Harsh Vardhan
Dive into the vibrant world of Indian cinema with our curated list of the best Bollywood movies on Amazon Prime. Unveiling a cinematic tapestry that transcends borders and cultures, this selection is a kaleidoscope of storytelling brilliance, where every frame weaves a unique tale of love, ambition, and resilience. From heartwarming classics that echo through generations to avant-garde masterpieces pushing the boundaries of storytelling, these films are a testament to Bollywood’s cinematic prowess. Join us on a cinematic odyssey that celebrates the rich heritage of Indian cinema, showcasing the amalgamation of compelling narratives, mesmerizing performances, and awe-inspiring visuals, all conveniently accessible on Amazon Prime.
30. Runway 34 (2022)
In the Hindi-language thriller ‘Runway 34,’ helmed by Ajay Devgn, the plot unfolds around the skilled pilot, Captain Vikrant Khanna, preparing for a flight from Dubai to Cochin. Despite a night of revelry, Khanna boards the flight with co-pilot Tanya Albuquerque. When a cyclone diverts the flight to Trivandrum, Khanna’s decision sparks an investigation led by AAIB Head Narayan Vedant.
Albuquerque’s unintentional revelation about Khanna’s closed-eye landing sparks suspicion. In a gripping twist, Khanna’s photographic memory is revealed, showcasing his remarkable skill. Though suspended for three months, his daring feat highlights his exceptional ability, making ‘Runway 34’ an unconventional thriller in Bollywood. You can check it out here.
29. Tiger 3 (2023)
Directed by Maneesh Sharma, ‘Tiger 3’ is the third installment of the ‘Tiger’ film franchise, after ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ (2012) and ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ (2017), it is the fifth installment of the Yash Raj Films’ Spy Universe, set after the events of ‘War’ (2019) and ‘Pathaan’ (2023). While you may not choose to watch the first two Tiger movies, we suggest you do so to be aware of the character developments.
The ‘Tiger’ movies follow Salman Khan as Avinash Singh Rathore, aka Tiger, the most fierce agent in the history of RAW (Research and Analysis Wing), India’s foreign intelligence agency. ‘Tiger 3’ centers on Tiger and his wife Zoya (Katrina Kaif), a Pakistani agent, as they try to prevent a Pakistani-agent-turned-terrorist named Aatish Rehman (Emraan Hashmi) from pulling off a coup against the Pakistani government. Filled with action from beginning to end, the movie is one of the costliest Indian movies to date. You can watch it here.
28. Pathaan (2023)
In this adrenaline-fueled Indian action extravaganza, ‘Pathaan,’ we follow the journey of an Indian operative racing against time to thwart an impending attack by a menacing mercenary group led by the unforgiving Jim. As doomsday looms, Pathaan teams up with his trusted ally, Agent Rubai, to confront Jim and prevent the catastrophic devastation he intends to unleash. While the film elicited a mixed reception, it doesn’t hold back on delivering a plethora of heart-pounding action sequences, albeit with the extensive use of CGI, ensuring ample entertainment for enthusiasts of the genre.
Shah Rukh Khan reclaims the spotlight as the eponymous lead, seamlessly partnered with Deepika Padukone in yet another riveting cinematic collaboration. Salman Khan also graces the screen with his presence. However, the true gem in the crown, despite sharing less screen time with the charismatic Shah Rukh Khan, is John Abraham, who astutely embodies the villainous character of Jim. You may watch ‘Pathaan’ here.
27. Kapoor & Sons (2016)
Beneath its seemingly simple exterior, ‘Kapoor and Sons’ unveils a tender narrative of a family reunited by the return of two brothers to their ailing grandfather’s side. Yet, Shakun Batra’s masterpiece delves deeper, addressing sensitive themes with grace and subtly reshaping Bollywood norms. This movie refrains from Bollywood stereotypes, redefining Indian cinema’s portrayal of delicate issues. At its core, the film resonates as a heartwarming saga, spotlighting the unbreakable bonds forged by a family during trying times. Starring Rishi Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Malhotra, and Fawad Khan, it’s a refreshingly authentic take on familial dynamics, earning its spot as a Bollywood game-changer. You may watch the film here.
26. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,’ affectionately known as DDLJ, is a revered romantic Bollywood classic directed by Aditya Chopra. The film tells the story of Raj and Simran, portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, who meet and fall in love during a European vacation but face familial opposition upon returning to India. With its timeless tale of love, honor, and tradition, the film captured hearts worldwide. DDLJ is iconic for its unforgettable performances, remarkable chemistry between the lead pair, and memorable music. It redefined romance in Indian cinema, setting a gold standard for love stories, and continues to be cherished by generations, making it a legendary cinematic milestone. You can stream ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ here.
25. Shakuntala Devi (2020)
‘Shakuntala Devi’ is a biographical drama directed by Anu Menon, portraying the extraordinary life of the “Human Computer” from India, Shakuntala Devi, brilliantly portrayed by Vidya Balan. The film explores the life of the mathematical prodigy, showcasing her journey from a young girl with exceptional skills to a worldwide sensation. With a talented ensemble cast including Sanya Malhotra, Jisshu Sengupta, and Amit Sadh, the movie dives into the complexities of Shakuntala Devi’s personal and professional life. It’s a powerful narrative that celebrates individuality, women’s empowerment, and the struggles of genius. You may watch the film here.
24. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
In the vibrant era of 2000s Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan emerged as a cinematic powerhouse, delivering one hit after another. Amidst his myriad classics, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho,’ directed by Nikkhil Advani, stands out as a fan favorite. Khan portrays a terminally ill patient who embraces life with unmatched zeal. His profound impact on those around him transforms this film into a profoundly heartwarming experience.
Khan’s charismatic performance is complemented by a stellar cast, including Preity Zinta, Saif Ali Khan, and Jaya Bachchan, all weaving a tale of love, friendship, and life’s impermanence. Backed by a soul-stirring soundtrack, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ isn’t just a movie; it’s a complete Bollywood journey, captivating hearts with its poignant storytelling and unforgettable characters. You can watch the movie here.
23. Section 375 (2019)
‘Section 375,’ directed by Ajay Bahl, is a compelling legal drama that delves into the complexities of a rape case in India. The film follows a celebrated defense lawyer, Tarun Saluja (Akshaye Khanna), who is tasked with representing a film director accused of sexually assaulting a costume assistant (Meera Chopra). Rich in courtroom intensity, the movie challenges societal biases and legal loopholes.
Rich performances by Khanna and Chopra, along with a strong supporting cast including Rahul Bhat and Kruttika Desai, elevate the film. Its nuanced exploration of consent, power dynamics, and justice within the Indian legal system makes ‘Section 375’ a standout film, provoking thoughtful discussions and reflecting the harsh realities of society. You can stream the film here.
22. Don (2006)
In ‘Don,’ Shah Rukh Khan delivers a mesmerizing performance that further cements his status as one of India’s most celebrated actors. This enthralling crime thriller follows Vijay, a doppelgänger of the leader of an international smuggling ring. Pursued by a relentless police officer, circumstances take a dark turn when the officer meets his demise, leaving Vijay to navigate treacherous waters.
A remake of the 1978 classic, which starred Amitabh Bachchan in the titular role, this adaptation stands as a brilliant work in its own right, positioning Khan as the quintessential modern-day Don. Priyanka Chopra shines in her role, complementing the film’s intrigue. Director Farhan Akhtar’s execution mirrors a James Bond-style cinematic spectacle, earning enduring acclaim. ‘Don’ remains a timeless testament to Bollywood’s prowess in crafting thrilling and stylish narratives. You can stream the movie here.
21. Dhoom 2 (2006)
‘Dhoom 2’ is a Bollywood heist action thriller featuring a star-studded cast, including Hrithik Roshan, Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra, and Bipasha Basu, all delivering captivating performances. The film follows the enigmatic Mr. A, a cunning international thief. In this chapter, he audaciously plots to steal the Queen of England’s crown, setting off a cascade of exhilarating chases and adventures.
True to Bollywood’s signature style, the movie embraces its lengthy runtime, offering a delightful feel-good experience. Balancing action, humor, suspense, and romance, it caters to fans of various genres. While Western moviegoers might find it a departure, ardent Bollywood enthusiasts will revel in its joyous charm despite its extended duration. You can enjoy the movie here.
20. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)
Directed by Karan Johar, ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ is a family drama with a stellar star-cast that includes Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt, Tota Roy Chowdhury, Churni Ganguly, Shabana Azmi, Jaya Bachchan, Aamir Bashir, Anjali Anand, and Dharmendra. It follows Rocky, a Punjabi guy, and Rani, a Bengali woman, who are a couple who decide to live in each other’s houses for three months to understand the culture. Their respective experiences lead to cold wars and mishaps between the two families that almost lead to their breakup. Was their decision wrong? Or was it right? To find out, you can watch the film here.
19. Detective Byomkesh Bakshy (2015)
Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, ‘Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!’ is a gripping Bollywood mystery film based on the iconic fictional detective character created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. Set in 1943 Calcutta during World War II, the film follows the young and brilliant detective Byomkesh Bakshy, played brilliantly by Sushant Singh Rajput. Bakshy is hired to solve the case of a missing man, which leads him into a complex web of crime, deceit, and political intrigue.
The film is a visual treat, capturing the essence of the era beautifully, and Banerjee’s direction infuses it with a noirish, atmospheric quality. The strong performances, especially by Rajput, coupled with the engaging storyline and meticulous attention to detail, make ‘Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!’ a standout Bollywood movie, offering a refreshing take on the detective genre. You may watch it here.
18. A Death in the Gunj (2017)
Konkona Sen Sharma takes the director’s chair in ‘A Death in the Gunj,’ a poignant coming-of-age tale that revolves around Shutu, grappling with his complex notions of masculinity. Trapped within the hazy boundaries of societal expectations, he embarks on a personal journey, carving his niche in a perplexing world. This indie Bollywood gem boasts a stellar ensemble cast featuring Vikrant Massey, Kalki Koechiln, Om Puri, Gulshan Devaiah, Ranvir Shorey, and Jim Sarbh. ‘A Death in the Gunj’ stands as the epitome of unconventional Indian cinema, a must-watch that delves deep into the human psyche and defies mainstream norms. You can watch it here.
17. Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012)
Directed by Yash Raj Chopra, ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ stars Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma, and Katrina Kaif. The movie tells the story of bomb disposal expert Major Samar Anand of the Indian Army, whom photographer journalist Akira struggles to get clear footage of. As she slowly falls for the guy, she comes across his diary, which reveals his tragic past. Before Samar joined the army, he was a part-time waiter/ musician performing in the streets of London. That’s when he fell in love with Meera, who reciprocated his feelings, too, and even broke her engagement. However, Samar’s tragic accident made Meera pray to God that if he healed Samar, she would leave him. Samar heals, Meera leaves, and Samar returns to India, angry at God. He thus trains and becomes a bomb expert, challenging God to take his life. Will Akira be able to reunite the two broken lovers? To find out, you can watch the movie here.
16. Rock On!! (2008)
‘Rock On!!,’ directed by Abhishek Kapoor, broke new ground in Bollywood with its pioneering take on the music and friendship genre. The film revolves around four friends who reunite to relive their youthful dreams of forming a rock band. Kapoor’s direction flawlessly captures the essence of the characters’ aspirations and the power of their camaraderie. At the time of its release, ‘Rock On!!’ introduced a refreshing wave of musical storytelling to Bollywood, challenging conventional cinematic narratives and resonating with the youth. It celebrated the spirit of chasing one’s dreams and the enduring bonds of friendship, making it a breath of fresh air in the Indian film industry. Feel free to check out the movie here.
15. Luck by Chance (2009)
‘Luck by Chance,’ directed by Zoya Akhtar, is an underrated movie that offers an insider’s look into the Indian film industry. The film stars Farhan Akhtar and Konkona Sen Sharma in lead roles, portraying struggling actors navigating the competitive world of Bollywood. The plot delves into their dreams, challenges, and the element of chance that can make or break careers. Zoya Akhtar’s directorial debut masterfully blends drama and wit, shedding light on the glamour and grit behind the scenes. With a stellar ensemble cast and a realistic portrayal of the film industry, ‘Luck by Chance’ is not only entertaining but also an insightful and relatable cinematic experience. You can stream the film here.
14. Lakshya (2004)
Hrithik Roshan delivers an unforgettable performance as Karan Shergill in ‘Lakshya,’ a character who transforms from a directionless, pampered youth into a determined soldier with a profound purpose. The film unfolds as the military molds Karan’s life, leading him to the frontlines in service of his nation. ‘Lakshya’ is a truly inspiring cinematic journey, showcasing the incredible impact of military training and dedication.
Alongside Roshan, Preity Zinta, Boman Irani, and Ranvir Shorey offer stellar portrayals that enrich the narrative. Director Farhan Akhtar’s adept storytelling adds depth and authenticity to this patriotic masterpiece, making it a must-watch for its compelling character evolution and remarkable ensemble cast. Feel free to check out this great movie here.
13. Shershaah (2021)
Shershaah is a compelling war movie that captivates audiences with its gripping portrayal of the real-life hero, Captain Vikram Batra, who valiantly fought during the Kargil War. Directed by Vishnu Varadhan, the film paints a vivid picture of his life, his love story, and his ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Sidharth Malhotra delivers a standout performance in the lead role, supported by an impressive cast that includes Kiara Advani. The film stands out due to its authentic depiction of the war, powerful storytelling, and the emotional depth it brings to Captain Batra’s inspiring story, making ‘Shershaah’ a remarkable and resonant war movie. You can watch the movie here.
12. October (2018)
Directed by Shoojit Sircar, ‘October’ is an emotionally draining film that follows two hotel management interns, Shiuli Iyer and Danish “Dan” Walia. After an accident that gets Shiuli bedridden and unable to speak, Dan finds out that the last person she mentioned was him. A visit to her in the hospital makes Dan a regular visitor as he finds comfort in being with Shiuli. His visits also reflect on Shiuli’s health, which starts to improve. Is this the beginning of a new friendship, or is it short-lived within the confines of the situation? Themes of grief, love, and hope have been portrayed in a most powerful manner using scores but without the use of much dialogue. A must-watch Bollywood film, ‘October’ stars October as Shiuli and Varun Dhawan as Dan. You can watch it here.
11. Band Baaja Baaraat (2010)
This great rom-com is directed by Maneesh Sharma and stars Ranveer Singh (debut) and Anushka Sharma. The film shows carefree college student Bittoo Sharma, who is looking for a way to remain in Delhi and not return to his hometown and become a farmer. So when he comes across Shruti Kakkar, who plans to start her own wedding-planning business, Bitto decides to become her partner. While she isn’t interested in the beginning, she later agrees, and their company ‘Shaadi Mubarak’ (lit. Happy Wedding) gets booming. However, after a night of “rest,” the dynamic between the two partners changes, and things slowly start falling apart. Will this be the end of ‘Shaadi Mubarak’? To find out, you can watch the film here.
10. Mukti Bhawan (2016)
‘Mukti Bhawan’ or ‘Hotel Salvation’ follows a father-son duo who arrive at Benaras after the father decides that he is ready to pass on. Benaras is considered the ultimate pious spot in India for salvation. The son (Adil Hussain), no matter how reluctant he is to accompany his father (Lalit Behl) and stay with him at Mukti Bhawan, a hotel by the holy Ganges, decides to be by his side. While the father finds peace and a companion in a widow without showing any sign of impending death, the son wonders whether to remain with his father or return home where his duties to his family await. Beautiful, tender, and filled with warmth, this Shubhashish Bhutiani directorial is bound to take you by surprise. You can watch it here.
9. Padmaavat (2018)
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, ‘Padmaavat’ is a historical epic based on the epic poem “Padmavat” (or “Padmawat”) written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540. The film is set in medieval India and showcases the enmity between Maharawal Ratan Singh (Shahid Kapoor), Rajputi ruler of Mewar (in Rajasthan), and Alauddin Khalji (Ranveer Singh) of the Khilji Dynasty that was in control of the Delhi Sultanate. While the conflict was to gain power and control, it is underscored by Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), the newly-wed second wife of Ratan Singh, the description of whose beauty mesmerized Khilji and propelled his urge to take over Chittor, Ratan Singh’s capital in Newar, kill the king and marry Padmavati. While Khilji does defeat Ratan Singh, he doesn’t even get to see Padmavat. To find out why, you can watch the film here. We assure you, you will love it.
8. Chak De! India (2007)
‘Chak De! India,’ directed by Shimit Amin, is a sports drama that shines as one of Bollywood’s finest. The film follows the journey of Kabir Khan, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who rediscovers his passion for hockey as he coaches the Indian women’s national field hockey team. Facing deep-rooted stereotypes, personal conflicts, and regional biases, Khan leads the underdog team to victory in the World Cup.
The exceptional ensemble cast, compelling storyline, and powerful portrayal of female empowerment make ‘Chak De! India’ is a great watch. It not only celebrates sports but also resonates as an inspirational and transformative narrative, transcending cultural boundaries and leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. You can stream it here.
7. Raazi (2018)
‘Raazi,’ a gripping Bollywood thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar, stands as a cinematic espionage endeavor that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The film, set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war, follows Sehmat Khan, portrayed brilliantly by Alia Bhatt, a young Indian woman who marries a Pakistani military officer to serve as an undercover spy. Based on Harinder Sikka’s novel ‘Calling Sehmat,’ the film delves into themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity.
Bhatt’s compelling performance, supported by a stellar cast including Vicky Kaushal and Rajit Kapur, adds depth to the narrative. Meghna Gulzar’s meticulous direction and the film’s tight script create intense suspense, making ‘Raazi’ a compelling watch. Its nuanced portrayal of a complex female protagonist and its exploration of the intricacies of espionage elevate it as a standout Bollywood film. You can watch the film here.
6. Veer-Zaara (2004)
Another masterpiece by director Yash Raj Chopra, ‘Veer-Zaara,’ stars Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta. The movie tells the tale of Veer Pratap Singh, a Squadron Leader in the Indian Air Force, and Zaara Hayaat Khan, a woman from Pakistan. During a rescue operation on Indian soil, Veer brings Zaara (who has come to India to fulfill her mother’s last wish) to safety, and the former is smitten.
More than two decades pass, and we come across Saamiya Siddiqui, a Pakistani lawyer whose first case brings her face to face with her client, an aged Veer Pratap Singh, who has been in a Pakistani prison for the last 22 years. Why is he in prison? No one knows, and he hasn’t opened up to anyone either. Will Saamiya be able to find out the truth? ‘Veer-Zaara’ is a tragically intense love story underscored by separation and sacrifice. You can stream the film here.
5. Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year (2009)
Directed by Shimit Amin, ‘Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year’ stars Ranbir Kapoor as salesman Harpreet Singh Bedi. Harpreet works at AYS Computers after completing his B.Com graduation, wherein he scored a meager 39%. How he balances the office chores and the pressure while trying to find his heart’s way has been portrayed aptly in the film. He even establishes his own enterprise within the company to use his skills rather than rely on his company’s rules for customer satisfaction. Will he be successful? What if he gets caught? To find out, you can watch the film here.
4. Gully Boy (2019)
‘Gully Boy,’ directed by Zoya Akhtar, is a cinematic marvel that captures the raw energy of Mumbai’s underground rap scene. The film follows the journey of Murad, a young aspiring rapper from the slums, brilliantly portrayed by Ranveer Singh, as he battles social barriers, poverty, and his own inhibitions to pursue his passion for music. Alia Bhatt shines as Safeena, his fierce and supportive girlfriend.
The film’s groundbreaking nature lies in its unapologetic portrayal of social issues, like class divide and gender dynamics, coupled with its authentic representation of street rap culture. With powerful performances, a compelling storyline, and a soul-stirring soundtrack, ‘Gully Boy’ not only entertains but also sparks vital conversations, making it a trailblazing masterpiece in Indian cinema. You can stream it here.
3. Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003)
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ is a comedy-drama starring Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Gracy Singh and Boman Irani. It tells the story of Murli Prasad Sharma, aka Munna Bhai (“bhai” means a gangster in Hindi slang), who went on to become a doctor. However, this feat wasn’t achieved easily. While Murli did promise his dad to become a doctor and came to Mumbai with the same hope, he instead became a gangster with his own gang. However, every time his parents come to see him, his place is turned into a makeshift hospital, and all the goons put on a show that they are all doctors.
Unfortunately, the renowned dean Asthana of Mumbai’s best medical college exposes Munna, hurting his father’s pride. Thus, Munna, bent on revenge, decides to join the same college and become a doctor. What follows are his hilarious exploits at the hospital, including how he wins the hearts of the college staff and students while Asthana frantically searches for a way to expel him. A must-watch film, you can stream ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ right here.
2. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
‘Dil Chahta Hai’ is a masterpiece of Indian cinema directed by Farhan Akhtar, celebrated for its fresh and relatable portrayal of friendship and youthful aspirations. The film revolves around three inseparable childhood friends, played by Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Akshaye Khanna, as they navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and growing up. Farhan Akhtar’s directorial debut captures the essence of contemporary urban India, and its narrative, humor, and memorable performances resonate with audiences of all ages. This cinematic gem’s enduring appeal lies in its authentic portrayal of the bonds that shape our lives, making it a timeless classic in the realm of Indian filmmaking. You may stream this film here.
1. Sardar Udham (2021)
Directed by Shoojit Sircar, ‘Sardar Udham’ is a biopic based on the life of Sardar Udham Singh, an Indian freedom fighter hailing from Punjab. Singh assassinated Michael O’Dwyer in London on March 13, 1940. This was Singh’s revenge for the killing of more than a thousand people (gathered for a protest) at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab, by British troops on April 13, 1919. O’Dwyer was Punjab’s Lieutenant Governor at the time. Singh was subsequently arrested, convicted, and sentenced to death. He was hanged at the Pentonville Prison in north London on July 31, 1940. The compelling performance of actor Vicky Kaushal as Sardar Udham Singh won him the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor. The film itself won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Film as well as the National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. A gripping portrayal of history, ‘Sardar Udham’ is a must-watch. You can stream it right here.
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