turns. We cannot definitely judge on our future life but running Our current life and collecting our past life is wonderful. All members come through our life plays a important role. Certain people stick with us with loads of love and improve, few look out for our wealth and few play an empty role.
Written and directed by C. Prem Kumar. The film stars Karthi and Arvind Swamy in the lead roles alongside Rajkiran, Sri Divya, Devadarshini, Jayaprakash, Sriranjani, Ilavarasu, Karunakaran and Saran Shakthi. It received critical acclaim from critics who praised the lead cast’s performances (especially Karthi and Aravind Swamy), storyline, Govind Vasantha’s background score, emotional scenes and Premkumar’s screenplay and direction.
Where to watch: Netflix
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Aavesham (Malayalam)
A gangster boss often makes merry with his goons at the liquor bar when not involved in fights with locals over some issues. He becomes protective of three students of the local college who approach him for help as they are being troubled by their college seniors.
Written and directed by Jithu Madhavan. It stars Fahadh Faasil, Hipzster, Mithun Jai Shankar, Roshan Shanavas and Sajin Gopu with Midhutty and Mansoor Ali Khan.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar
[Related Content: 27 Best Malayalam Movies of 2024]
Aattam (Malayalam)
It is one of the best Malayalam movies of 2024, written and directed by Anand Ekarshi. It stars Zarin Shihab, Vinay Forrt, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Aji Thiruvamkulam, Jolly Antony, Madan Babu K., Nandhan Unni, Prasanth Madhavan, Sanosh Murali, Santhosh Piravom, Selvaraj Raghavan V. R., Sijin Sijeesh, and Sudheer Babu.
Late after a party amongst a theatre group, their sole actress, Anjali, is groped by one of the twelve men of the group. An urgent meeting between all but the accused is called for. In trying to reach a consensus on his expulsion, stories unravel, suspicions surface, and clamor ensues.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Laapataa Ladies (Hindi)
Follow the misadventures of two young brides who get lost from the same train! From mistaken identities to laugh-out-aloud escapades, the ensuing chaos guarantees laughter galore and heartwarming moments.
Laapataa Ladies is directed by Kiran Rao, starring Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan. The film was selected as the Indian entry for the Best International Feature Film for the 97th Academy Awards, but was not nominated.
Where to watch: Netflix
Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life (Malayalam)
It is an adaptation of the 2008 best-selling Malayalam novel Aadujeevitham by Benyamin, which is based on the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant laborer in the Gulf.
The film written, directed, and co-produced by Blessy. It stars Prithviraj Sukumaran alongside Jimmy Jean-Louis and K. R. Gokul, Talib Al Balushi, Rik Aby, Amala Paul and Shobha Mohan.
Where to watch: Netflix
Ullozhukku (Malayalam)
Ullozhukku emerges as one of the best Indian movies of 2024 due to its deeply resonant storytelling and powerhouse performances, particularly by Urvashi and Parvathy. The follows, a family’s attempt to bury a loved one is thwarted by floodwaters, forcing them to confront long-buried secrets and lies that threaten their unity.
The film written and directed by Christo Tomy. The film stars Urvashi and Parvathy Thiruvothu, with Arjun Radhakrishnan, Alencier Ley Lopez, Prashanth Murali, and Jaya Kurup appearing in supporting roles
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Girls Will Be Girls (Hindi, English)
Coming-of-age drama film written and directed by Shuchi Talati. It stars Preeti Panigrahi, Kani Kusruti, and Kesav Binoy Kiron. The film is Talati’s feature directorial debut, as well as the acting debut of both Panigrahi and Kiron. On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 100% of 51 critics’ reviews are positive, with an average rating of 8.2/10.
The film is set in a boarding school in the Himalayan foothills, and centers around the teenage protagonist Mira’s romance with a charming new student, her subsequent sexual awakening, and at times strained relationship to her protective mother.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Kottukkaali (Tamil)
Kottukkaali (The Adamant Girl) is directed by P. S. Vinothraj and produced by SK Productions. The film, which revolves around Meena who loves a man from a lower caste but her family thinks she is possessed and cast the spell out of her, stars Soori and Anna Ben (in her Tamil debut).
Thanks to PS Vinothraj’s masterful direction and exceptional performances by Anna Ben and Soori. The film intricately portrays the oppressive dynamics of patriarchy and caste through subtle symbolism, like Meena’s silent resilience mirrored by the trapped rooster. Anna Ben delivers a career-defining performance, embodying Meena’s steadfast spirit with minimal dialogue, while Soori’s portrayal of the volatile Pandi adds layers to the narrative. The absence of music enhances the raw and unfiltered storytelling, immersing viewers in the dysfunctional family’s reality.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, aha
Kishkindha Kaandam (Malayalam)
This film shines as one of the finest Indian movies of 2024, blending a flawless screenplay with a masterfully crafted mystery that captivates from start to finish. Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, and Vijayaraghavan deliver exceptional performances, adding emotional depth and intensity to the narrative. The film’s slow-burn approach, coupled with smooth scripting and smart direction, creates a rewarding experience for fans of psychological dramas.
The story takes place in the monkey-inhabited Kallepathi reserve forest where ex-military officer Appu Pillai and his son Ajay Chandran, a forest officer, reside. Dinjith Ayyathan’s direction transforms the unhurried pace into a powerful buildup, culminating in a riveting finale.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Vaazhai (Tamil)
12-year-old Sivanaindhan lives with his mother, sister, and friend in the village of Plantain Plantations. Hoping to seek a merry life, he lugs Plantains even during school holidays. Will his hard work pay off?
Written, co-produced and directed by Mari Selvaraj. It stars debutantes Ponvel M., Raghul R., Kalaiyarasan and Nikhila Vimal in the lead roles, alongside J. Satish Kumar, Dhivya Duraisamy, Karnan Janaki and Nivedita Rajappan.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
I Want to Talk (Hindi)
Directed by Shoojit Sircar, written by Ritesh Shah and produced by Rising Sun Films and Kino Works. The film stars Abhishek Bachchan in the lead role and is based on the true story of Arjun Sen, a cancer survivor facing life-altering surgery as well as navigating a complex relationship with his daughter (Ahilya Bamroo) since her childhood.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Bramayugam (Malayalam)
Period folk horror and thriller film written and directed by Rahul Sadasivan. It stars Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan and Sidharth Bharathan.
In ancient Kerala, where Tantra/Maya held sway, Thevan, a novice singer from a caste of folk singers (Paanan), narrowly escapes from slavers and finds himself lost. While fleeing, he stumbles upon an eerie household in the middle of a forest with a seemingly benevolent master and his servant. The master welcomes him, but it soon becomes clear that he is a malevolent goblin from folklore known as Chaathan, who has taken on the master’s identity. The creature from darkness ensnares anyone who enters the house as its lifelong servants. The story delves into whether Thevan and the current first servant can break free from the goblin’s control.
Where to watch: SonyLIV
Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 (Hindi)
It is a sequel to the 2010 film Love Sex Aur Dhokha (LSD). Its narrative is a blend of found footage and screenlife format. The film written by Dibakar Banerjee, Shubham, Prateek Vats, and directed by Dibakar Banerjee. The film features Paritosh Tiwari, Bonita Rajpurohit, Abhinav Singh, and Swaroopa Ghosh in the lead roles.
It offers a visually striking and thematically ambitious exploration of the darker aspects of digital life, though it divides opinion with its unconventional approach. Dibakar Banerjee’s direction channels societal frustrations into a narrative that is both provocative and politically charged. The film excels in its technical execution and daring commentary on corporates, algorithms, and surveillance culture, delivering moments of startling accuracy and trenchant observations.
Where to watch: Netflix
Kill (Hindi)
Army commando Amrit (Lakshya) finds out his true love Tulika (Tanya Maniktala) is en-route, he boards a New Delhi-bound train in a daring quest to derail the their eventual seperation. But when a gang of knife-wielding thieves led by the ruthless leader (Raghav Juyal) begin to terrorize innocent passengers on his train, Amrit takes them on himself in a death-defying kill-spree to save those around him – turning what should have been a typical commute into an adrenaline-fueled thrill ride.
It is one of the best action thriller movies of 2924, directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, which is inspired by a train robbery experienced by Bhat in 1995, it also stars Ashish Vidyarthi, Harsh Chhaya, and Abhishek Chauhan.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Stree 2 (Hindi)
Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank is a comedy horror film directed by Amar Kaushik, written by Niren Bhatt. It is the fourth installment in the Maddock Supernatural Universe and serves as the sequel to Stree (2018). The film stars Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana.
It brings humor, horror, and social commentary to the forefront, continuing its predecessor’s legacy with a fresh antagonist and spirited performances. Rajkummar Rao shines as Vicky, while Shraddha Kapoor and Abhishek Banerjee enhance the film’s appeal. The clever script introduces Sarkata, a male villain targeting modern women, which adds layers of satire on societal norms.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Viduthalai Part 2 (Tamil)
The direct sequel to Viduthalai Part 1 (2023), it is the second of a two-part adaptation of Jeyamohan’s short story Thunaivan. Can a simple, law-abiding, and peace-loving young school teacher transform into a people`s leader, forming a small political party, engaging in armed rebellion, and rallying people to revolt?
Period political crime thriller film directed and co-produced by Vetrimaaran. Soori, Vijay Sethupathi, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Bhavani Sre, Rajiv Menon, Ilavarasu, Balaji Sakthivel, Saravana Subbiah, Chetan and Munnar Ramesh reprise their roles from the first film, with Manju Warrier, Kishore, Anurag Kashyap, Bose Venkat, Vincent Asokan and Ken Karunas joining the ensemble cast.
Where to watch: ZEE5
Berlin (Hindi)
Set in New Delhi, India, in 1993, the film follows a deaf-mute young man (Ashok Singh) who is accused of being a foreign spy. A sign language expert (Aparshakti Khurana) is brought in to interpret for the government during his interrogation. As the mystery unfolds, the line between guilt and innocence becomes blurred, and the sign language expert finds himself caught in a dangerous web of deceit and political intrigue.
Spy thriller film written and directed by Atul Sabharwal, produced by Zee Studios and Yippie Ki Yay Motion Pictures. It stars Aparshakti Khurana, Ishwak Singh, Rahul Bose, Anupriya Goenka, and Kabir Bedi. It offers a distinctive take on the spy thriller genre, blending suspense, atmosphere, and nuanced character dynamics. Aparshakti Khurana and Ishwak Singh deliver compelling performances, their chemistry embodying the tension and restlessness of the narrative.
Where to watch: ZEE5
Saramsha (Kannada)
Tejas is a C.A, who wants to be a writer. One evening, his world collides with Abhay`s. A story begins to unfold in front of him. He is faced with a character in his story. In the realm of magical realism, an emotional drama unfolds.
The film written and directed by Surya Vasishta. The film is produced by Ravi Kashyap and RK Nallam. The film stars Deepak Subramanya, Surya Vasishta, Sruthi Hariharan, Shweta Gupta, Aasif Kshatriya and Ravi Bhat in lead roles.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
[Related Content: 23 Best Kannada Movies of 2024 (So Far): Where to Watch Them]
Despatch (Hindi)
It’s a crime drama film directed by Kanu Behl. It stars Manoj Bajpayee, Shahana Goswami, Arrchita Agarwaal, Anand Alkunte, Riju Bajaj, Purnendu Bhattacharya, and Prithvik Pratap.
News has turned digital, leaving veteran crime journalist Joy at the cusp of irrelevance. Determined to break the next big story and refashion his complicated personal life, Joy embarks on a relentless odyssey through the heart and gut of Mumbai, stumbling into its darkest corners.
Where to watch: ZEE5
CTRL (Hindi)
It is a bold and visually immersive thriller that examines the pervasive influence of AI and social media on modern lives. Vikramaditya Motwane showcases his talent for reimagining established genres, creating a gripping narrative rooted in the chilling realities of data privacy.
Ananya Panday delivers a compelling performance, effectively conveying the emotional depth of her character, Nella, while Vihaan Samat and the supporting cast add layers to the story. The film’s real-time format, striking visuals, and eerie atmosphere make it a standout exploration of technology’s impact.
Where to watch: Netflix
Munjya (Hindi)
Munjya is also a hot film of 2024 both critically and financially, the film emerged as a sleeper hit, grossing ₹132.13 crore worldwide against a production cost of ₹30 crore, becoming the eighth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2024.
Comedy horror film directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and starring Sharvari, Abhay Verma, Sathyaraj and Mona Singh. The titular character was entirely created using CGI. It is the third installment in the Maddock Supernatural Universe and focuses on the legend of Munjya, inspired by Indian folklore and mythology.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Fairy Folk (Hindi)
The film was written and directed by Karan Gour and produced by Annukampa Harsh, Siddharth Bhatia, Karan Gour, and Tejash Shah. It stars Rasika Dugal, Mukul Chadda, and Nikhil Desai.
Thorny questions of love and sexuality take centre stage in this magical realist drama in which a genderless woodland being crashes into the lives of a jaded couple.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Lubber Pandhu (Tamil)
Sports drama film directed by Tamizharasan Pachamuthu, in his directorial debut. It stars Gethu Dinesh and Harish Kalyan in the lead roles, alongside Sanjana Krishnamoorthy, Swasika, Bala Saravanan, Kaali Venkat, Geetha Kailasam, Devadarshini, TSK, Jenson Diwakar and Pradeep Durairaj.
Set against the rural backdrop, the film explores the exciting world of gully cricket focusing on the intense rivalry between two star players, Gethu and Anbu. When Anbu, gets romantically involved with Gethu`s daughter their rivalry escalates into a dramatic clash. The story builds to a climactic showdown where their skills and emotions are put to the ultimate test.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Premalu (Malayalam)
Premalu is one of the best romantic comedy movies of 2024, directed by Girish A. D. It stars Naslen K. Gafoor and Mamitha Baiju, alongside Sangeeth Prathap, Akhila Bhargavan, Shyam Mohan, Meenakshi Raveendran, Mathew Thomas and Althaf Salim.
In the film, Sachin Santhosh, a graduate from Kerala, plans on moving to UK, but instead goes to Hyderabad and take a GATE course, where he meets and falls in love with Reenu Roy, an employee of an IT company.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar, Aha
