2024 has been a standout year for Bollywood, delivering a diverse lineup of films that truly captured audiences’ hearts and minds. From gripping political thrillers to intense crime dramas, heartwarming comedies, and everything in between, the industry has made its mark with a bang. As the year draws to a close, why not take a nostalgic trip down the memory lane? Here’s our handpicked list of the top 10 Bollywood films from 2024, from box office hits to underrated gems (so you will find something for your palate whether you are a Bollywood fanatic or a casual enjoyer), all streaming on Netflix, to wrap up the year in cinematic style.
Jigra
Genre: Thriller, Action, Drama
Cast: Alia Bhatt, Vedang Raina, Manoj Pahwa, Rahul Ravindran, Vivek Gomber
Director: Vasan Bala
As we reflect on the best films of 2024, Jigra stands out as a bold and captivating exploration of power, loyalty, and the complexities of human emotion. At its heart is Satya, played brilliantly by Alia Bhatt, a fixer in a luxury hotel who is as resourceful as she is ruthless. When her younger brother, Ankur (Vedang Raina), is framed for drug crimes and sentenced to death in a foreign country with unforgiving laws, Satya will stop at nothing to bring him home.
What makes Jigra stand out is its layered storytelling. While the film is packed with gripping jailbreak sequences and a high-stakes plot, it’s also a deeply human story about familial bonds and survival. Bhatt is magnetic as Satya, a tightly wound fighter who teams up with unlikely allies—a former mob boss (Manoj Pahwa) and an ex-cop seeking redemption (Rahul Ravindran)—to execute her dangerous plan. Meanwhile, Ankur’s own arc unfolds within the prison as he rallies against the sadistic warden (Vivek Gomber), offering a raw look at camaraderie in the face of despair.
Though it struggled at the box office, Jigra has been widely praised by critics for its taut narrative, powerful performances, and emotional depth. Now streaming on Netflix as of 6 December, it’s the perfect thriller to immerse yourself in before the year ends.
Crew
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: Kareena Kapoor, Tabu, Kriti Sanon
Director: Rajesh Krishnan
From the makers of Veere Di Wedding, Crew delivered this year’s comedic relief we needed with a light-hearted yet stylish take on ambition, friendship, and the occasional misadventure. Directed by Rajesh Krishnan, the film revolves around three air hostesses—Geeta (Tabu), Jasmine (Kareena Kapoor), and Divya (Kriti Sanon)—who find themselves entangled in a web of circumstances where the line between necessity and greed begins to blur. What starts as a playful depiction of their glamorous, yet challenging lives takes a wild turn when a sudden opportunity for a heist, lands in their laps.
The film thrives on its casting coup, with Tabu, Kareena, and Kriti bringing their unique charm and comic timing to the forefront. Crew alternates between risky antics and risqué humour, ensuring an entertaining watch, all very well received by the audience. It’s a breezy blend of feel-good cinema and manicured emotions, perfectly tailored for the Instagram generation. The editing is sharp, and the loopy background score adds a playful vibe, keeping the audience engaged through the shenanigans of the upper middle class.
For those who enjoy films about women reclaiming their space in a male-dominated narrative, Crew is a refreshing addition. It’s not just about a heist but also a celebration of friendship and empowerment. This one is worth watching for its wit, glamour, and the dynamic chemistry between its leading ladies.
Sector 36
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Cast: Vikrant Massey, Deepak Dobriyal
Director: Ashwin Bhatnagar
Sector 36 emerged as one of the most talked-about films of 2024, taking audiences on a thrilling ride through the dark underbelly of a crime-ridden city. Directed by Ashwin Bhatnagar, this gritty and intense film earned rave reviews for its raw portrayal of police corruption and societal unrest. Vikrant Massey delivers a spine-tingling performance as Prem, a psychopathic killer whose calculated menace leaves you unsettled. Though it had all the recipes for a controversy, the movie managed to rise above that.
At the heart of the story is Ram Charan Pandey (Deepak Dobriyal), a sub-inspector who passively abides by the system until his daughter narrowly escapes being abducted by Prem, who dons a haunting Ravana mask. This brush with personal tragedy forces Ram into action, and the film unravels as a race against time to uncover the grim truths lurking in the slum’s shadows.
With echoes of the infamous Nithari killings, Sector 36 tackles themes of systemic apathy, class disparity, and personal vendettas. Saurabh Goswami’s cinematography, reminiscent of his work on Paatal Lok, enhances the film’s moody, mythology-tinged aesthetic, making the visuals as arresting as the narrative.
Though it eschews outright sensationalism, the film’s claustrophobic atmosphere and tightly woven plot make it a haunting portrayal of urban crime. Sector 36 is a must-watch for those who appreciate gritty, socially charged thrillers.
Srikanth
Genre: Biopic, Drama
Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Jyothika, Sharad Kelkar, Alaya F
Director: Tushar Hiranandani
Srikanth is one of the best inspirational biopics 2024 offered. It tells the incredible story of Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired industrialist who defied societal stereotypes to become a pioneer in his field. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, the film avoids the usual melodramatic pitfalls of disability narratives and instead offers a witty and insightful exploration of resilience, determination, and human connection.
Rajkummar Rao delivers a standout performance as Srikanth, capturing the spirit and fortitude of his character with remarkable authenticity. From his modest beginnings to becoming the owner of Bollant Industries, Srikanth’s journey is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Supported by a strong ensemble cast, including Jyothika as his mentor Divya, Sharad Kelkar as a visionary entrepreneur, and Alaya F as his steadfast partner Swathi, the film showcases the role of empathy and trust in shaping success.
While Srikanth excels in exploring the struggles and triumphs of its protagonist, it occasionally shifts into didactic territory, delivering a lesson on ableism that can feel heavy-handed. However, Rajkummar Rao’s nuanced portrayal keeps you engaged, particularly in scenes where his physicality and expressions bring depth to the character’s challenges and victories.
A story of grit, vision, and the power of human connection, Srikanth offers an important message: to treat individuals with disabilities as equals, not exceptions. It’s a compelling watch for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into breaking barriers.
Sikandar Ka Muqaddar
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Cast: Avinash Tiwary, Tamannaah Bhatia, Jimmy Shergill
Director: Sandeep Bhatnagar
A unique and powerful entry into 2024’s cinematic landscape, Sikhandar Ka Muqaddar offered a stirring narrative of ambition, power, and fate. Directed by Sandeep Bhatnagar, the film captivated audiences with its thought-provoking themes and unforgettable performances, particularly by the ever-charismatic Avinash Tiwari. Tackling social and political issues with nuance and depth, Sikhandar Ka Muqaddar is undoubtedly one of 2024’s defining cinematic moments.
The story begins with a daylight robbery at a high-profile jewellery exhibition, foiled just in time—only for five priceless solitaires to vanish amidst the chaos. Enter Jaswinder Singh (Jimmy Shergill), a no-nonsense cop whose stellar career is on the line as he interrogates three suspects: Mangesh Desai (Rajeev Mehta), a senior executive; Kamini Singh (Tamannaah Bhatia), a determined salesperson; and Sikandar Sharma (Avinash Tiwary), an enigmatic AV operator who seems to be at the heart of the mystery.
Avinash Tiwary delivers a standout performance as Sikandar, a man fighting to rebuild his life after being falsely accused. His dynamic with Tamannaah Bhatia’s Kamini—a single mother who offers him solace—adds emotional depth to the narrative. Jimmy Shergill brings intensity as the relentless Jaswinder, whose obsession with solving the case threatens to destroy his own life.
Pandey’s direction pays homage to the golden era of Bollywood crime dramas, but the film is firmly rooted in modern storytelling. Its exploration of justice, media sensationalism, and second chances keeps the audience hooked, even as it leans into monumental cinematic visuals.
Sikandar Ka Muqaddar is a thrilling ride, brimming with intrigue, human drama, and unexpected turns. It’s a must-watch for fans of high-stakes mysteries who thrives on some adrenaline fuelled thrill.
Merry Christmas
Genre: Romance, Thriller
Cast: Katrina Kaif, Vijay Sethupathi, Vinay Pathak
Director: Sriram Raghavan
Merry Christmas was undoubtedly one of the most gripping cinematic delights of 2024. With spellbinding performances by Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, Sriram Raghavan’s adaptation of Frederic Dard’s Bird in a Cage stands as a testament to the enduring charm of slow-burn thrillers. It’s a film that captivated audiences and critics alike, solidifying Raghavan’s mastery of suspense.
Albert (Vijay Sethupathi), recently bereaved, attempts to escape his grief by indulging in the city’s Christmas festivities. His night takes an intriguing turn when he meets Maria (Katrina Kaif), a captivating woman dining with her daughter and an oversized teddy bear—yet curiously, no father in sight. Maria’s magnetic charm and her faint air of mystery pull Albert in, and when she invites him to her home, he steps into an emotional labyrinth where nothing is as it seems.
Raghavan’s mastery lies in his ability to craft stories where the audience is privy to tantalising details but still left guessing. Drawing on literary and cinematic references, the film’s narrative feels rich and textured. With nods to Raymond Chandler, Hitchcockian suspense, and even classic Bollywood tunes, Merry Christmas seamlessly marries noir storytelling with an Indian sensibility.
Katrina Kaif delivers a nuanced performance, balancing allure and enigma, while Vijay Sethupathi shines as the everyman grappling with the shadows of his past and present. Vinay Pathak’s turn as a detective adds an extra layer of intrigue, making this more than just a game of cat and mouse.
With its melancholic wit and tension-laden plot, Merry Christmas keeps you invested and eager to revisit its layered storytelling. It’s an ideal pick for those who enjoy unravelling a mystery wrapped in psychological depth.
Laapata Ladies
Genre: Comedy, Social Satire
Cast: Sparsh Shrivastava, Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Bhaskar Jha
Director: Kiran Rao
Among the most memorable films of 2024, Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies delivered a heartfelt and humorous tale of mistaken identities and societal norms. The film’s unique blend of social commentary and light-hearted storytelling earned it widespread acclaim, making it a standout in a year filled with cinematic treasures. Despite missing out on an Oscar nod, it remains a crowd favourite and a testament to Rao’s storytelling finesse.
The story begins on a crowded passenger train where two newlywed couples inadvertently exchange spouses. Deepak Kumar (Sparsh Shrivastava) and Phool Kumari (Nitanshi Goel) are the picture of young, starry-eyed love, while Pradeep Singh (Bhaskar Jha) and Jaya Tripathi (Pratibha Ranta) embody a reluctant union. Thanks to the identical red veils worn by the brides and traditional customs that obscure their faces, the error goes unnoticed until it’s far too late. What follows is a madcap adventure that blends humour with poignant reflections on marriage, individuality, and societal expectations.
Rao’s deft direction ensures that the film’s inherent liveliness never overshadows its deeper messages. Her ability to balance effervescence with introspection creates a compelling narrative that resonates across generations. The ensemble cast delivers performances brimming with authenticity, with Pratibha Ranta and Nitanshi Goel standing out in their roles as women caught in a swirl of traditions and modernity.
Laapata Ladies is not just a comedic romp; it’s a subtle critique of rigid social structures told with warmth and charm. The film’s universal appeal, powered by its relatable characters and spirited storytelling, makes it a standout Bollywood offering. Now streaming on Netflix, this is one delightful ride you don’t want to miss.
Maharaj
Genre: Historical Drama
Cast: Junaid Khan, Shalini Pandey, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari Wagh
Director: Siddharth P. Malhotra
This year will be remembered for films that combined historical relevance with compelling storytelling, and Maharaj is no exception. Siddharth P. Malhotra’s powerful drama about journalist Karsandas Mulji’s fight against societal evils struck a chord with viewers and critics alike, earning its place as one of the year’s standout films. Junaid Khan’s stirring performance and the film’s bold themes have made Maharaj a cornerstone of this year’s cinematic legacy.
Far from being a conventional courtroom drama, the film delves into the societal and personal upheavals that led to the case, presenting a vivid portrayal of one man’s fight against exploitation disguised as faith.
At the heart of the story is Karsandas Mulji (Junaid Khan), a Gujarati journalist and reformer driven by his commitment to social justice. Known for his progressive ideas, Karsandas champions causes such as gender equality and widow remarriage, often facing backlash from a society steeped in superstition. His world takes a sharp turn when he learns of the exploitation of his fiancée, Kishori (Shalini Pandey), by a revered religious leader, Jadunath Maharaj, played with chilling menace by Jaideep Ahlawat.
Junaid Khan shines as Karsandas, embodying the reformist’s resilience and vulnerability with understated power. Shalini Pandey brings depth to Kishori, whose personal tragedy becomes a catalyst for change. Jaideep Ahlawat’s portrayal of Jadunath is as captivating as it is unsettling, making him an unforgettable antagonist.
Malhotra’s direction is sharp, balancing the film’s dramatic flair with moments of quiet reflection. The narrative is bolstered by compelling period details and a script that deftly blends historical accuracy with cinematic storytelling.
If you dig a good historical drama, give it a watch before the clock strikes twelve.
Amar Singh Chamkila
Genre: Biographical Drama
Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Parineeti Chopra
Director: Imtiaz Ali
Few films in 2024 captured the essence of a time and place as vividly as Amar Singh Chamkila. Imtiaz Ali’s ode to the controversial Punjabi singer brought alive the turbulent 80s Punjab while celebrating the music and life of a legend. With a career-defining performance by Diljit Dosanjh and A.R. Rahman’s electrifying soundtrack, Amar Singh Chamkila is a film that resonated deeply with audiences, cementing its place as one of the year’s finest.
Born Dhani Ram into a Dalit Sikh family, Chamkila’s raw lyrics about taboo topics like incest, infidelity, and rural hardships propelled him to fame in the 1980s, but his provocative persona made him a divisive figure.
On 8 March, 1988, Chamkila, along with his wife Amarjot and two troupe members, was gunned down in Mehsampur—a murder shrouded in mystery and shaped by the volatile socio-political climate of 1980s Punjab. While the case remains unsolved, Ali’s film does not delve into the crime’s murky depths, nor does it aim to decode the singer’s mythos. Instead, it leans into celebration over investigation, offering a visually rich but thematically restrained take on his life and artistry.
Diljit Dosanjh, blending his own vocal mastery with Chamkila’s music through live recordings. His portrayal casts Chamkila as a dreamy optimist, shy and idealistic, a characterisation that softens the singer’s notorious edge. Parineeti Chopra, playing Amarjot, brings grace to a limited role.
A great pick for anyone who indulges in movies based on true events.
Bhakshak
Genre: Crime, Drama
Cast: Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra, Aditya Srivastava
Director: Pulkit
By now it might be evident that this has been a year of hard-hitting cinema, and Bhakshak stands out as one of its most impactful films. Pulkit’s unflinching depiction of a journalist’s fight for justice in the shadow of the Muzaffarpur Shelter Home case left an indelible mark. Bhumi Pednekar’s nuanced performance, paired with a sensitive yet bold narrative, earned Bhakshak widespread acclaim, making it a defining film of the year.
Bhumi Pednekar shines as Vaishali Singh, a small-town journalist from Patna whose unyielding determination forms the crux of the story. Vaishali’s journey begins with a tip-off about minor girls being abused at a shelter home. Initially sceptical, she immerses herself in the horrifying details, uncovering a sinister web of power and exploitation
Pulkit and co-writer Jyotsana Nath deserve credit for crafting a well-rounded protagonist and handling the film’s sensitive subject matter with care. While the brutality of the crime is depicted unflinchingly, it avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the human cost and systemic failure. The makers strike a fine balance, delivering a hard-hitting narrative that is both empathetic and impactful.
Visually, Bhakshak opts for a gritty aesthetic that mirrors the dark underbelly of the world it portrays. The screenplay is taut, with moments of quiet tension that amplify the stakes. The film’s refusal to shy away from difficult truths, while maintaining a sense of dignity for its victims, is commendable.
Produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and featuring Sai Tamhankar in a pivotal role, Bhakshak easily fits into one of the best compelling drama this year.
Article 370
Genre: Political Drama
Cast: Yami Gautam, Priya Mani, Vaibhav Tatwawadi
Director: Aditya Suhas Jambhale
Among the year’s most thought-provoking releases, Article 370 took on a contentious issue with intelligence and grace. Aditya Suhas Jambhale’s balanced exploration of the abrogation of Article 370 stood out as a masterclass in cinematic storytelling. Yami Gautam’s compelling performance and the ensemble cast’s stellar work ensured that Article 370 was not only informative but also emotionally resonant, securing its place as one of the best films of 2024. The film treads a fine line, balancing political commentary with engaging storytelling, without delving too deeply into contentious waters in today’s fraught political climate. A genius tactic that absolved the film from numerous backlashes
Also starring, Priya Mani, and Vaibhav Tatwawadi in pivotal roles, the film unfolds as an exploration of the historical and social implications of the article’s removal. It highlights the constitutional and political manoeuvrings that led to the decision while shedding light on the human stories affected by the change.
Jambhale crafts a narrative that is informative yet gripping, steering clear of overt sensationalism. Instead, the film seeks to engage its audience with a nuanced take on the subject. It delves into the history and significance of Article 370 while addressing the controversies and debates surrounding its abrogation.
The cast delivered solid performances, adding depth to the film’s narrative. Yami Gautam Dhar, as the story’s emotional and moral anchor, is particularly effective in scenes that demand intensity and gravitas. Priya Mani and Vaibhav Tatwawadi bring credibility to their roles, while a talented supporting cast, including Skand Sanjeev Thakur, Arun Govil, Kiran Karmarkar, Rajendra Zutshi, and Adit Redij, ensures the ensemble remains cohesive and compelling.
Visually, Article 370 captured the contrasting landscapes and atmospheres of Kashmir, juxtaposing its natural beauty with the underlying tension and unrest. The screenplay is tight, maintaining a balance between informative exposition and emotional resonance and that is what makes it stands out from other movies made about Kashmir this year.
Looking back at 2024, it’s clear that the year truly had something for everyone. Whether it was the thrill of a gripping crime drama, the laughs from a clever comedy, or the heartfelt moments from films that made us think, this year’s lineup has been one of the best in recent memory. The stories, performances, and direction have pushed the boundaries of what we’ve come to expect from Indian cinema, and as we head into 2025, it’s exciting to imagine what the next chapter holds. If 2024 is any indication, we’re in for some unforgettable films in the years ahead.
