With three movies boasting hilarious one-liners and over-the-top gags, the Dhamaal franchise is one of contemporary Bollywood’s best comedy franchises. If you wish to watch all the Dhamaal movies in order, we have got you covered with a roundup of the Dhamaal trilogy in order and where to stream them. 

How to watch the Dhamaal movies in chronological order

With the first two Dhamaal movies directly connected to each other and the third one being a reboot, the Dhamaal series can fortunately be streamed in the same order as their release date.

• Dhamaal (2007)

• Double Dhamaal (2011)

• Total Dhamaal (2019)

The first Dhamaal remains a cult classic winning over critics and audiences alike for its goofy premise and intertwined subplots connecting to a wild treasure hunt. Loosely inspired by the vintage Hollywood comedy It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, the film found a ragtag bunch of four slackers and a corrupt cop as they battled each other in laying claim to a dead man’s treasure.

Sanjay Dutt’s cop character and the rest of the ensemble (Arshad Warsi, Jaaved Jaffrey, Riteish Deshmukh and Aashish Chaudhary) returned a few years later in Double Dhamaal, a direct sequel that builds up from its predecessor’s events and continues exploring the many exploits of the franchise’s conman protagonists.

Even as Double Dhamaal failed to replicate the first movie’s legacy, it fared well at the box-office. The third movie Total Dhamaal was a reboot of the franchise and found many of the first two movie’s cast-members returning along with new additions like Ajay Devgn, Madhuri Dixit, and Anil Kapoor. The movie yet again went ahead with the first part’s treasure hunt premise, increasing the stakes and the budget.

With Total Dhamaal yet again subjected to mixed reviews, the movie was a box-office hit, leaving the franchise to be profitable enough to yield any sequels in the future.

Where can you stream the Dhamaal movies?

The original Dhamaal’s popularity is evident from the many OTT services where you can stream it. These include Amazon Prime Video, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, Shemaroo, and Vi Movies & TV. As for Double Dhamaal, it is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and ZEE5 again. You can watch the reboot Total Dhamaal on Hotstar.

As for the movie’s original Hollywood inspiration It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, you can rent it on Amazon and Apple TV.

A trendsetting action franchise in 2000s and 2010s-era Bollywood, the Race trilogy has spawned a few blockbusters. If you wish to binge on this high-octane, adrenaline-fueled franchise, then we have got you covered with a guide that not only tells you the correct viewing order of the movies but also where to stream them all.

How to watch the Race movies in chronological order

The correct sequence to watch the Race trilogy is in the same order as the release date. While the first two movies are directly connected, the third installment however only acts as a spiritual sequel.

• Race (2008)

• Race 2 (2013)

• Race 3 (2018)

The first installment was directed by the twin brother duo Abbas-Mustan, who had previously helmed many other action genre mass-entertainers. Venturing in a somewhat neo-noir territory, Race featured an all-star cast including the likes of Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna as a pair of businessmen brothers at odds with each other. As their personal conflict turns into a whirlwind of assassination plots and car chases, Anil Kapoor plays an unorthodox policeman on their trail.

Race 2 continued the story further with Khan and Kapoor’s characters crossing paths with the leader of the Indian mafia in Turkey. Apart from John Abraham playing the big baddie, new additions to the franchise included Deepika Padukone and Jacqueline Fernandez. With Abbas-Mustan yet again on the director’s chair, the direct sequel fared well at the box office even if critical reviews were mixed.

A spiritual sequel with a different storyline was Race 3 that found choreographer-turned-filmmaker Remo D’Souza (of the ABCD movies) serving as director this time. Saif Ali Khan was replaced by Salman Khan with Anil Kapoor playing a brand-new character. Despite the involvement of a Bollywood megastar like Salman Khan, the movie underperformed commercially leaving the fate of the Race franchise uncertain.

Will there be a Race 4?

Despite the disappointing box office performance of Race 3, a fourth and final installment is still on the cards with Remo D’Souza hinting that production will start in 2024. Salman Khan is yet again announced to star and the franchise’s perpetual face Anil Kapoor can also be expected.

Where can you stream the Race movies?

Race and Race 3 are unfortunately not available to stream at the moment but can be legally downloaded or bought from Google Play and YouTube movies in India. As for Race 2, you can watch the 2013 hit on Netflix or rent it on Google Play, Amazon, and YouTube movies.

From Amitabh Bachchan to Shah Rukh Khan and now Ranveer Singh, the titular role of the internationally wanted gangster Don has been reserved for some of Bollywood’s most dynamic leading men. With so many actors playing the titular role and many other remakes of the franchise, keeping track of the Don movies can be challenging. But we have got you covered with the definitive streaming guide to all the Don sequels and remakes.

How to watch the Don movies in chronological order

Watching the Don franchise can be confusing for it has been remade and rebooted several times but it’s easier viewing them in the same order as their release date.

• Don (1978)

• Don: The Chase Begins (2006)

• Don 2 (2011)

• Don 3 (upcoming)

The lore of Don began with the 1978 classic that starred Amitabh Bachchan in a double role as a charismatic gangster and his doppelganger Vijay, a police insider who impersonates Don after his apparent death. Written by Sholay’s acclaimed duo Saleem-Javed and ranking among one of Amitabh Bachchan’s best movies, Don still endures as a cult classic.

In 2006, Don screenwriter Javed Akhtar’s son Farhan rebooted the franchise with the same premise but on a larger scale with big-budget action sequences. Shah Rukh Khan filled Bachchan’s shoes as Don and Vijay with the movie even recreating its predecessor’s iconic songs like “Paan Banaras Wala”. The reboot was a commercial success and was followed by a direct sequel Don 2 (2011) that takes place a few years later.

With Khan straying away from the franchise after Don 2, many of the actor’s fans wished for him to return as the stylish criminal for a third time. But with Don 3’s casting announcement, it is clear that Ranveer Singh will take the mantle of Don this time. Not much is known about the upcoming film but even with Farhan Akhtar’s contribution to the script, the film is expected to be yet another reboot with no connection to the SRK films.

How to watch the Don Tamil remakes in chronological order

Both Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan’s takes on Don inspired remakes in other languages, most prominently in Tamil. While the first remake Billa (1980) is a standalone watch, the correct order to watch the Ajith Kumar-led remakes is to watch Billa II (2012) before Billa (2007) as the former is the prequel.

• Billa (1980)

• Billa II (2012)

• Billa (2007)

The original Don served as the inspiration for Billa that found Tamil superstar Rajinikanth taking on the titular role of the gangster Billa and his identical double Rajappa. The 1980 hit was later remade under the same name in 2007 with Ajith Kumar starring in a dual role. The movie was followed by the prequel Billa II that traced the gangster’s rise to power in the 1990s.

Billa II was thematically and stylistically very different from the Bollywood Don movies as the prequel dealt with the turbulent Sri Lankan politics of the era and amped up the violence to a more graphic level.

How to watch the Don Telugu and Malayalam remakes in chronological order

Don and Billa were also remade in Telugu and Malayalam, each of which can be watched in any order as they are all standalone narratives.

Telugu: 

• Yugandhar (1979)

• Billa (2009)

Malayalam:

• Sobharaj (1986)

Where can you stream the Don movies and remakes?

Amitabh Bachchan’s original Don is available to stream on ZEE5 while you can watch both the Shah Rukh Khan-led movies on Netflix and Prime Video. The modern Tamil remakes (Billa, Billa II) are available on ZEE5 and Sun NXT respectively although you can also stream Billa II for free on MX Player. The Telugu Billa is available to stream on ZEE5 and Sun NXT.

Rajinikanth has endured as a Tamil superstar for decades but 2010’s Enthiran (released as Robot in Telugu and Hindi) marked a new chapter in his career for modern audiences. So, gear up for the superstar in double roles, a lot of cyborg action, and AR Rahman’s techno-infused music score. Here’s a complete streaming guide for you to check out Rajinikanth’s cult sci-fi epic and its associated movies in chronological order.

How to watch the Robot movies in chronological order

You can fortunately watch the Robot movies in the same order as their release date:

• Enthiran/Robot (2010)

• Ra. One (2011)

• 2.0 (2018)

Enthiran starts off with Rajinikanth playing a gifted robot scientist Vaseegaran who creates the lifelike humanoid cyborg Chitti (also played by Rajinikanth). But when Chitti starts developing feelings for his creator’s girlfriend Sana (Aishwarya Rai), chaos ensues with cloned cyborgs and a robotic revolution.

The movie is followed by the direct sequel 2.0 that finds Vaseegaran teaming up with Chitti once again to defeat a mutant supervillain (Akshay Kumar) who possesses the ability to manipulate birds.

The sequel yet again finds Rajinikanth in a double role even though Rai chose to sit back as the female lead with Amy Jackson filling her spot as a new android named Nila. Both Enthiran and 2.0 are directed by Rajinikanth’s Sivaji The Boss collaborator Shankar.

How is Ra. One connected to the Robot movies?

Indian sci-fi movies dealing with robots are less in number and it’s not surprising that a Bollywood entry in this genre is connected to the Robot franchise. Despite Chitti being kept in a museum at the end of the first movie, he makes a guest appearance in Ra. One (that interestingly also had Shah Rukh Khan in a similar double role as a scientist and a video game character created by him).

Reprising his role as Chitti, a computer-generated version of Rajinikanth briefly appears to assist the video game hero G-One. It’s uncertain where Ra. One fits in the Robot series but it is likely to sit somewhere between Enthiran and 2.0 as Chitti still retains his appearance from the former (instead of the red spiked hair and armor from 2.0).

In what languages can you watch the Robot movies?

Both the Robot movies are available to stream in the original Tamil as well as the Hindi dubs. Considering that the first movie starred Bollywood actor Danny Denzhongpa as the villain and Akshay Kumar filled his shoes in the sequel, both of their parts were originally recorded in Hindi (and dubbed over in the Tamil versions).

Will there be a third movie in the Robot series?

Considering that 2.0 is the second highest-grossing Tamil film at the time of writing, and with Enthiran ranking at tenth, it’s safe to say that the Robot franchise has been a commercial success. While neither Shankar nor Rajinikanth have confirmed another sequel, it wouldn’t be surprising if a third Robot movie gets greenlit.

Where can you stream the Robot movies?

Both Enthiran and its dubbed version, Robot , are available to watch on Sun NXT. 2.0, on the other hand, is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video or to rent on Amazon. Ra. One can be streamed on Eros Now and on ZEE5 (for free).

Karthik Subbaraj established himself as one of Tamil cinema’s freshest voices in the 2010s when he helmed the 2014 crime comedy Jigarthanda. The movie’s success led to a spiritual successor and remakes in many other languages. If you wish to watch the Jigarthanda movies in chronological order, we have got you covered with a complete streaming guide to show you which streaming services have offers for every movie and remake in the franchise.

How to watch the Jigarthanda series (in chronological order)

Jigarthanda Double X (2023) should be off your watchlist before you start Jigarthanda (2014) if you plan to watch Kartik Subbaraj’s movies in chronological order.

1. Jigarthanda Double X (2023)

2. Jigarthanda (2014)

Both movies can even be watched independently as Jigarthanda Double X attempts to ape the core concept of Jigarthanda and focus on a different setting and different characters. While the 2014 movie focused on a novice director filming the exploits of a real-life gangster, the same director-gangster equation plays out in Jigarthanda Double X but in the 1970s. But a post-credits scene connects the two movies with a younger version of Sethu (the gangster in Jigarthanda) revealed to be the son of Alliyan Caesar (the gangster in Jigarthanda Double X).

Both movies are interesting time capsules to the eras in which they are set. Jigarthanda captures the 2010s modernity well while Jigarthanda Double X emulates the turbulent politics of the ‘70s along with the rise of then-upcoming stars like Tamil hit-machine Rajinikanth. Even The Godfather and The Godfather II, both of which released in the early 1970s, are heavily referenced in this prequel.

Does Jigarthanda have any remakes?

If you’re not satisfied with just the Jigarthanda movies in Tamil alone, there are many other remakes to binge on.

• Jigar Thanda (2016)

• Gaddalakonda Ganesh (2019)

• Bachchan Paandey (2022)

The first Jigarthanda remake was a Kannada movie of the same name, followed by a Telugu version Gaddalakonda Ganesh and a Hindi one titled Bachchan Paandey. As all of the remakes follow the same premise as the 2014 original, you can watch them in any order.

Where can you watch the Jigarthanda movies and remakes?

The first Jigarthanda movie by Subbaraj is available to stream for free on Hotstar. Its prequel Jigarthanda Double X can be streamed on Netflix and Sun NXT in its original Tamil version as well as dubbed editions in Hindi and Telugu. Unfortunately, the Kannada and Telugu remakes aren’t available on any streaming platforms but you can still watch the Hindi remake Bachchan Paandey on Amazon Prime Video.

The year 1920 is synonymous with Bollywood horror, thanks to the supernatural franchise of the same name. But with so many 1920 movies released in the past two decades, keeping a track of them can be difficult.

So, we’ve got you covered with a complete streaming guide to watch every 1920 movie in chronological order. We have also added a streaming guide to show you which OTT platforms have offers for every movie in the franchise.

Let’s get started for a spooky binge watch!

How to watch the 1920 movies in chronological order

The chronological order of watching the 1920 movies:

• 1920 (2008)

• 1920: Evil Returns (2012)

• 1920 London (2016)

• 1920 - Horrors of the Heart (2023)

• 1921 (2018)

Considering that every 1920 movie features a new set of characters in different settings, each movie can be watched on its own or in order of the release date. But in terms of the years in which the movies unfurl, the 2018 spin-off 1921 can be watched in the end, once you’re all done with the other parts.

The first 1920 movie was written and directed by Indian horror veteran Vikram Bhatt and went on to be a massive commercial success. Loosely inspired by The Exorcist, 1920 was set in a haunted mansion with a premise centered around a possessed girl in pre-Independence India.

The sequel 1920: Evil Returns explored similar cases of possession in the very same year but the settings and characters were replaced. The third movie took the paranormal adventures to London while 1920 - Horrors of the Heart revolved around a girl investigating her father’s suicide in colonial-era Bombay. Even though 1921 was released before 1920 - Horrors of the Heart, the movie is set a year after the rest of the franchise and follows a fame-seeking pianist in 1920s England.

What is the Bhatt family’s connection to the 1920 movies?

Vikram Bhatt has been a recurring creative behind most of the movies, directing 1920 and 1921, penning the screenplay for 1920: Evil Returns, and producing the entire franchise. His brother, the acclaimed director Mahesh Bhatt has also had producer and story credits on most of the movies, even writing the script for 1920 - Horrors of the Heart.

Are the 1920 movies based on true stories?

Much like how The Exorcist itself was inspired by real-life cases of Catholic exorcisms, the 1920 movies are inspired by actual cases of possession and exorcisms observed by Hindu and Christian priests. But the characters and the ghosts are largely fictional.

Where can you watch the 1920 movies?

Amazon Prime Video offers most of the 1920 movies to watch (1920, 1920: Evil Returns, 1920 London and 1921). As for the latest installment 1920 - Horrors of the Heart, you can stream it in 4K on Hotstar. You can also stream 1920 London on ZEE5 for free (but with ads), or rent it on Google Play and YouTube movies.

From the anthemic echoes of the song “Salaam Rocky Bhai” to the hammer-wielding hero’s stylish violence, the K.G.F movies have dominated pop culture and introduced Kannada action cinema to the Indian mainstream. If you need a ready guide to stream the KGF movies in chronological order, we've created a complete streaming guide to show you which streaming services have offers for every movie in the franchise.

How to watch the K.G.F movies in chronological order

The chronological order of Prashant Neel’s K.G.F. movies are the same as the release order:

• K.G.F: Chapter 1 (2018)

• K.G.F: Chapter 2 (2022)

With its titular acronym standing for Kolar Gold Fields, the K.G.F movies are set in the midst of the criminal and political nexus around the gold mined from Karnataka’s mineral-rich town Kolar. Both movies double as period dramas with the first movie’s events taking place from the 1950s to the 1970s. K.G.F: Chapter 2 takes the narrative further by delving into the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Kannada superstar Yash stars as the franchise’s antiheroic face Rocky Bhai, an underdog who rises up the ranks of Mumbai’s gold mafia in the first part. Establishing his dynamic charisma and penchant for violence, Rocky is then assigned to assassinate the inheritor of the Kolar Gold Fields, driving him to reconnect with his past in Karnataka.

The second part finds him against odds with his previous target’s brother Adheera (played by Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt). The scope also expands to incorporate national politics with Raveena Tandon playing an authoritarian Prime Minister (a subtle nod to ex-Indian PM Indira Gandhi).

In the course of two movies, the K.G.F franchise has broken box-office records, won several acting, directing, and stunt choreography accolades, and turned into a pop culture phenomenon on social media.

Will there be a K.G.F Chapter 3?

While director Prashant Neel moved on to a new franchise with Salaar, a third K.G.F movie is still on the cards as is evident from the post-credits scene of K.G.F: Chapter 2. With a CIA Agent handing over a file of Rocky’s international crimes to the Prime Minister and a peon finding a draft titled “KGF Chapter 3”, it’s clear that we will get a third movie sometime in the future.

Considering that K.G.F: Chapter 2 is still the second-highest grossing Indian movie of all time, it is also marketable enough to convert the two movies into a full-fledged trilogy.

Where can you stream the K.G.F. movies?

K.G.F.: Chapter 1 is available to stream on Hotstar for free. As for the second movie K.G.F: Chapter 2, you can watch it on Amazon Prime Video or rent it on the Amazon store. While both movies are in Kannada, their dubbed Hindi versions are also available on both streaming platforms.

Recently appearing as the villain in the psychological thriller Shaitaan, R Madhavan has been diversifying his portfolio over the years. The reputed Tamil and Hindi character actor has appeared in some modern Indian cinema classics and we’ve got you covered with the best Madhavan movies to stream.

From romantic comedies like the Tanu Weds Manu series to endearing human dramas like Anbe Sivam and 3 Idiots to horrors like 13B and Shaitaan, Madhavan has done it all. Have a look below at where you can catch your beloved “Maddy” in film and TV.

Where to stream R Madhavan’s filmography?

Prime Video, Netflix, ZEE5, Eros Now, and Jio Cinema are some of the best places where you can abundantly stream Madhavan’s all-time classic movies. Some of his South Indian credits can be specifically found on platforms like Aha and Sun NXT while MX Player has some free-to-watch options.

Most of Madhavan’s OTT series like The Railway Men and Decoupled can be streamed on Netflix while the neo-noir Breathe is a Prime Video original.

From Vikram Vedha to 3 Idiots: R Madhavan’s multi-lingual track record

As a film actor, Madhavan found his early fame in Tamil cinema with Mani Ratnam’s timeless rom-com Alaipayuthey (later remade as Saathiya in Hindi). The 2000 classic found Madhavan and Shalini playing a married couple as they discover the nuances of urban love and maturity after they elope.

The following year, Madhavan earned further acclaim as the love-crazed protagonist in Gautam Mennon’s directorial debut Minnale. The drama which finds Madhavan’s Rajesh taking the identity of another man to impress his college sweetheart plays out as a gripping tragedy of errors. A more popular take on the story is the Hindi remake Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein that had the actor reprising his role and establishing his name further among Bollywood audiences.

However, his Bollywood debut came with Ramji Londonwaley, a romantic comedy also co-written by him. Playing a friendly Indian chef in London, the movie established Madhavan’s chocolate boy image that he got to utilize in many other romances.

And yet Madhavan has always dared to play against type. Hindi classics like Rang De Basanti and 3 Idiots found him playing complex supporting characters alongside Aamir Khan like an ill-fated pilot in the former and an engineering student with a passion for photography in the latter.

Madhavan’s other experimental projects over the years include the bi-lingual projects: 13B, a cerebral low-budget horror and Irudhi Suttru, a gritty boxing drama with Madhavan as a strict coach.

Vikram Vedha was another major career highlight for both Madhavan and its breakout star Vijay Sethupathi. While Sethupathi played a morally gray gangster with a penchant for storytelling, Madhavan’s Vikram was an equally ambiguous cop who interrogates him.

In 2022, Madhavan also took to directing with Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, a biopic on Indian space scientist who was once falsely imprisoned for espionage. Madhavan’s direction and his lead performance as Nambi Narayan earned him accolades like the National Award for Best Feature Film.

Why is Anbe Sivam R Madhavan’s best movie to watch?

Anbe Sivam marked the first acting collaboration between Madhavan and Tamil auteur Kamal Haasan. The heartwarming human drama finds the two actors playing morally opposite characters who embark on a life changing train journey from Bhubaneshwar to Chennai. In the course of the ups and downs of their voyage, both characters reveal more about each other’s personality, building up to a memorable third act.

Be it Anbe Sivam’s regular ranking among the IMDb Top 250 (India) or its cult status among Madhavan fans, this is one movie that clearly endures as his best. You can watch it on several OTT platforms like Prime Video, Hotstar, Aha, etc.

Despite only three Indian movies making the cut for the Best International Feature at the Oscars, India has regularly submitted a movie for the Academy’s consideration for many years since 1957. Have a look at every Indian submission at the Oscars’ prestigious global category along with our guide to stream them all.

What is the latest movie to be submitted for the Oscars Best International Feature?

The Malayalam disaster film 2018 (based on the Kerala floods in the titular year) was submitted as India’s official pick for the category but didn’t make it to the shortlist. You can stream the critically acclaimed and commercially successful drama on Sony LIV.

In the buildup to the 2023 Oscars, the Gujarati coming-of-age drama Last Film Show was picked over audience favourite RRR (despite RRR later winning in the Best Original Song category) and made it to the official shortlist of 15 movies. However, the Gujarati movie couldn’t progress any further for the final list of five nominees. As of now, you can stream the movie on Netflix.

How many Indian movies have been nominated for Best International Feature?

While most of India’s submissions couldn’t make it to the final nomination list, three Hindi-language movies have represented the country at the Academy Awards. These include India’s first-ever submission, Mehboob Khan's endearing family drama Mother India along with Mira Nair’s urban class drama Salaam Bombay and Ashutosh Gowariker’s sports epic Lagaan.

Mother India featured Nargis Dutt as a hardworking widowed farmer who toils on the field to provide for her family and ward off oppressive landlords. Salaam Bombay was Nair’s stellar debut featuring many young non-actors portraying the hardships of orphaned children in the slums of Mumbai. As for Lagaan, the Aamir Khan-starrer was set during the British Raj and recounted a cricket match played between a village’s inhabitants and their white overlords.

How many films has India submitted to the Oscars?

When it comes to the Best International Feature category, India has submitted a total of 56 films. Considering the linguistic diversity of the nation, 34 of these films were Hindi features while ten were in Tamil and four were in Malayalam (including the latest submission, 2018). Marathi was represented with three films and followed by two each in Gujarati and Bengali. One Assamese and one Telugu movie have also been selected.

When has India not submitted to the Oscars?

Since its notable first try with 1957’s Mother India, the Indian decision making body Film Federation of India (FFI) has occasionally strayed away from not sending a submission to the Academy up to the year 1984. From then onwards, the FFI has always sent an annual submission barring the year 2003 when it decided that no Indian film will be able to compete with submissions from other countries. Unsurprisingly, the decision was met with controversy among the Indian filmmaking community and the FFI has continued to submit movies every year.

Where can you stream Indian Best International Feature submissions?

Many of the recent submissions are available to watch on popular OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, Jio Cinema and ZEE5. Most of the older classics are available to watch on the same platforms along with Mubi, Shemaroo, Sun NXT, Hoichoi and more.

Mahesh Babu, occasionally hailed as the "Prince of Tollywood," has made his mark in the Telugu film industry with his dynamic performances and captivating on-screen persona. We’ve got you covered with the best of Mahesh Babu’s film career along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Mahesh Babu’s filmography? 

Netflix and Prime Video are good places to watch most of Mahesh Babu’s recent hits along with ZEE5. You can stream the rest of his filmography on OTT platforms like Sun NXT, Jio Cinema, Eros NOW, Lionsgate Play, and Aha. Some are even available to stream for free on MX Player like Okkadu, Khaleja, and Pokiri.

Mahesh Babu’s Movie Career at a Glance

Mahesh Babu embarked on his cinematic journey with the debut feature Raja Kumarudu in 1999, exhibiting early glimpses of his acting finesse. However, it was his breakthrough role as a cursed lover in the poignant supernatural fantasy drama Murari (2001) that catapulted him to prominence, showcasing his versatility across genres, be it romance, action, or familial narratives.

The trajectory of Mahesh's career soared with the monumental success of the crime thriller Pokiri (2006), a cult classic that solidified his superstar status. His portrayal of an undercover cop in the guise of a goon in this film earned widespread acclaim, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly transition between various character archetypes.

Subsequently, Mahesh mesmerized audiences with his multifaceted portrayals in a myriad of blockbusters. From the suave spy in Spyder (2017) to the endearing rogue in Khaleja (2010), he continuously pushed boundaries and explored diverse roles with aplomb. His filmography boasts an array of iconic characters, including the righteous journalist in Nijam (2003), the charming yet enigmatic contract killer in Athadu (2005), and the revenge-seeking policeman in Dookudu (2011).

Mahesh's cinematic repertoire extends beyond conventional boundaries, with films like Srimanthudu (2015) and Maharshi (2019) showcasing his prowess as a socially conscious actor-producer. Through these projects, he not only entertained audiences but also imparted profound messages on societal issues.

The former found him playing an inheritor of a business empire who sets out to improve the living standards of his ancestral town. Maharshi, offering another critically acclaimed performance, followed the actor in a similar role as an NRI businessman who returns to India to aid the downtrodden farmers of his friends’ village.

Why is Athadu Mahesh Babu’s best movie to watch?

Athadu is a gripping thriller that allowed Mahesh Babu to shed his romantic hero image and take on more nuanced, morally grey characters as well. Starring as a contract killer hired to take out a politician, the film finds his protagonist embroiled in a larger conspiracy as he’s later framed for the hit job. The web of lies plays out with intriguing performances from the supporting cast as well including veterans like Nassar and Prakash Raj. The movie remains a cult favorite among Mahesh Babu fans and has aged way better than his other early 2000s movies (that might today fall under an excessively over-the-top “masala” territory).

Hollywood’s biggest night unravels on March 10 this year, with the Oscars honouring movies ranging from the two Barbenheimer blockbusters and even an Indian-set Canadian documentary To Kill A Tiger. Considering India’s gargantuan film release output every year, it’s very rare for Indian productions to make it to the Academy Awards. But there are a few exceptions. Have a look at our list below of every Indian movie that has won or been nominated for an Oscar and where you can watch them.

2023 Oscars: When RRR and The Elephant Whisperers earned India double wins

While To Kill A Tiger might lack Indian producers, the country cherished the 2023 Oscars with Telugu action flick RRR’s energetic musical number "Naatu Naatu" winning Best Original Song (a historic first for India in this category) and the Kartiki Gonsalves-directed and Guneet Monga-produced Netflix documentary The Elephant Whisperers taking home the Oscar for Best Documentary Short. In the former’s case, music composer MM Keeravani and lyricist Chandrabose picked up the award.

In the very same ceremony, Shaunak Sen’s Sundance favourite All That Breathes was also running for the Best Documentary Feature category but unfortunately lost to Navalny. Just a year before Sen’s loss, Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh’s Writing With Fire was also competing for Best Documentary Feature. While All That Breathes explored the lives of two veterinary brothers committed to protecting the birds of Delhi, Writing With Fire followed the trials and tribulations of rural urban journalists.

From Mother India to Lagaan: India’s Best International Feature Submissions

Despite India submitting to the Best International Feature category every year, only three movies from the country have managed to make it to the top five (all three being Hindi-language dramas).

Back when the Best International Feature category was known as Best Foreign Language film, Mehboob Khan’s epic social drama Mother India made history by marking India’s first-ever Oscar nomination in 1957. The Nargis Dutt-starrer ultimately lost to Federico Fellini’s Nights of Cabiria (Italy).

Decades later, Mira Nair’s coming-of-age tale on urban poverty Salaam Bombay secured a spot in the category but lost out to the Danish submission Pelle The Conqueror.

The last Indian movie to get nominated for Best International Feature is the Aamir Khan-led period cricket epic Lagaan. The anti-imperialist narrative of colonised Indians challenging their British overlords for a cricket match struck a chord with international audiences and Lagaan was nominated alongside the acclaimed French romance Amelie at the 2001 Oscars. Lagaan eventually lost out to Bosnian war film No Man’s Land.

AR Rahman, Satyajit Ray, and more: The Indian Oscar wins from non-Indian movies

If we look back at Indian representation in the Oscars, many of the winners were awarded for films set in India but mostly produced under the umbrella of Hollywood. So, something like 2009 Best Picture winner Slumdog Millionaire was ultimately a British production with Danny Boyle on the director’s chair. Set in the slums of India’s metropolitan hub Mumbai, the movie featured music by AR Rahman. The Indian virtuoso earned himself an Oscar for Best Original Song for “Jai Ho” (written by co-winner Gulzar) and another Oscar for Best Original Score. Similarly, Indian sound designer Resul Pookutty bagged the Oscar for Best Sound Mixing that year.

More prominent Indian Oscar-winners include veteran Bengali director Satyajit Ray who was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Oscar in 1992 and Bhanu Athaiya who won an Oscar for Best Costume Design for her work in Gandhi.

Where to stream India’s Oscar-winning and nominated movies?

Netflix, Hotstar, ZEE5 and Jio Cinema offer most of the recent Oscar winners. As for Best International Feature nominees, you can watch Mother India on Eros Now and Shemaroo, while you can stream Lagaan on Netflix.

Ram Charan, scion of the illustrious Chiranjeevi dynasty, is one of the most popular stars of the Telugu film industry and his fame is only increasing, thanks to the Oscar-winning blockbuster RRR. If you too are a fan of the Magadheera star, we have curated a list of his best and most popular movies along with a guide to stream them all.

Where can you stream Ram Charan’s best movies?

Most of Ram Charan’s filmography is available to watch on a wide variety of OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, Sun NXT, ZEE5, Lionsgate Play, and Aha. The ones featured on Hotstar and Netflix are also available to stream in dubbed versions in Tamil and Hindi.

Early Career and Magadheera Breakout

Born into a family synonymous with Tollywood greatness, the son of megastar and politician Chiranjeevi made his acting debut with Chirutha in 2007, garnering attention for his remarkable screen presence and commitment to his craft.

One of the defining moments in Ram Charan's career came with the fantasy epic Magadheera (2009), directed by S.S. Rajamouli. In this cinematic spectacle, he essayed the dual roles of Kala Bhairava and Harsha, showcasing his versatility and ability to portray contrasting characters within the same narrative. The film not only became a massive commercial success but also earned him critical acclaim for his compelling performances.

Ram Charan’s Best Romances and Thrillers

In the ensuing years, Ram Charan continued to diversify his roles, taking on the challenge of characters with varied shades. In the romantic drama Orange (2010), he portrayed a carefree young man grappling with love and life, displaying his range as an actor. The film may not have achieved blockbuster success, but Ram Charan's nuanced performance was acknowledged.

His foray into the thriller genre with Dhruva (2016) marked another significant milestone. Portraying the titular role, Ram Charan played a determined police officer on a mission, impressing both critics and audiences with his intense and focused performance. The film's success reaffirmed his status as a bankable star capable of shouldering diverse genres.

Continued success with Rangasthalam 1985 and RRR

A watershed moment in Ram Charan’s career was marked with the 2018 rural drama Rangasthalam 1985 that showcased the zenith of Ram Charan's acting prowess. Directed by Sukumar, the film featured him as Chitti Babu, a hearing-impaired village youth. His transformative portrayal not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with the audience, catapulting Rangasthalam 1985 to become one of the highest-grossing Telugu films at the time.

A few years later came his sophomore collaboration with S.S. Rajamouli, the globally renowned period epic RRR. An over-the-top action drama set in colonial India, Ram Charan starred alongside Junior NTR as freedom fighters who bring an Empire down to its knees. With an abundance of zany action sequences and energy brimming in its Oscar-winning song “Naatu Naatu”, RRR became a trendsetter and marked a new chapter in Ram Charan’s stellar career.

In the meantime, Charan has also appeared in several movies alongside his father such as the period epic Sye Narsimha Reddy, the political thriller Acharya, and the action drama Khaidi No. 150.

Why is Rangasthalam 1985 Ram Charan’s best movie to watch?

Despite RRR being Ram Charan’s most popular title yet, it’s his 2018 drama Rangasthalam 1985 that brought out the best of his dramatic potential. Portraying a naive yet righteous villager who aims to go against an oppressive village landlord, Charan’s rousing portrayal won over critics and audiences alike, establishing him as a serious actor who can occasionally meander away from his more mainstream brand of stardom.

When it comes to multi-lingual actresses, Rashmika Mandanna is one of the most sought-after performers in the Indian film industry with notable appearances in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi cinema. If you like the Pushpa and Animal actress, have a glance at our list of the best Rashmika Mandanna movies along with a guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Rashmika Mandanna’s filmography?

Prime Video and Netflix offer most of Rashmika Mandanna’s recent hits to watch. You can stream the rest of her movies on Sun NXT, Hotstar, ZEE 5, MX Player, Voot, Sony LIV, and Jio Cinema.

Rashmika Mandanna’s Career at a Glance

Rashmika’s acting debut came in 2016 with the Kannada romantic comedy Kirik Party, directed by Rishab Shetty (before his Kantara fame). The film was a critical and commercial success, and Rashmika's portrayal of college student Saanvi Joseph, garnered widespread acclaim. Her natural charm and acting prowess quickly caught the audience's attention, earning her several awards and nominations, including the SIIMA Award for Best Debut Actress.

Following the success of Kirik Party, Rashmika continued to establish herself as a leading actress in the Kannada film industry. She starred in movies like Anjani Putra (2017) opposite the late Puneeth Rajkumar and Chamak (2017) alongside Ganesh, further solidifying her position as a versatile performer capable of delivering both commercial success and critical acclaim.

The same year, she starred opposite Vijay Deverakonda in the romantic drama Geetha Govindam, directed by Parasuram. The film was a massive commercial success and became one of the highest-grossing Telugu films of the year. Rashmika's performance as the titular heroine Geetha alongside Vijay Devarokanda’s protagonist garnered widespread acclaim, further elevating her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry.

Rashmika's winning streak continued with films like the romantic comedy Devadas (2018), where she shared the screen with top actors like Nagarjuna and Nani, and the social drama Dear Comrade (2019), where she reunited with her Geetha Govindam star Vijay Deverakonda for a powerful romantic drama that showcased her acting range.

In 2020, Rashmika ventured into the Tamil film industry with Sulthan, directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan, opposite Karthi. Though the film received mixed reviews, Rashmika's performance was widely appreciated, marking her successful foray into Tamil cinema. She has continued her Tamil career with the Thalapathy Vijay-starrer Varisu.

Continuing her upward trajectory, Rashmika ventured into Bollywood with the family comedy-drama Goodbye, sharing screen space with Amitabh Bachchan, Neena Gupta and the titular dog. The period espionage thriller Mission Majnu followed as her next Hindi movie, a Netflix release starring Siddharth Malhotra that unfortunately didn’t get the best of reviews.

However, it was the 2021 Telugu action-drama Pushpa: The Rise that offered a breakthrough in her career, with her instantly turning into a household name. This towering fame only continued with her third Hindi movie: the controversial and polarizing blockbuster Animal.

The Ranbir Kapoor star vehicle explored a toxic antihero’s violent quest for revenge as his fiercely loyal wife (Rashmika) bears the brunt of his actions. Despite the debates on hypermasculinity that it sparked, Rashmika held her own and displayed her affinity for playing emotionally troubled characters.

Why is Pushpa: The Rise Rashmika Mandanna’s best movie to watch?

An all-out entertainer with equal parts style and substance, Pushpa: The Rise is the movie that put Rashmika Mandanna on the map. Telugu megastar Allu Arjun played the titular character, a smuggler of exotic red sandalwood with a rags-to-riches story. Despite the crime drama’s masculine elements, Rashmika offered a breath of fresh air as Srivalli, a strong-willed woman who runs her dairy business while also falling for the vigilante hero.

With just over seven feature films to his name, Kabir Khan has not only emerged as one of mainstream Bollywood’s most bankable directors but also one of its most diverse voices. From poignant narratives like Kabul Express and New York to melodramatic entertainers like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Ek Tha Tiger, here’s an ultimate list of the best Kabir Khan movies and a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you stream Kabir Khan’s filmography?

Prime Video and Netflix are abundant in Kabir Khan movies to watch although Hotstar and Apple (only for renting) can be helpful at times. Apart from directing movies, Khan also helmed The Forgotten Army- Azaadi Ke Liye, a period military drama recounting the exploits of Indian National Army soldiers allied with Japanese forces in World War II. The single-season show is available to stream on Prime Video.

Kabul Express and New York: Kabir Khan’s Early Films

Kabir Khan loves taking on socio-political issues in the Indian subcontinent, a hallmark in his directing career that is evident from his earliest films Kabul Express and New York. The former is one of the most underrated Yash Raj Films productions to watch, exploring the journey of two Indian journalists traversing Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Instead of relying on stereotypical depictions of this conflict-ridden territory, Khan’s direction incorporated a more empathetic approach while addressing religious fundamentalism, humanised militants, and the current state of war reporting.

While not enduring as a commercial success, Kabul Express made Khan known among critics’ circles and gave way to his sophomore feature New York. Reuniting him with Kabul Express actor John Abraham and featuring Neil Nitin Mukesh and Katrina Kaif as co-leads, New York touched upon the Islamophobic racism faced by brown immigrants in a post-9/11 America. The film has only aged better with time.

From Tiger to Bajrangi: Kabir Khan’s Collaborations with Salman Khan

When it comes to minting box-office gold, Salman Khan has proven to be a lucky charm for Khan (the director). Tubelight is one exception with its mixed reviews but it was the two Khans’ collaboration Ek Tha Tiger that spawned the successful YRF Spy Universe franchise. The 2012 espionage thriller found Salman Khan playing an undercover spy who falls for his Pakistani counterpart (Katrina Kaif) in a high-stakes mission.

Kabir Khan’s second effort with the Bollywood megastar amped up the emotions with Bajrangi Bhaijaan, yet again touching upon cross-border peace as the titular Indian protagonist takes it upon himself to help a Pakistani girl reach her home.

'83 and Phantom: Continued Experimentation

Following the blockbuster legacy of Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Khan is still not comfortable sticking to one formula. So, he revisited his multi-country shooting schedules and affinity for the spy genre with the terrorism-themed action thriller Phantom. His latest venture has been 2021’s sports drama ‘83 that recounts the Indian cricket team’s road to their first-ever World Cup victory. With Ranveer Singh playing the then-captain Kapil Dev and an ensemble of character actors as the rest of the men in blue, ‘83 showed Khan’s skills at helming biographical narratives.

Why is Bajrangi Bhaijaan Kabir Khan’s best movie to watch?

Offering a shockingly emotional turn by Salman Khan in the lead, Bajrangi Bhaijaan is Kabir Khan’s magnum opus for how well it captures all tropes of the director’s work. Instead of fixating on the enmity between the neighbouring countries of India and Pakistan, Khan offers a new hope with this tale of a gullible Indian man undertaking an arduous journey just so that a Pakistani girl can reunite with her parents. The movie further benefits greatly from Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s supporting act as a friendly Pakistani journalist and a tear jerking third act.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra dominated the 2000s with production efforts like 3 Idiots, PK, and the Munnabhai movies. But he is a worthy director in his own right as you can take a look at the best Vidhu Vinod Chopra movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you stream Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s filmography?

Most of Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s movies are available to watch on Netflix and Prime Video while you can stream the rest on Hotstar, ZEE5 and Shemaroo. His Oscar-nominated short film An Encounter With Faces is available on Vinod Chopra Films’ official YouTube channel.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the Director

Finding early acclaim with his student films at FTII (Film and Television Institute of India), Vidhu Vinod Chopra earned the rare distinction of being an Oscar nominee from India when his 1978 documentary An Encounter with Faces was nominated for Best Documentary Short at the Academy Awards.

Most of Chopra’s films from the ‘80s and ‘90s harboured a particular focus on grand musical numbers and passionate melodrama. This is particularly true in the period epic 1942: A Love Story although his other hits also prove his affinity for playing around with multiple genres. So, if Parinda, Khamosh and Mission Kashmir were unpredictable thrillers, later works like Eklavya: The Royal Guard and Shikara were dramas rooted in more fact-based history.

Born and raised in Srinagar, Chopra has had an affinity for telling Kashmir-centric stories on celluloid. In this context, Mission Kashmir was a more commercial effort to shed light on the turbulence of the titular state. Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt’s morally grey protagonists represented different sides of the separatist struggle among Kashmiri populations.

A more sensitive and personalised approach was adopted years later with Shikhara, a romantic drama dwelling upon the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s. While polarizing critics, Chopra was still praised for bringing to life a sensitive narrative largely influenced by Rahul Pandita’s poignant memoir Our Moon Has Blood Clots.

While Chopra unabashedly aims to appeal to mainstream audiences, the director isn’t afraid to experiment every once in a while. Khamoshi, for instance, was meta for its time featuring many actors playing sarcastic versions of themselves (a practice uncommon in Bollywood back then).

Then, after years of embarking on a directing sabbatical, Chopra made his Hollywood directorial debut with an English-language remake of his own 1989 crime drama Parinda. Broken Horses found Chopra directing Daredevil star Vincent D’Onofrio, the late Terminator Salvation actor Anton Yelchin, and several other Hollywood character actors.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the Producer

While this list covers Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s best movies as a director, his production credits are equally notable. Almost all of Rajkumar Hirani’s best movies were released under the Vinod Chopra films banner. Chopra and Hirani’s creative partnership started with the latter’s debut/breakout hit Munnabhai MBBS and its spiritual sequel Lage Raho Munnabhai.

Striving to helm many such heartwarming family dramas to watch, their partnership continued through the coming-of-age comedy 3 Idiots, the religious-themed satire PK, and the semi-biographical drama Sanju.

Why is 12th Fail Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s best movie to watch?

There are only a handful of Bollywood directors who can offer their magnum opus at a later stage of their career. Already considered as a commercial auteur for cult hits like 1942 and Parinda, Vidhu Vinod Chopra took a backseat from directing for most of the 2000s and 2010s. But in 2023, Chopra sought out to adapt the real-life rags-to-riches journey of a village dreamer who works his way up to becoming an Indian bureaucrat. With a perfectly cast Vikrant Massey in the lead, 12th Fail played out as an gut-wrenching but ultimately optimistic tale of hard work and commitment, with positive role models  to look up to.

Allu Arjun, the charismatic actor hailed as the "Stylish Star" of Indian cinema, has made a mark in mainstream Indian cinema with hits like S/O Satyamurthy, Vedam and the Pushpa franchise. If you too are a fan of the Telugu megastar, then we have got you covered with a definitive list of the best Allu Arjun movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Allu Arjun’s filmography?

You can stream many of Allu Arjun’s recent hits on Prime Video and Netflix along with the South-centric OTT platform Sun NXT. Other additional options to watch his films include ZEE 5, Hotstar, Voot, Sony LIV, Lionsgate Play, Aha, Epic ON, and MX Player. The movies offered on Hotstar and MX Player can be streamed for free.

Confused about where to start? Have a look at Allu Arjun’s career graph to decide what to watch.

Allu Arjun’s Filmography at a Glance

Born to an influential Telugu film family, Allu Arjun was destined for the limelight. While his uncle is the megastar Chiranjeevi, his father Allu Aravind was a prominent producer.

Arjun made his silver screen debut with the romantic drama Gangotri in 2003, marking the inception of a glittering career. However, it was his portrayal of Aarya in the eponymous romantic action comedy that catapulted him to stardom. His nuanced performance earned him critical acclaim and endeared him to audiences, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

A driving factor behind Allu Arjun’s stardom is his versatility with mainstream projects. He effortlessly transitions between roles, be it the lovable romantic in the Aarya series, the rugged soldier in Parugu, or the flamboyant dancer in Aarya 2. Each character he portrays bears his signature style, captivating viewers with his impeccable dialogue delivery, emotive expressions, and electrifying dance moves.

Beyond his acting prowess, Allu Arjun is a trendsetter in fashion and dance. His distinctive style, characterized by trendy attire and unique hairstyles, has inspired a generation of fans, earning him the moniker "Stylish Star." Moreover, his dance performances are a visual spectacle, showcasing his agility, grace, and boundless energy.

Arjun's illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades including five Filmfare Awards South and three Nandi Awards, a true testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication. Furthermore, his popularity transcends geographical boundaries, with a massive fan following not only in South India but also across the country (more so after him riding on the pan-Indian cinema bandwagon).

In recent years, Arjun has expanded his horizons, venturing into pan-Indian cinema with projects like the 2021 blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise. A period action drama, Pushpa was a commercial hit in not just Telugu but also its dubbed versions in Tamil and Hindi.

His performance as the eponymous Pushpa Raj was a talking point, along with the viral songs and powerful co-stars like Malayalam industry heavyweight Fahadh Faasil. The film’s story will conclude with 2024’s Pushpa: The Rule, a movie that promises to be one of the year’s most anticipated titles to watch out for.

Why is Pushpa: The Rise Allu Arjun’s best movie to watch?

Pushpa: The Rise marked a new chapter in Allu Arjun’s career with him eyeing an audience beyond his native Telugu industry. But commercial aspects aside, Arjun’s turn as a humble coolie-turned-charismatic sandalwood smuggler made for a compelling underdog story. Arjun’s whistle-worthy delivery of some quotable one-liners made the movie all the more entertaining, while showcasing some dramatic depth absent in his previous characters. Sukumar’s deft direction supports the epic storytelling, acting as a full circle for Arjun’s career for it was then-debutant Sukumar who directed Arjun’s breakout hit Aarya. From playing Aarya to Pushpa Raj, Allu Arjun has come a long way.

Kishore Kumar, or Kishore da as he was popularly known, was a wearer of many hats dabbling in acting, singing and music production. If you still yodel along to Kumar’s iconic compositions and watch his evergreen comedies and romances, we have got you covered with a list of the best Kishore Kumar movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Kishore Kumar’s filmography?

The all-time Bollywood great’s legacy still lives on with most of his movies available to stream on OTT platforms like Prime Video, Shemaroo and ZEE5. You can watch some of his other movies on Vi Movies & TV, MX Player (for free) Eros Now, and Jio Cinema as well.

Once you have got your Kishore Kumar watchlist sorted out, have a look at his versatile career over the years.

Kishore Kumar, the Singer

Kumar's singing career skyrocketed in the 1950s, with his distinct voice and dynamic range setting him apart from his contemporaries. Hits like "Roop Tera Mastana," "Ek Ladki Bhigi Bhagi Si," and "Mere Sapno Ki Rani" cemented his status as the voice of a generation, earning him widespread acclaim and adoration.

Kishore Kumar, the Actor

In addition to his singing prowess, Kumar showcased his acting chops in a myriad of films, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles. Whether it was the lovable singing goofball in Padosan, or the eccentric protagonist in Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Kumar's on-screen presence was magnetic, captivating audiences across generations.

Kishore Kumar's versatility as an actor shone brightly in films like Musafir, Dilli Ka Thug, Half Ticket and Mr X In Bombay. In Musafir, he displayed his dramatic range as a man grappling with the complexities of life and love, delivering a performance that was both poignant and memorable. Dilli Ka Thug showcased Kumar's comedic timing and flair for slapstick humor, as he effortlessly charmed audiences with his portrayal of a lovable rogue.

Similarly, in Half Ticket, Kumar's portrayal of a man masquerading as a child to save money showcased his comedic genius, earning him widespread praise and accolades.

Kishore Kumar, the Director and Writer

Beyond his acting and singing, Kumar explored behind the camera with a directorial stunt on the heartbreaking post-war drama Door Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein and penning the story of the romantic comedy Jhumroo, both of which drew critical acclaim and showcased his creative vision and storytelling prowess. The former starred his son Amit Kumar in a poignant performance as a child who loses his voice when his family dies in a fire, barring his father who returns to his tragic home after years of conflict.

Kumar's collaborations with leading filmmakers and composers further solidified his legacy. His partnership with composer R.D. Burman yielded timeless classics like "Yeh Shaam Mastani" and "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas," while his on-screen chemistry with actresses like Madhubala, Vyjayanthimala, and Mumtaz added to his appeal as a romantic hero.

Despite facing setbacks and controversies throughout his career (including four rocky marriages, one of them with frequent co-star Madhubala), Kumar remained undeterred, continuing to innovate and entertain audiences until his untimely demise in 1987.

Why is Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi Kishore Kumar’s best movie to watch?

Outrageously hilarious with equal doses of sarcastic wit and slapstick comedy, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi endures as a cult classic. Starring Kumar with his real-life brothers Ashok and Anoop Kumar along with recurring collaborator Madhubala, this screwball road movie finds the trio hating on women until two of them have a change of heart. Exploring chauvinism and unrequited love in a lighthearted manner, you can stream the 1958 comedy on Prime Video and Shemaroo.

From starting out as a character actor with blink-and-miss appearances to becoming a household name in his own right, Pankaj Tripathi has had quite a career in Bollywood and the Hindi OTT space. If you too are an admirer of the compelling Kaleen Bhaiya from Mirzapur, then we have you covered with a definitive list of the best Pankaj Tripathi movies and TV shows to watch.

Where can you stream Pankaj Tripathi’s movies and shows?

You can watch most of Pankaj Tripathi’s early works on popular OTT services like Netflix, Prime Video, Jio Cinema, Eros Now and so on. To watch most of his recent titles, Tripathi has been dabbling in many platform exclusives like Netflix (Sacred Games, Ludo), Prime Video (Mirzapur), Hotstar (Criminal Justice) and ZEE5 (Kadak Singh).

But how did Pankaj Tripathi go from acting as gangster henchmen to a suburban godfather in Mirzapur? Have a look at his versatile journey so far.

Wasseypur/Mirzapur: A Tale of Two Cities

Pankaj Tripathi struggled with early uncredited or blink-and-miss appearances in the Kannada movie Chigurida Kanasu and acclaimed Hindi titles like Omkara, Bunty Aur Babli, and Apaharan. But it was Anurag Kashyap’s two-part crime epic Gangs of Wasseypur where he truly began to be recognised in the mainstream.

Hurling a grenade and uttering obscenities in the very opening minutes of the hyper-violent period drama, Tripathi played the smart-mouthed gangster Sultan Quereshi. Appearing in a few yet crucial scenes and getting to deliver quotable dialogues, Tripathi paved the way for playing well-layered criminal characters in his future filmography.

The neo-noir Gurgaon, for instance, found him playing a criminal family patriarch while he had a more hilarious turn as a soft-hearted goon in the Netflix anthology Ludo. It’s not surprising that his Hollywood debut Extraction also featured him as a ruthless mobster.

Perhaps his best character on the other side of the law is another tough patriarch in Mirzapur, the Prime Video original crime drama that benefited greatly from Tripathi’s nonchalant dialogue delivery as the show’s overarching antagonist Akhanda Tripathi aka Kaleen Bhaiya.

Further acclaim with Newton and beyond

Newton was a dramatic highlight in Tripathi’s career with the actor playing a cynical paramilitary official who was at ideological odds with Rajkumar Rao’s idealist government servant. Playing a morally grey character with deadpan humour and grim realism, Tripathi finally could display his full dramatic range and earned his first Filmfare nomination.

While Tripathi has had a long line of villainous roles, his performances can also evoke empathy and warmth. When it comes to playing caring and supporting fathers, Tripathi has found his niche with acclaimed performances in Bareilly Ki Barfi, Gunjan Saxena, and OMG 2.

A notable performance with Tripathi in the lead includes Kaagaz that followed him portraying a farmer and activist who fights against the Indian bureaucracy after his name is wiped off government records.

Other lead roles include a village leader-turned-tiger hunter in the Netflix adventure drama Sherdil, and an investigator with retrograde amnesia in the cerebral thriller Kadak Singh. And taking charge in an OTT series like Criminal Justice, the once-ignored actor has successfully carved his niche in numerous genres.

Why is Sacred Games Pankaj Tripathi’s best work to watch?

While Sacred Games was a trailblazer in Indian streaming from its first season itself, it’s Pankaj Tripathi’s hair-raising performance as a brainwashing godman in season 2 that made this Netflix original all the more compelling to watch.

The International Emmy-nominated series is a gritty neo-noir with career-best performances from Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. As for Tripathi, he evokes fear and awe in his villainous turn as Khanna Guruji, a character that has only been  all the more socially relevant with time.

Awarded annually by the film magazine of the same name, the Filmfare Awards celebrate the best of Bollywood every year. Here’s a roundup of all the dramas, comedies, biopics, and musicals that have won the prestigious Best Film award at every Filmfare ceremony from its inception in 1954.

As the awards turn seventy this year, here’s a look at every Best Film winner along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch all the Filmfare Best Film Winners?

You can watch many of the older Best Film winners on Prime Video, Shemaroo, and ZEE5. Many of the later ones are available to stream on mainstream platforms like Netflix, Prime Video and occasionally Hotstar and Voot.

What is the latest Filmfare Best Film Winner?

12th Fail, the Vikrant Massey-led drama on the trials and tribulations of an UPSC aspirant, won the top award at the latest Filmfare ceremony. You can stream Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s tearjerker on Hotstar.

What was the first-ever movie to win Filmfare for Best Film?

Bimal Roy’s acclaimed social drama Do Bigha Zamin won the Best Film award in Filmfare’s inaugural year. One can stream the Balraj Sahni and Nirupa Roy-led movie on Vi Movies & TV, the streaming platform associated with the mobile network provider Vi.

Which movie won Filmfare’s Special 50 Year Award?

Often considered as the best Hindi movie of all time, the Western epic Sholay never won a Filmfare at the time of its release. Instead, it lost Best Film to another iconic Amitabh Bachchan-starrer (Deewar). However, in 2005, to mark 50 years of the awards, Filmare instituted a Special 50 Year Award to celebrate the best movie of these five decades. It’s this time when Sholay redeemed itself on the Filmfare stage earning this all-time-great title. The Indian pop culture trailblazer can be streamed on Prime Video.

Were the Filmfare Awards ever cancelled?

The Filmfare Awards for 1986 and 1987 were not awarded owing to some unspecified security reasons. There are high chances, however, for the cancellation stemmed in Bollywood’s strike against the state government of Maharashtra in 1986.

Which Directors have the most Filmfare Best Film Wins?

Having directed five Best Film winners at the Filmfares, Sanjay Leela Bhansali sets the record for being the director with the most wins. Director/producers Yash Chopra and Bimal Roy are tied with the record of producing the highest number of Best Film winners (four each).

Which Actors have appeared in the most Filmfare Best Film winners?

Despite his reluctance to appear at award ceremonies like Filmfare, Aamir Khan has starred in nine winning films, the most for any actor in a leading role. As for leading actresses, a record of three films has been set by Nutan, Madhuri Dixit, Rani Mukerji, Aishwarya Rai, and Alia Bhatt.

Every Filmfare Award Winner for Best Film: A complete list

• 1954 - Do Bigha Zamin
• 1955 - Boot Polish
• 1956 - Jagriti
• 1957 - Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje
• 1958 - Mother India
• 1959 - Madhumati
• 1960 - Sujata
• 1961 - Mughal-e-Azam
• 1962 - Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai
• 1963 - Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam
• 1964 - Bandini
• 1965 - Dosti
• 1966 - Himalaya Ki Godmein
• 1967 - Guide
• 1968 - Upkar
• 1969 - Brahmachari
• 1970 - Aradhana
• 1971 - Khilona
• 1972 - Anand
• 1973 - Be-Imaan
• 1974 - Anuraag
• 1975 - Rajnigandha
• 1976 - Deewaar
• 1977 - Mausam
• 1978 - Bhumika
• 1979 - Mai Tulsi Tere Aangan Mei
• 1980 - Junoon
• 1981 - Khubsoorat
• 1982 - Kalyug
• 1983 - Shakti
• 1984 - Ardh Satya
• 1985 - Sparsh
• 1986 - Ram Teri Ganga Maili
• 1989 - Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak
• 1990 - Maine Pyar Kiya
• 1991 - Ghayal
• 1992 - Lamhe
• 1993 - Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar
• 1994 - Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke
• 1995 - Hum Aapke Hai Koun…!
• 1996 - Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
• 1997 - Raja Hindustani
• 1998 - Dil To Pagal Hai
• 1999 - Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
• 2000 - Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
• 2001 - Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai
• 2002 - Lagaan
• 2003 - Devdas
• 2004 - Koi... Mil Gaya
• 2005 - Veer-Zaara
• 2006 - Black
• 2007 - Rang De Basanti
• 2008 - Taare Zameen Par
• 2009 - Jodhaa Akbar
• 2010 - 3 Idiots
• 2011 - Dabangg
• 2012 - Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
• 2013 - Barfi!
• 2014 - Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
• 2015 - Queen
• 2016 - Bajirao Mastani
• 2017 - Dangal
• 2018 - Hindi Medium
• 2019 - Raazi
• 2020 - Gully Boy
• 2021 - Thappad
• 2022 - Shershaah
• 2023 - Gangubai Kathiawadi
• 2024 - 12th Fail

With a career spanning across six decades and over a hundred films to his name, the late legend Dev Anand carved his name in the higher echelons of Bollywood alongside other iconic artistes like Dilip Kumar and Guru Dutt. If you too are an admirer of Anand’s timeless filmography as an actor and director, we’ve got you covered with a definitive list of his best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you stream Dev Anand’s best movies?

You can watch most of Dev Anand’s mainstream hits and cult favourites on Prime Video and Eros Now. As for the rest of his filmography, you can watch many of them on ZEE5 and Vi Movies & TV as well. Voot, Shemaroo, and YUPP TV are other platforms to stream.

Dev Anand: A “Guide” to his Legendary Career

Struggling to make his mark since the last years of the British Raj, the man born as Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand made his early breakthrough in post-Independence India with the 1948 social drama Ziddi, where his charming persona and nuanced acting captivated audiences.

He continued to shine in iconic films like Guru Dutt’s revolutionary neo-noir Baazi (1951) and Vijay Anand’s globally-acclaimed tragedy Guide (1965), which showcased his shapeshifting versatility and unconventional approach to storytelling. His collaboration with directors like Guru Dutt and Vijay Anand resulted in timeless classics that redefined Indian cinema's narrative and aesthetic norms.

Other timeless hits in Anand’s repertoire include the empathetic war drama Hum Dono  (1961), the crime caper Jewel Thief (1967), the prison drama Kaala Pani (1958), and the heist thriller Johny Mera Naam (1970), Anand's career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood.

In Hum Dono, the “Evergreen Star of Bollywood” showcased his acting prowess by portraying dual roles of wartorn soldiers with nuance and depth, earning critical acclaim for his performance. Jewel Thief further solidified his status as a leading man, with his charismatic portrayal of a master thief entangled in a web of intrigue and suspense.

Kaala Pani exemplified Anand's ability to delve into darker themes, portraying a convict facing injustice and redemption in the notorious Cellular Jail of Andaman. The film's gripping narrative and Anand's compelling performance garnered widespread acclaim.

Johny Mera Naam epitomized Anand's collaboration with director Vijay Anand, delivering a high-octane thriller that became a blockbuster hit. Anand's portrayal of the titular character, a suave conman seeking revenge, resonated with audiences and further solidified his status as a matinee idol.

As a filmmaker, Paying Guest (1957), marked the beginning of a successful directorial career. Films like Hare Krishna Hare Ram (1971) dared to explore then-taboo subjects like drug abuse with sensitivity, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Why is Guide Dev Anand’s best movie to watch?

Guide, based on RK Narayan's tragic romantic novel of the same name, is arguably Dev Anand's strongest work as a serious actor. The movie kicks off with Anand's playful tour guide who goes through a major existential crisis after a turbulent romance gone wrong and a stint as a false prophet. Taking on multiple themes like loveless relationships and existential nihilism, Guide benefits greatly from not just Anand's lead turn but also a career-best performance by Waheeda Rahman as an unhappily married woman who crosses the protagonist's path.

While the Vijay Anand-directed feature lacks the merry song-and-dance numbers of Anand's previous filmography, composer SD Burman and lyricist Shailendra unite for some classic poetically introspective songs playing out in the backdrop of grand set pieces laden with magical realism. Decades since its release, the legacy of Guide lives on among Bollywood worshippers with even Cannes Film Festival screening it after 42 years in 2007.

Kiara Advani’s 2014 debut Fugly was not particularly memorable but within a decade, she has established herself as a bankable Bollywood heroine with credits in hits like Kabir Singh and Shershaah. If you too are a fan of the actress who will next be seen in Don 3, have a look at our curated list of her best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Kiara Advani’s filmography?

You can watch most of Kiara Advani’s best movies on Netflix and Prime Video although Hotstar also offers a few streaming options. Netflix, in particular, is a good place to start, as Advani has also fronted some of the streaming platform’s Indian originals like the thriller drama Guilty and the erotic anthology Lust Stories. She also had a brief cameo as herself in the Netflix original comedy series Masaba Masaba.

Once you’ve got your Kiara Advani watchlist sorted out, have a look at some of her best cinematic highlights.

Early beginnings and Lust Stories breakout

Kiara Advani made her screen debut in the Akshay Kumar-produced crime comedy Fugly (you can rent it on Apple, YouTube or Google Play). While the movie polarised critics, Advani’s sophomore feature was a stronger effort with the sports biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story. With Indian thriller veteran Neeraj Pandey directing and the late Sushant Singh Rajput essaying the role of the titular character, the blockbuster found her playing Dhoni’s wife Sakshi Rawat.

But still, Advani needed a role that made her truly standout instead of just being assigned to a formulaic love interest. This is where Karan Johar’s acclaimed segment in Lust Stories came into play. Addressing the conservative taboos around the sexual lives of married Indian women, Advani plays a newlywed bride who navigates her way through a healthy sexual life and the joy of self-pleasure.

Lust Stories paved the way for Advani’s future female-centric dramas like Guilty in which she played a singer caught in the midst of a sexual harassment scandal and Indoo Ki Jawaani that found her starring as a Ghaziabad girl discovering online dating.

Continued commercial breakthrough with Kabir Singh and Shershaah

While Lust Stories established Advani among the critics, it was the controversial tragiromance Kabir Singh that made her a household name. A Hindi remake of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Arjun Reddy, Kabir Singh starred Shahid Kapoor as the titular antihero, an alcoholic romantic with anger issues. Advani played Preeti, the girl who falls for Kabir with utmost devotion. But when their love story can’t reach a happy ending, the romance turns toxic. Upon release, Kabir Singh broke box-office records and brought Advani further fame even though the film’s particularly toxic traits did draw much discussion and debate on glorification of morally grey heroes.

A relatively less toxic romantic drama to watch in Advani’s career is the real-life Indian Army martyr Captain Vikram Batra in the war biopic Shershaah. The movie is notable for its gruelling exploration of the Kargil War and one soldier’s journey through love and patriotism. Siddharth Malhotra essays the lead role while Kiara Advani plays his love interest, a story that had real-life consequences with Malhotra and Advani marrying soon afterwards.

Why is Lust Stories Kiara Advani’s best movie to watch?

Shershaah and MS Dhoni come to a close second for their overall merits but the short film from Lust Stories is Advani’s best work in terms of her taking centre stage. The message of the film, coupled with the actress’s earnest portrayal of a sexually prude woman continue to make it a timely watch.

Konkona Sen Sharma had already showcased a chameleon-like versatility in Hindi and Bengali cinema. But with A Death In The Gunj and a segment in Lust Stories 2, the actress has also proven her dramatic capabilities as a director. If you are a new recruit to the Konkona Sen Sharma fandom, we have got the ultimate list for you. Have a glance at her best screen credits along with a handy guide on where to stream them.

Where can you stream Konkona Sen Sharma’s best movies?

Most of Konkona Sen Sharma’s older movies can be streamed on Prime Video and Netflix while Hotstar and Jio Cinema might also offer some streaming options. You can watch most of her post-pandemic movies on Netflix while her first OTT series (Mumbai Diaries) and directorial debut (A Death in the Gunj) can be streamed on Prime Video. Her sophomore series Killer Soup is a Netflix original.

Konkona Sen Sharma’s Career At A Glance

She made her debut in Bengali cinema with the film Ek Je Aachhe Kanya in 2000, a tough role for a debutant considering Sharma was playing a mentally fragile teenager unhealthily obsessed with her neighbour.

In Hindi cinema, Sharma took on supporting parts in movies like the Othello adaptation Omkara and the dark comedy 7 Khoon Maaf, she gained initial acclaim for the social satire Page 3. In Madhur Bhandarkar’s cult favourite, she portrayed a journalist navigating the murky world of tabloid reporting with conviction.

Her 2000s highlights also included the romantic anthology Life In A Metro, starring alongside the late Irrfan Khan as a heartwarming but realistic couple. Apart from mainstream performances like that of a struggling actress in Zoya Akhtar’s directorial debut Luck By Chance and that of an enigmatic witch in the neo-Gothic drama Ek Thi Daayan, Sharma has been a mainstay in niche Hindi and Bengali productions.

A prime case in point is Mr and Mrs Iyer, where she essayed the role of a Tamil Brahmin woman stranded amidst communal tensions, delivering a performance that was both poignant and powerful. Returning to her Bengali roots, her collaboration with acclaimed directors like Rituparno Ghosh and Aparna Sen further solidified her reputation as one of the finest actors of her generation.

Whether it was portraying the complexities of relationships in films like the coming-of-age drama Wake Up Sid or delving into the dark recesses of the human psyche in the fact-based crime drama Talvar, Sharma’s performances continue to be venerated among audiences craving a contemporary new wave in Bollywood.

While she has not exactly been a crowd-puller for any big-budget solo ventures, the actress has effortlessly transitioned to the OTT space getting top billing in Prime Video’s medical drama series Mumbai Diaries, Neeraj Ghaywan’s segment in the Netflix anthology Ajeeb Daastans, and playing one of the titular characters in the Netflix feminist drama Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare.

Her performance in Ajeeb Daastans drew immense critical acclaim with praise directed to Ghawyan’s sensitive direction and Sharma’s portrayal of a Dalit androgynous woman in love with her co-worker. The raves just proved that Sharma still has what it takes to challenge herself and explore new narratives.

Why is A Death in the Gunj Konkona Sen Sharma’s best movie to watch?

Konkona Sen Sharma’s English-Hindi-Bengali directorial debut was an atmospheric period thriller, bolstered by a talented ensemble including Vikrant Massey, Kalki Koelchin, Jim Sarbh and many more. Exploring a dysfunctional family but devoid of any forced melodrama, A Death In The Gunj allows its actress-turned-director to tap into human emotions while also building enough suspense for the titular murder. Her short on sexual voyeurism in Lust Stories 2 is also impressive but it’s her first stint as director that takes the top spot.

N.T. Rama Rao Junior, or Jr. NTR as he’s more popularly known, is a Telugu superstar with over 30 lead roles to his name. Have a glimpse at the RRR hero’s best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you stream the best Jr. NTR movies?

Hotstar, Prime Video, and Sun NXT offer a lot of streaming options although you can watch Jr. NTR’s most popular title RRR on Netflix.

Jr. NTR’s Career at a Glance

When your grandfather is an actor and filmmaker with over 300 films to his name and your father too is an actor and producer, you seem to be destined to enter the film industry. This is what happened in the case of Jr. NTR who began making his mark as a child artiste in Telugu movies.

An early career highlight was his lead turn as the Hindu god Ram in Ramayanam, an adaptation of the religious epic Ramayan notably featuring an ensemble made out of only child actors.

However, it was his breakthrough as a lead actor in the 2001 romantic drama Ninnu Choodalani that marked the beginning of a stellar journey. Known for his dynamic screen presence and effortless portrayal of diverse characters, Jr. NTR quickly became a force to reckon with in the Telugu film industry.

Jr. NTR's ability to seamlessly transition between intense roles and light-hearted characters is evident in his filmography. Whether it's essaying the role of a righteous young man fighting against injustice in the coming-of-age action drama Student No. 1 or showcasing his comedic timing in Adhurs, he has displayed a remarkable range that resonates with audiences across demographics.

Moreover, his performance in films like the fantasy-action comedy Yamadonga showcased his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional roles, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success. The 2007 hit found him starring in a double role as an orphaned thief and Yama, the Hindu god of death.

His collaborations with blockbuster auteur like SS Rajamouli have resulted in gargantuan successes such as the 2003 action film Simhadri and the 2022 Oscar-winning period epic RRR, where Jr. NTR's portrayal of powerful and charismatic characters garnered widespread acclaim.

RRR’s unprecedented popularity among global audiences paved a new career highlight for Jr. NTR who even got to attend award ceremonies like Golden Globes and the Oscars. While the Globe and Oscar-winning song “Naatu Naatu” didn’t find him sharing his foot-tapping chemistry with co-star Ram Charan, the Telugu star clearly made his presence felt in Hollywood.

Now, as he stars in the upcoming pan-Indian action drama Devara and plans to make his Hindi-language debut with the YRF Spy Cinematic Universe sequel War 2, Jr. NTR is only getting started.

Why is RRR Jr. NTR’s best movie to watch?

Unabashedly over-the-top and self-aware in its grandiose action theatrics, RRR honours overlooked freedom fighters in India’s colonial history while paving a new chapter in contemporary blockbuster filmmaking. Fresh off the success of his two-part Baahubali franchise, SS Rajamouli united Telugu titans Jr. NTR and Ram Charan as Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitaram Raju, two revolutionaries who bring down the oppressive British empire to its knees (with a lot of explosions, gravity-defying hijinks, and an armada of CGI-rendered animals).

Instead of nitpicking any rational physics or historical accuracy, RRR makes for a highly entertaining watch with the triumphant song-and-dance number “Naatu Naatu” as an added bonus. Going through physical workouts to play the valiant co-hero, Jr. NTR has never looked this tougher and never danced this better. RRR will be remembered for its high-octane stunt choreography and its standout song which achieved the rare feat of India winning at the Oscars.

Kennedy John Victor or Chiyaan Vikram as his fans call him, has endured as one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars since the 2000s. The actor is in his 50s now but he continues delivering hits like Mahaan and the Ponniyin Selavan franchise. If you too are a fan of the Tamil megastar’s films, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best Vikram movies to watch along with a handy guide to stream them.

Where can you stream Vikram’s best movies?

Prime Video and Sun NXT are leading platforms to watch Vikram’s best movies while some of them can also be viewed on Netflix. You can watch some of his older movies on ZEE5, Hotstar, Lionsgate Play, Aha, Eros Now, Hungama and other OTT services.

Vikram’s Career at a Glance

Vikram embarked on his acting journey with the Tamil film En Kadhal Kanmani in 1990. However, it was his breakout role in Bala's Sethu (1999) that marked the onset of his illustrious career.

Vikram's commitment to his roles is evident in his ability to transform himself for each character he portrays. Known for his willingness to undergo physical and emotional changes, he has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

One of Vikram's most acclaimed performances came in Shankar's psychological thriller Anniyan (2005), where he portrayed three distinct characters, showcasing his remarkable range as an actor. His portrayal of a morally transient man with multiple personality disorder earned him widespread praise and further solidified his position as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema.

Vikram's versatility is evident in his diverse choice of roles spanning various genres. From action-packed thrillers like Saamy (2003) to emotionally charged dramas like Pithamagan (2003), he effortlessly embodies a wide spectrum of characters. His portrayal of an ostracised grave digger in Pithamagan earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor.

In addition to his acting prowess, Vikram is known for his inclination towards pushing the boundaries of Tamil cinema. Collaborating with visionary directors, he has explored unconventional storylines in films like I (2015) and Raavanan (2010), showcasing both his acting prowess and willingness to take risks in his craft.

The former reunited Vikram with Anniyan filmmaker Shankar with the actor playing a mild-mannered bodybuilder who gets disfigured after making multiple enemies along the way. With hauntingly realistic prosthetics and Vikram undergoing a vigorous physical training, I channeled the actor’s emotional prowess to heartbreaking levels.

Raavanan, on the other hand, united him with Tamil auteur Mani Ratnam. A dark and gritty reimagining of the Hindu epic Ramayan, Raavanan found Vikram playing a forest rebel vigilante who abducts a policeman’s wife (Aishwarya Rai) to seek revenge for his oppressed community. Interestingly, the movie’s Hindi counterpart Raavan found him playing the authoritarian policeman this time.

Ratnam later paired Rai and Vikram together for his two-part period epic Ponniyin Selavan. Based on the classic Tamil novel series of the same name, Ponniyin Selavan followed Vikram as Chola emperor Aditha Karikalan as he gets embroiled in a royal conspiracy in medieval South India. Both movies set new box-office records for the industry and continued Vikram’s ascent to stardom.

Why is Mahaan Vikram’s Best Movie to Watch?

A rousing father-son story doubling as a gangster drama, Karthik Subbaraj’s Mahaan was an effective comeback for Vikram in all senses. The actor embraced his aging persona while also balancing his timeless charm as he plays a teacher who changes his life around after leaving an oppressive system and his caring family. Years later, when his Gandhian police officer of a son (played by Vikram’s own son Dhruv Vikram) wages war against him, matters get interesting enough for a memorable viewing experience.

Naseeruddin Shah has left his mark as the poster boy of ‘80s-era parallel cinema and as the go-to character actor in many a mainstream Bollywood hit. If you are a fan of Shah’s versatile work, then have a look at the maestro’s best movies along with a guide on where to stream them.

Naseeruddin Shah’s Career at a Glance

Born in 1950, in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, Shah embarked on his acting journey with a remarkable debut in Shyam Benegal's endearing social drama Nishant (1975). His foray into cinema signaled the emergence of a formidable talent capable of embodying a diverse array of characters with conviction and authenticity.

Throughout his career spanning over four decades, Shah has fearlessly embraced challenging roles across a spectrum of genres. In the cult satirical comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), he delivered a memorable performance as a photographer embroiled in a political conspiracy, seamlessly blending humor with social commentary.

Shah's versatility shone through in his portrayal of the troubled protagonist in Masoom (1983), a poignant exploration of family dynamics and forgiveness. His nuanced performance of a man struggling to father his illegitimate child, elicited both empathy and admiration from audiences and critics alike.

In the realm of parallel cinema, Shah's collaborations with visionary filmmakers yielded cinematic gems that continue to resonate with audiences. Sparsh (1980), directed by Sai Paranjpye, showcased Shah's ability to delve into the intricacies of human relationships with sensitivity and depth. His portrayal of a visually impaired principal challenged societal perceptions and earned him widespread acclaim.

Paar (1984), directed by Goutam Ghose, provided Shah with another opportunity to showcase his acting prowess. Set against the backdrop of rural India, the film depicted the struggles of a couple oppressed by the feudal system. Shah's portrayal of a disillusioned cart puller captured the essence of despair and resilience with remarkable authenticity.

Shah's commitment to excellence extended beyond traditional Bollywood fare, as evidenced by his collaboration with auteurs such as Govind Nihalani (the anti-caste legal drama Aakrosh), Gulzar (the divorce-centric romantic drama Ijaazat), and Saeed Akhtar Mirza (the urban angst-ridden character study Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai).

In the 2000s, Shah made a detour to Hollywood, playing Captain Nemo in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. While the movie polarised critics and audiences, an aging Shah continued to shine in supporting roles back home.

For instance, the sports drama Iqbal (2005) found him playing a washed-out alcoholic cricketer who becomes an unlikely mentor to the titular protagonist. In the crime thriller A Wednesday (2008), directed by Neeraj Pandey, Shah delivered a riveting performance as a common man driven to extreme measures in the face of injustice. His portrayal of the unnamed protagonist resonated with audiences, elevating the film to cult status.

At the same time, old age didn’t stop Shah from taking on morally complex lead roles in adult dramas. The best example in this case is the Ishqiya franchise in which he played a poetry-writing goon with an affinity for twisted romances. The Dirty Picture similarly found him playing a casanova actor in the sleazy ‘80s film industry.

Why is Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro Naseeruddin Shah’s best movie to watch?

Revolving around the exploits of two photojournalists uncovering corruption in the city, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro is a satire that somehow stays relevant with every decade. Shah offers a humorous lead performance along with perfectly-cast co-stars like Pankaj Kapur, Om Puri, and Satish Shah. The film bombed at the box-office but its dark social commentary coupled with slapstick goofiness makes it a cult favourite today.

Where can you stream Naseeruddin Shah’s filmography?

You can stream most of Shah’s works on Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, Shemaaro, Jio Cinema, and VI Movies. Arthouse fans can stream many of his critically acclaimed parallel cinema features on Mubi.

For decades now, Nagarjuna has endured as one of the most bankable stars in Telugu movies. If you are a diehard fan of the Mass and Don actor, then we have got the definitive list of the best Nagarjuna movies along with a handy guide on where to stream them.

Where can you watch Nagarjuna’s filmography?

Hotstar, Sun NXT, ZEE5, Vi Movies, Voot, Eros Now, Prime Video and Netflix are ideal platforms to go on a Nagarjuna binge watch session.

Nagarjuna’s Career at a Glance

Nagarjuna hails from a prestigious film family, with his father, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, being a legendary actor. His own son Akkikkeni Nagarjuna has gone on to be a popular Telugu actor. But Nagarjuna has managed to carve his own niche as a star capable of leading action thrillers, romantic comedies, and slice-of-life dramas.

Debuting in 1986 with the Telugu film Vikram, directed by V. Madhusudhan Rao, Nagarjuna quickly gained attention for his charismatic screen presence and dynamic dance moves. However, his breakthrough came with Majnu (1987), where he portrayed a captivating young man entangled in a love triangle. This success propelled him to stardom, laying the groundwork for a prolific career.

Throughout his journey, Nagarjuna has effortlessly portrayed a wide range of characters across genres. From romantic dramas like Geethanjali (1989) and Ninne Pelladatha (1996) to action-packed thrillers such as Siva (1989) and Don (2007), and intense dramas like Annamayya (1997) and Manam (2014), he has garnered acclaim and adoration.

Beyond acting, Nagarjuna has made significant contributions as a producer through his company, Annapurna Studios, nurturing emerging talent in the industry. His ventures into Hindi cinema with films like Ram Gopal Varma’s cult crime classic Shiva (1990) and the Amitabh Bachchan-fronted epic romance Khuda Gawah (1992) expanded his fan base, establishing him as a pan-Indian star.

One of his most recent Hindi hits included a superpowered divine being in Brahmastra Part One Shiva, the first installment of the Ranbir Kapoor-led Astraverse. Despite a brief role, Nagarjuna proved how despite his leading man status, he can often share screen space with other rising stars.

A great example of Nagarajuna’s later roles is similarly in Oopiri, the Telugu remake of the French drama The Intouchables. Playing a wheelchair bound, introverted millionaire, Nagarjuna seamlessly sunk his teeth into the role while sharing impeccable chemistry with a younger star like Karthi who plays his free-spirited caretaker.

And at the same time, Nagarjuna still lives up to his hero status in his 60s with a recent case in point being the military thriller Wild Dog in which the Telugu industry stalwarts plays a National Investigative Agency operative leading a black-ops team. The man who played the rowdy college student in Shiva still has what it takes to cook up a storm.

Why is Shiva/Siva Nagarjuna’s best movie to watch?

While many of Nagarjuna’s mass entertainers are exciting to watch, it’s the Ram Gopal Varma cult hit Shiva (Hindi)/Siva (Telugu) that adds a unique depth to mainstream Indian action. Set in the context of gang violence in a college, Nagarjuna plays a violent student who gets embroiled in a larger criminal conspiracy. With subversive introspection on youth and masculinity, Shiva has only aged well with time for both Hindi and Telugu audiences. The scene with Nagarjuna’s Shiva beating his adversaries to pulp with nothing but a bicycle chain wrapped around his fists, has gone down as one of the most memorable visuals of ‘90s-era cinema in the country.

Anushka Sharma has had an interesting career, from having a mainstream acting debut in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi to producing critically acclaimed ventures like the Netflix psychological horror-drama Qala. If you’re an Anushka Sharma fan, have a look at our picks for her best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Anushka Sharma’s filmography?

Mainstream OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are abundant in Anushka Sharma’s romances, comedies, and dramas. You can watch some of her other movies on other streaming services like ZEE5, Eros Now, Jio Cinema, and Hotstar.

Still confused on what Anushka Sharma movie to watch? Let’s have a closer look at her career.

Anushka Sharma’s Career at a Glance

Born in Ayodhya and raised in Bangalore, Anushka Sharma started out in her career with modeling for late fashion designer Wendell Rodricks. As for her acting break, Sharma was only 20 years old when she starred alongside Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan in Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008).

Her portrayal of a vivacious young woman opposite a loving but meek husband (Shah Rukh Khan) garnered widespread acclaim and marked the beginning of a stellar career. The movie had its fair share of heartwarming drama and goofy comedy with Khan changing his identity as a cooler, more fashionable dancer to woo his wife.

Throughout her career spanning over a decade, Sharma has fearlessly embraced diverse roles, challenging stereotypes and pushing boundaries. In Band Baaja Baarat (2010), directed by Maneesh Sharma, she delivered a breakthrough performance as a feisty wedding planner, earning her a Filmfare Award for Best Actress. Her infectious energy and natural charisma endeared her to audiences, establishing her as a talent to watch.

Her effortless charm in romantic comedies could be seen with roles in the John Tucker Must Die remake Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl and Zoya Akhtar’s ensemble travel comedy Dil Dhadakne Do (paired opposite her Band Baaja Baaraat co-star Ranveer Singh in each of the two films). More emotional dramas like Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil showcased her serious skills, sharing screenspace with talented ensembles led by Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor and more.

Sharma's versatility as a lead actress actor came to the fore in films like NH 10 (2015), a gritty thriller that showcased her range and depth. In the film, Sharma portrayed a woman on a quest for justice in the face of adversity, delivering a riveting performance that earned her widespread praise.

Her talents as a lead could also be seen in the horror-comedy Phillauri in which she played a friendly ghost in a Punjabi village. Conversely, she delivered a spine-chilling turn as a possessed woman in the gritty horror Pari.

Both Phillauri and Pari marked Sharma’s early stint in production with her company Clean Slate Filmz. With future production credits like Anvita Dutt’s feminist horrors Bulbbul and Qala along with the Prime Video neo-noir series Pataal Lok and the Netflix crime thrillers Kohrra and Mai: A Mother’s Rage, Sharma has been instrumental in championing innovative storytelling, bold narratives, and supporting underrated talent.

Why is NH-10 Anushka Sharma’s best movie to watch?

While loosely adapted from the Kelly Reilly and Michael Fassbender-led thriller Eden Lake, NH 10 stars Anushka Sharma as a woman who bears witness to a heinous honour killing by a gang. With her husband dead and the gangsters pursuing her, director Navdeep Singh builds an eerie chillness with Sharma’s protagonist fighting all odds to survive. Tackling on themes like patriarchy and urban vigilantism, NH-10 marked Anushka Sharma’s stunning debut as a producer as well as a leading actress who can hold her own.

He might have reached his 60s now but age isn’t stopping Mohanlal from reigning supreme in Malayalam cinema. If you love the veteran actor’s multi-decade career, we have got the perfect list for you to glance at his best movies along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Where can you watch Mohanlal’s filmography?

Some of Mohanlal’s recent movies like Drishyam 2 were released directly on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video. As for his other theatrical releases, one can watch them in varied OTT services like Prime, Netflix, Hotstar, Sun NXT, Aha, Eros Now, and Lionsgate Play.

Mohanlal’s Career at a Glance

Mohanlal Viswanathan, widely known as Mohanlal, stands as an illustrious figure in Indian cinema, particularly in the Malayalam film industry. Born on May 21, 1960, in Kerala, India, Mohanlal's journey to cinematic stardom is a testament to his unparalleled talent, versatility, and dedication.

Mohanlal's entry into the world of acting was marked by his debut in the Malayalam film Manjil Virinja Pookkal in 1980, directed by Fazil. Although his initial roles went largely unnoticed, it was his portrayal of antagonist characters that caught the audience's attention. With his impeccable acting skills and natural flair, Mohanlal swiftly rose to prominence, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after actors in the industry.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over four decades, Mohanlal has delivered an extensive range of performances across various genres, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an actor. Whether it be intense dramas, romantic comedies, or action-packed thrillers, Mohanlal's ability to immerse himself into diverse characters has earned him widespread acclaim and adoration.

One of Mohanlal's most iconic roles came in the 1986 crime drama Rajavinte Makan, directed by Thampi Kannanthanam. His portrayal of Vincent Gomas, a character driven by vengeance, garnered critical acclaim and further solidified his position as a powerhouse performer.

Subsequently, Mohanlal continued to captivate audiences with memorable performances in films like the feel-good musical drama Bharatham (1991), the Indo-French psychological dance-centric thriller Vanaprastham (1999), and the mind-twisting crime drama Drishyam (2013), each showcasing his unparalleled acting prowess.

Age is just a number for the Malayalam superstar as he continues to excel as a leading man in recent hits like the sequel to Drishyam, and the epic action period drama Malaikottai Vaaliban (2024).

Beyond his on-screen brilliance, Mohanlal has also ventured into various other aspects of filmmaking. He has successfully donned the hat of a producer with his production company, Pranavam Arts, and has also exhibited his directorial skills in films like the 2024 epic fantasy Barroz that finds Mohanlal also playing the titular character, a guardian of Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama’s treasure.

Mohanlal's contributions to Indian cinema extend beyond the borders of Malayalam cinema. He has made notable appearances in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films, winning accolades and admiration from audiences across the country. His ability to seamlessly adapt to different languages and cultures further underscores his status as a truly versatile actor.

Why is Manichithrathazhu Mohanlal’s best movie to watch?

Manichithrathazhu is a cult horror-comedy that went on to be remade in numerous languages like Tamil (Chandramukhi) and Hindi (Bhool Bhulaiyaa). But none of these remakes match Mohanlal’s original that is effective with subtleties in its comedies and a genuine atmospheric chillness echoes with its premise of a woman being possessed by a dancer’s spirit. Mohanlal plays a psychiatrist intent on solving the mystery connected to a spooky, old bungalow. There’s a lot to uncover in this hilarious but profound horror that continues to entertain Mohanlal fans to this day.

Hansal Mehta didn’t break out early in his career but since the 2010s, he has emerged as one of Bollywood’s most prolific directors and TV showrunners. If you’re a fan of Hansal Mehta’s movies and OTT shows, here’s a ranking of his best works along with a guide on where to stream them.

Where can you watch Hansal Mehta’s movies and TV shows?

Most of Hansal Mehta’s movies are available to watch on leading streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. His TV shows are exclusive to particular OTT services. So, while you can stream Scoop on Netflix, the two seasons of Scam are available to watch on the Sony LIV app.

The Films of Hansal Mehta

Hansal Mehta has carved a niche for himself through his thought-provoking narratives, realistic storytelling, and nuanced character portrayals. Mehta began his career in the entertainment industry as a television director before transitioning to feature films. His journey as a director is marked by a diverse filmography that explores a wide range of themes and subjects with depth and sensitivity.

Mehta made his directorial debut with the critically acclaimed film Jayate in 1997, which garnered attention for its bold portrayal of corruption and social issues. However, it was his 2002 film Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar!! that brought him widespread recognition. The film, set against the backdrop of Mumbai's underbelly, received praise for its gritty realism and memorable performances.

Mehta's breakthrough came with the 2013 biographical drama Shahid, based on the life of human rights lawyer Shahid Azmi. The film received widespread acclaim for its compelling storytelling, sensitive portrayal of its protagonist, and Mehta's deft direction. Shahid not only earned Mehta the National Film Award for Best Direction but also marked a turning point in his career, establishing him as a filmmaker of substance.

Following the success of Shahid, Mehta continued to explore socially relevant themes in films like City Lights (2014), a poignant drama about a migrant family struggling to make ends meet in Mumbai, and Aligarh (2016), a sensitive portrayal of a gay professor's fight for dignity and acceptance in a conservative society. Both films received critical acclaim and further solidified Mehta's reputation as a director unafraid to tackle taboo subjects with sensitivity and empathy.

In recent years, Mehta has continued to push the boundaries of storytelling with films like Omerta (2018), a biographical crime drama based on the life of terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Chhalaang (2020), a sports comedy-drama set against the backdrop of small-town India. While Omerta showcased Mehta's ability to delve into dark and complex narratives, Chhalaang demonstrated his versatility in handling light-hearted and entertaining subjects.

The TV Shows of Hansal Mehta

Masterminding the sleeper hit Scam 1992, Mehta made his presence felt in the Indian streaming space. With its breakout star Pratik Gandhi playing real-life scamster Harshad Mehta, the series spawned a spiritual sequel with Scam 2003: The Telgi Story. Mehta also helmed a Netflix original, yet again dramatising real-life events. In Scoop, Mehta explored the unjust arrest of an investigative journalist after the criminal underworld organised a hit on her fellow reporter. Scoop went on to trend for weeks and became one of Netflix India’s most popular titles of 2023.

Why is Aligarh Hansal Mehta’s best movie to watch?

Aligarh is one of the boldest portrayals of sexuality and homophobia in contemporary Bollywood, thanks to Mehta’s empathetic direction that leaves no space for any forced preachiness or fetishisation. With Manoj Bajpayee offering a career-defining performance as a professor facing injustice for his identity, Aligarh is a movie that continues to be relevant even after a decade since its release. The movie perfectly sums up Mehta’s commitment to use his craft to undo the wrongs of a conservative society.

While his stardom couldn’t match the status of his uncle Aamir Khan, Imran Khan has also managed to carve his own fandom in Bollywood with experimental projects and lovable rom-com heroes. If you too are riding the wave of Imran Khan’s resurgence in popularity, we have curated his best movies for your viewing pleasure along with a handy guide on where to stream them.

Where can you watch Imran Khan’s best movies?

Netflix offers most of Imran Khan’s cult favourites like Delhi Belly and Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na. Other popular titles can be found on Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Prime Video, Sony LIV, and Voot.

The Rom-Coms of Imran Khan

While he appeared as a child artiste in his uncle’s ‘90s-era dramas Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Jo Jeeta Woh Sikandar, Imran Khan made his full-fledged debut with the coming-of-age romantic comedy Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na. Playing the dove-eyed lover Jai Singh Rathod, Khan’s nuanced portrayal subverted familiar notions of masculinity in Bollywood. The protagonist doesn’t just introspect on his infatuation with a college sweetheart but also struggles to step out of his family pressures.

The movie appealed to younger Indian audiences, boasted some peppy musical numbers composed by AR Rahman, and drew all eyes on Khan as Bollywood’s next big thing. Unfortunately, his stellar debut didn’t pave the way for an easy ascent as Khan’s future romances often bombed at the box-office or polarised critics.

However, retrospective views on his rom-coms have been more favourable with many wanting the now-retired actor to make a long-awaited comeback. His comedies like Ek Mai Aur Ekk Tu, Gori Tere Pyaar Mei  (both alongside Kareena Kapoor), Break Ke Baad and Mere Brother Ki Dulhan have all retained their popularity on streaming platforms with Imran Khan fans finding his protagonists to be swoon worthy “green flags”.

Imran Khan’s Experimental Side

Regardless of the turbulence that he faced with his big screen career, Khan hasn’t been afraid to experiment with multiple genres. While yielding mixed results, he tried his hand at the crime thriller genre with his sophomore feature Kidnap and the battle royale survival drama Luck. Some of his better experiments to watch include the dark comedy Delhi Belly that allowed him to shed his chocolate boy image and take on more mature roles. Then, there is Vishal Bharadwaj’s absurdist socio-political comedy Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola that found him playing a local business magnate’s loyal enforcer and an unexpected workers’ rights leader.

The period noir Once Upon A Time In Mumbai Dobaara, one of Khan’s final screen credits before retirement, starred him as Aslam Siddiqui, a mobster associate of Akshay Kumar’s Shohaib Khan (a character inspired by the real-life crimelord Dawood Ibrahim).

Why is Delhi Belly Imran Khan’s best movie to watch?

Unabashedly explicit and darkly hilarious, Delhi Belly is one of the finest dark comedies in modern Bollywood. Part of the movie’s legacy stems from screenwriter Akshshat Varma’s raw humor and the trio of lead performers: Imran Khan, Kunaal Roy Kapur, and comedian Vir Das.

The crime comedy finds the three leads playing hopeless social misfits who get embroiled in a whirlwind of criminal conspiracies and romantic misfortunes, setting a new precedent for adult comedies in India. Yes, Delhi Belly is heavy on the raunchiness and profanities but it’s all done in such an earnest manner that it rarely comes off as a cheap sex comedy. Khan might have taken a permanent sabbatical from his craft but his fans still eagerly hope for the day when they’ll get a Delhi Belly 2.

While Bollywood is dominated by the three Khans (Aamir, Salman, Shah Rukh), there is one Khan who might not match their stardom but has still constantly experimented with his craft and only matured further with age. This is the definitive list of Saif Ali Khan’s best movies along with a guide to stream them.

Where to watch Saif Ali Khan’s best movies?

Most of Saif Khan’s movies are available to watch on leading streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video along with other Indian-centric services like Jio Cinema, ZEE5, Eros Now, Shemaroo and more.

Saif Ali Khan’s film career at a glance

Saif Ali Khan was literally born into royalty as his father Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi was the Nawab of the Pataudi family. With his mother Sharmila Tagore being a prominent big screen heroine of her time, Khan was destined for Bollywood.

He debuted with the ensemble action drama Parampara (1993) but garnered attention with the musical romance Yeh Dillagi (1994). His breakthrough came with the coming-of-age buddy comedy Dil Chahta Hai (2001) with his portrayal of a hopeless romantic cementing his position as a versatile actor.

Khan's early career saw him sharing space with other megastars while holding his own dramatic ground. Examples include the Shah Rukh Khan-fronted romantic drama Kal Ho Naa Ho  (2003) and Vishal Bhardwaj’s Othello adaptation Omkara (2006). Stepping in for Shakespeare’s Othello villain Iago, Khan won accolades for his portrayal of Langda Tyagi, a role breaking from his lover-boy image.

Following this, he balanced between mainstream and offbeat cinema. Race (2008) and its sequels displayed his flair for thrillers, while Love Aaj Kal (2009) and Cocktail (2012) highlighted his romantic side.

In the 2010s, Khan embraced more experimental roles, such as the titular hero in Agent Vinod (2012) and a zombie hunter in Go Goa Gone (2013). He received critical acclaim for the Bollywood remake of Jon Favreau’s Chef in which he played a chef rediscovering his passion. Khan also explored the digital space with Sacred Games (2018-2019), earning praise for his portrayal of a troubled cop.

Apart from acting, Khan ventured into production with Illuminati Films, co-producing successful films like Cocktail and Love Aaj Kal. His production house emphasized content-driven cinema. Khan's filmography reflects a blend of commercial success and artistic integrity, showcasing his evolution as an actor and a producer.

Saif Ali Khan’s TV Shows

It must be noted that this list includes his best movies and not his two OTT shows: Sacred Games (available on Netflix) and Tandav (available on Prime Video). While the latter political drama was mostly panned by critics and audiences, the former is a must-watch for fans of the actor. The neo-noir found Khan playing Sartaj Singh, a dutiful Mumbai cop who is embroiled in a national terror conspiracy.

With critics in awe of Khan’s nuanced performance along with that of his co-star Nawazuddin Siddiqui (who played the underdog gangster Ganesh Gaitonde), Sacred Games is a cult classic today. Released as Netflix’s first Indian original, the series marked a career resurgence for Khan to take on more character roles and even garnered two International Emmy nominations.

Why is Omkara Saif Ali Khan’s best movie to watch?

Omkara is arguably one of the finest Shakespearean adaptations of the 2000s with writer-director Vishal Bhardwaj bringing the Bard’s romantic tragedy Othello to the crime-infested and politically corrupt hinterland of northern India. With Ajay Devgn playing a local enforcer and Kareena Kapoor Khan playing his romantic interest, it’s Saif Khan’s Langda Tyagi who stands out as the conspirator spewing venom between them. This was his breakout performance that proved Khan’s dramatic intensity, which would later be fleshed out in Sacred Games, Laal Kaptaan, Vikram Vedha and many other acclaimed works.

Dilip Kumar, often celebrated as the Tragedy King of Indian cinema, stands as a colossus in the history of Bollywood. If you too miss the late acting legend, we’ve got an essential watchlist of Dilip Kumar’s best movies along with a handy guide on where to watch them.

Where can you stream Dilip Kumar’s best movies?

You can watch many of Dilip Kumar’s finest movies on Prime Video, Shemaroo, ZEE5, and Vi Movies & TV.

How Muhammad Khan became Dilip Kumar: The Tragedy King’s Career at a Glance

Born as Muhammad Yusuf Khan in 1922, in Peshawar (then India, now part of Pakistan), Dilip Kumar transcended borders and generations with his unparalleled acting prowess. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most revered actors in Indian cinema is nothing short of inspirational.

Dilip Kumar's acting style was marked by depth, intensity, and emotional resonance. He had the rare ability to portray a wide range of characters with authenticity and nuance. Whether it was the anguished lover in the romantic tragedy Devdas (1955) or the conflicted prince in the period epic Mughal-e-Azam (1960), Kumar's performances left an indelible mark on the audience's psyche. His mastery over expressions, body language, and dialogue delivery set new standards for acting in Indian cinema.

One of Dilip Kumar's most notable contributions to Indian cinema was his ability to bring realism to his characters. He eschewed melodrama for subtlety, preferring to delve deep into the psyche of his roles. This approach resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning him widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including several Filmfare Awards and the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Awards.

Dilip Kumar's filmography is studded with gems that have stood the test of time. Mughal-e-Azam, directed by K. Asif, remains one of Indian cinema's crowning achievements. The epic tale of love and sacrifice, with Kumar portraying the iconic role of Prince Salim, captivated audiences and continues to be revered as a cinematic masterpiece.

Another milestone in Dilip Kumar's career is social drama Ganga Jamuna (1961), where he played the titular character, Ganga, a simple villager caught in the web of circumstances. The film showcased Kumar's versatility as he effortlessly portrayed the struggles and aspirations of a common man.

Dilip Kumar's collaboration with legendary filmmaker Bimal Roy resulted in cinematic marvels like Madhumati (1958) and Devdas. In Devdas, Kumar's portrayal of the tragic hero haunted by unrequited love remains etched in the annals of Indian cinema.

While his latter works in the 1970s and 1980s lacked the hard-hitting complexity of his earlier works, Kumar’s bravado and charisma as a leading man of many moods continued.

Kumar’s influence can be felt to this day with many seasoned actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Kamal Haasan, Mammootty, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui citing him as one of their acting inspirations. He continues to be revered in his birth country of Pakistan too with the Peshawar house in which he grew up being declared as a national heritage monument. He still retains the record of winning the most Filmfare Best Actors awards, a feat only equalled by Shah Rukh Khan.

Why is Mughal-e-Azam Dilip Kumar’s best movie?

K Asif’s Mughal-era epic Mughal-e-Azam is grandiose in all sense, from featuring lavish sets to staging elaborate song-and-dance numbers. But all the pomp and show aside, Mughal-e-Azam also survives as a Bollywood classic for its impactful performances, courtesy of an aged Prithviraj Kapoor playing the Mughal emperor Akbar and Kumar playing his rebellious son, the prince known as Jahangir. Thrown in the mix is an equally impressive Madhubala portraying the court dancer Anarkali, who creates a divide between father and son ever since Jahangir falls for her.

From assisting auteurs like Sanjay Leela Bhansali to helming his own decade-defining directorial projects, Vikramaditya Motwane has come a long way. Here’s a ranking of the Bollywood director and TV show(s) creator’s best works and a handy guide to stream them all.

Where to watch Vikramaditya Motwane’s movies and TV shows?

Most of Vikramaditya Motwane’s earlier films as a director are available to stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Jio Cinema, Alt Balaji, and ZEE5. As for his later works, most of them were exclusive to specific OTT platforms. So, while Jubilee is a Prime original, both Sacred Games and AK vs AK were exclusively released on Netflix.

The Films of Vikramaditya Motwane

After a tenure as assistant director on Bhansali’s romantic tragedies Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, Motwane tried his hand at penning scripts for the John Abraham-led football drama Goal and Anurag Kashyap’s psychedelic tragiromance Dev.D. However, it was with the dawn of the decade in 2010, when Motwane made his directorial debut with the coming-of-age tale Udaan.

Competing in the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival, Udaan opened to rave reviews and established Motwane as a new, rebellious voice of Bollywood. With memorable performances by newcomer Rajat Barmecha as a dreamy, poetry-writing teenager and serial actor-turned-Bollywood character actor Ronit Roy as his authoritarian, alcoholic father, Udaan struck an emotional note with young and old audiences alike.

But if there’s one thing that Motwane sticks to as a director - it’s not sticking to a particular genre. Hence, Udaan was followed by the period romantic drama Lootera, an Indian reimagining of author O. Henry’s melancholic short story The Last Leaf. Motwane experimented with more genres subsequently such as survival (Trapped), superhero (Bhavesh Joshi: Superhero), and mockumentary (AK vs AK).

Casting Harshvardhan Kapoor as a masked vigilante taking down corrupt Indian politicians in Bhavesh Joshi Superhero, Motwane succeeded in offering Bollywood a Batman-influenced superhero that exemplified a grassroots-level frustration at the current state of the nation.

In AK vs AK, Motwane interestingly paired Harshvardhan’s acting veteran father Anil Kapoor alongside his longtime friend and creative collaborator Anurag Kashyap. Delving into a fictional clash between the two AKs, the Netflix original satirised the true crime genre, petty celebrity fights, and the hullabaloo of the film industry as a whole.

The TV shows of Vikramaditya Motwane

Apart from cinema, Vikramaditya Motwane has also crafted some high-art television with the neo-noir Sacred Games and Jubilee, the love letter to vintage Bollywood. The former was co-created by him and Anurag Kashyap, featuring Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui as a cop and gangster engaging in a cat-and-mouse game that can annihilate the entirety of Mumbai. Jubilee, on the other hand, was poles apart with its focus being post-Independence cinema in the subcontinent. With era-accurate melodrama, Bollywood controversies drawn from real life, and Amit Trivedi’s nostalgic soundtrack, Jubilee was an instant hit for Prime Video.

Why is Udaan Vikramaditya Motwane’s best work?

Vikramaditya Motwane’s directorial debut still endures as his best work to watch, simply for its ability to tackle multiple themes and deliver on all fronts. At its core, Udaan is an exploration of a turbulent father-son relationship with both characters reflecting different shades of masculinity. But with Barmecha’s adolescent protagonist penning poems and reminiscing on his changing life throughout the narrative, Udaan is a poignant ode to the trivialities of everyday life itself. And Amit Trivedis’ rousing music for songs like Azadiyaan is still as fresh as it was in 2010.

Capturing the good, the bad, and the ugly of Indian society through his morally grey characters, Manoj Bajpayee is quite a chameleon of an actor. If you wish to watch the best of his movies and TV shows, we’ve got you covered with an ultimate ranking of his finest works and a handy guide to stream them.

Where to stream Manoj Bajpayee’s filmography?

Many of Manoj Bajpayee’s OTT work can be streamed on Prime Video, Netflix and ZEE5. These include the Prime original The Family Man and Netflix releases like Killer Soup and Ray. Interestingly, his 2023 legal drama Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai was originally a ZEE5 release but it garnered so much popularity that the movie also had a brief run at the cinemas. Most of his other theatrical releases can be streamed on these platforms along with Shermaroo, Eros NOW, Hotstar etc.

Manoj Bajpayee’s Career at a Glance

After debuting as a dacoit in Shekhar Kapur’s biographical drama Bandit Queen, Manoj Bajpayee began establishing his niche in character roles. After a string of small parts, he truly shone in the limelight for playing the dreamy-eyed Mumbai gangster Bhiku Maatre in Ram Gopal Varma’s cult crime drama Satya. Playing the titular protagonist’s partner in crime, Bajpayee’s National Award-winning portrayal humanised gangsters in Bollywood, adding a touch of emotionality behind their ruthless, blood-soaked life.

A good deal of Bajpayee’s best roles include more crime and thriller genre favourites like Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur and Varma’s psychological mystery Kaun. At the same time, Bajpayee can evoke sympathy with underdog heroes and morally righteous lawmen. Some classic examples include Shool in which he plays a duty-bound cop waging his personal crusade against corruption in the system, Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai in which he portrayed a lawyer defending a girl sexually assaulted by a godman, and Special 26 that found him playing a committed tax official who is duped by a gang of scamsters.

Apart from his mainstream appearances, Bajpayee has also been a film festival darling with many of his gut-wrenching performances finding acclaim in international film festivals. Gangs of Wasseypur’s praiseworthy debut at Cannes aside, Bajpayee’s other globally recognised credits include the social drama Aligarh in which he played a homosexual literature professor whose life turns upside down after his sexuality is forcibly revealed to the public. A bold and challenging role performed with sincerity and subtlety, Aligarh touched upon the conservative attitudes around sexual identities that still persist in the country. Other festival favourites include Joram, a human drama exploring the challenges of a father to take care of his daughter in the face of urban development and poverty, and Gali Guleiyan, a psychological drama starring Bajpayee as a voyeuristic shopkeeper who spies on strangers in Old Delhi.

Movies aside, Bajpayee’s career received a major boost on OTT platforms ever since he starred in the action-drama The Family Man that followed his double life as an undercover anti-terrorist agent and the breadwinner of his ordinary family.

Why is Gangs of Wasseypur Part 1 Manoj Bajpayee’s Best Movie?

While Manoj Bajpayee has excelled in some memorable supporting roles, a performance synonymous with his very name is that of the foul-mouthed rural gangster Sardar Khan in the first chapter of Anurag Kashyap’s crime epic Gangs of Wasseypur. The crime drama, influenced by the coal-smuggling gangs of the titular region, ambitiously succeeds in world-building and offers some hilariously amusing characters.

Bajpayee’s antiheroic lead delivers some iconic dialogues that are now immortalised in retrospective viewings, memes, merchandise and more. Capturing the character’s unlikeable emotions like debauchery and bloodlust was a task that only the twisted dramatic prowess of Bajpayee could achieve.

Actor, writer, director, producer, singer-songwriter Farhan Akhtar is a man of many talents, serving as modern Bollywood’s Renaissance man since the 2000s. If you are a fan of the Bhaag Milkha Bhaag star and wish to have a deeper look into his filmography, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best Farhan Akhtar movies and a handy guide on where to stream them.

Where can you watch Farhan Akhtar’s filmography?

Most of Farhan Akhtar’s popular theatrical releases as actor, director, and producer can be streamed on leading streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video. Some of his recent work constitute OTT originals such as Prime Video’s boxing drama Toofan and the Netflix teen comedy The Archies.

Farhan Akhtar, the director

It was unsurprising that Farhan Akhtar found his calling in Bollywood considering his parents are veteran lyricist-screenwriter Javed Akhtar and timeless thespian Shabana Azmi. Talent runs in the genes as Aktar’s sister is also Zoya Akhtar, the auteur behind modern cult favourites like the film industry satire Luck By Chance and the road trip drama Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (both of which starred her brother in the lead).

But even before he became known for his poetic dialogue delivery and husky voice, Akhtar made his name behind the camera as director. It’s his mind (and money) that birthed trendsetting Bollywood gems like the coming-of-age celebration Dil Chahta Hai,  the coming-of-age story/military epic Lakshya, and the Shah Rukh Khan-fronted reboots on Amitabh Bachchan’s crime thriller Don.

Along with producer Ritesh Sidhwani, Akhtar is also the head honcho of Excel Entertainment, the studio behind many a Farhan and Zoya Akhtar movie along with many other ventures (some like the Kannada-language KGF franchise and the popular Prime Video crime series Mirzapur).

Farhan Akhtar, the actor

As a director, Farhan Akhtar stayed within the ambit of mainstream Hindi cinema but still tried his best to add a slightly unconventional kick to his narratives, often experimenting with established genres in a more heartfelt and relatable manner. The same can be said for acting pursuits. 

Making his debut with the musical drama Rock On, Akhtar oversaw the genesis of a timeless soundtrack album which courtesy of music trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, seamlessly amalgamated Western rock soundscapes with his father Javed Akhtar’s youth-friendly, emotion-filled Urdu/Hindi lyricism. Along with co-stars like Arjun Rampal, Akhtar played a part of the fictional band Magik as Rock On chronicled the rock troupe’s rise, downfall, and redemption.

The movie also allowed Akhtar to boast his raw, energetic vocal energy. Not only did he sing popular hits from the movie like Socha Hai and Sinbad The Sailor but he went on to helm memorable tracks for many of his future projects. Cases in point include Senorita (ZNMD), Atrangi Yaari (Wazir), and the title track in Dil Dhadakne Do.

As an actor, Akhtar continued taking on experimental and challenging roles such as the Olympian athlete Milkha Singh in the sports biopic Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, a meek-mannered loner with split-personality disorder in Karthik Calling Karthik, and an ambitious Bollywood outsider trying to make it big in the industry in his sophomore acting credit Luck By Chance.

Why is Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara Farhan Akhtar’s best movie?

Directed by his sister Zoya with Farhan himself contributing to the dialogues, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is a decade-defining Bollywood road movie. Equally humorous and tearjerking, the comedy-drama charts a cross-country bachelor’s trip in Europe with three lifelong friends exploring their attitudes to love and life. Subverting familiar genre tropes with situational drama and goofily entertaining chemistry between the three leads (Farhan Akhtar, Hrithik Roshan, and Abhay Deol each offering career-best performances), ZNMD is a coming-of-age story for a new generation of Indians who grew up in the cusp of late 2000s and early 2010s.

At a time when Bollywood was obsessed with conventional looks and Greek god-like physiques for their heroes, Nawazudding Siddiqui stood out as a character actor breaking out in the mainstream. Siddiqui’s heavily diverse career on film and streaming series is documented in this essential watchlist of his best works along with a handy guide to stream them all.

Big Movies, Small Roles: Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Origins

Starting out as a chemist in Gujarat, a young Siddiqui made the move to Delhi for more artistic prospects. After a stint in theatre, he finally made it to Delhi’s prestigious and extremely competitive National School of Drama. But after graduating from NSD, Siddiqui struggled with brief blink-and-miss appearances.

So, if you watch Aamir Khan’s acclaimed cop thriller Sarfarosh, you can find him as a cowardly suspect or you can find him playing a pickpocketer in the medical comedy Munnabhai MBBS. Siddiqui had to wait for a few more years till he would get his big breakthrough.

Faizal, Gaitonde and Psycho Raman: Breakout with Anurag Kashyap Collaborations

The director Anurag Kashyap helmed some watershed moments in Siddiqui’s career starting with his terrorism-focused neo-noir Black Friday in which he played a gangster’s secretary. But despite Black Friday’s immense acclaim, Siddiqui got his big break ever since he played the charismatic, smart-mouthed gangster Faizal in Kashyap’s acclaimed two-part crime epic Gangs of Wasseypur.

Showcasing his abilities to play morally grey miscreants on screen, Siddiqui took on more villainous lead characters with Kashyap’s psychological thriller Raman Raghav 2.0 (screened at Cannes and global markets as Psycho Raman) and the first-ever Netflix original series Sacred Games (directed by Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane). While Siddiqui played the titular psychotic serial killer in the former, the latter found him playing ruthless Mumbai gangster Ganesh Gaitonde, a staple in modern Indian pop culture.

Continuing Dominance with Supporting Roles

Occasionally, Siddiqui has excelled as a lead actor as is evident from the aforementioned Sacred Games. Even after the Netflix show’s success, he held his own playing the titular Pakistani author and activist in Manto, and a morally-broken policeman in the whodunit Raat Akeli Hai.

At the same time, some of Siddiqui's finest performances are his supporting roles. A prominent example is his earnest portrayal of the overly friendly Pakistani journalist Chand Nawab in Bajrangi Bhaijaan, a drama in which his performance arguably overshadowed even that of leading man Salman Khan. One can watch Siddiqui’s other prominent supporting performances in thrillers like Kahaani, Talaash, and Monsoon Shootout.

Why is Sacred Games Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s best work?

Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2 can be crowned as Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s best movie for it simultaneously showcases his emotional range and comic timing. But his arc of a gangster on the rise is explored with even more impact in Sacred Games. With two seasons and even an International Emmy nomination for Siddiqui, this timeless Netflix classic that charts the rags-to-riches story of gangster Ganesh Gaitonde in the backdrop of a national terror conspiracy.

Siddiqui is synonymous with Gaitonde now as he effortlessly captured the character’s grueling journey with deadpan humour and a straight-faced ruthlessness. Apart from his lead performance, Sacred Games also stands out with committed acts by co-stars like Saif Ali Khan and Pankaj Tripathi along with a poignant screenplay that delves into religious heresy and communal tensions of the country.

Where can you stream Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s filmography?

A lot of Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s recent works are exclusive releases on OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and ZEE5. Most of his other theatrical releases are available on the same platforms along with Jio Cinema, Eros Now and more.

From starting out as a casting director to taking on socially relevant projects as a lead actress herself, Bhumi Pednekar has carved her niche in contemporary Bollywood in just over a decade. With her latest Netflix venture Bhakshak continuing her politically conscious acting decisions, here’s a list of Pednekar’s best movies along with a guide on where to stream them.

Where to watch Bhumi Pednekar’s filmography?

You can watch most of Bhumi Pednekar’s movies on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Eros NOW, ZEE5 and more. Some of her works are also Netflix originals such as Lust Stories and Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare.

Bhumi Pednekar’s Career at a Glance

Born to a Marathi-Haryanvi family, Bhumi Pednekar grew up to have a knack for acting right when her family took a student loan to get her admitted to Subhash Ghai’s Whistling Woods institute at the age of 15. However, teenage-era Pednekar was soon expelled from the school due to low attendance.

But this didn’t foil Pendekar’s future chances at the industry as she soon took an assistant casting director position at Yash Raj Films, securing her future. After years of casting, Pednekar herself made her acting debut with a Yash Raj production Dum Laga Ke Haisha. Paired alongside Ayushman Khurrana, the romantic comedy-drama found her playing an overweight woman who must deal with the body-shaming attitude of her newlywed husband.

The role earned her rave reviews, a Filmfare win for Best Debut, and a career of playing many more strong-willed women from Indian small-towns. Some prominent cases include the Netflix feminist drama Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare and Saand Ki Aankh. The former featured Pednekar as an erotic hotline operator who aspires to achieve bigger dreams while the latter found her playing the late sharpshooter Chandra Tomar who made headlines by taking up the sport in her 60s. 

While her projects rarely ever venture into arthouse territory, she often chooses mainstream projects with an underlying social message or more well-defined female leads. So, while Thank You For Coming took upon the issue of sexual desire from a woman’s struggle for the perfect orgasm, Bhakshak reimagined a particularly haunting case of child sexual abuse in 2018 with Pednekar playing a local journalist who broke the story.

Her equally acclaimed performance in Zoya Akhtar’s segment of the Netflix anthology Lust Stories explored social class differences from the point of view of a domestic worker who gets sexually entangled with her employer. Then there’s Badhai Do in which she played a lesbian struggling to come out to her family as they force her into a heteronormative marriage, and Shubh Mangal Savdhaan  that reunited her with Ayushman Khurrana who played a man with erectile dysfunction.

Following her Filmfare Best Debut win, Pednekar also picked up two trophies for Best Actress (Critics) category with her work in Saand Ki Aankh and Badhai Do.

Why is Bhakhsak Bhumi Pednekar’s best movie to watch?

It’s very rare for Bhumi Pednekar to deliver an unsatisfying watch but Bhakshak is nothing like what she has done before. A gut-wrenching story set in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, the social drama explores the inner workings of a shelter home that covers up some heinous crimes against underage girls. With Pednekar’s earnest portrayal as the journalist Vaishali Singh, Bhakshak empathically dramatises a real-life incident with enough boldness and minimal preachiness. The end-result is an endearing drama that deserves to be watched by everyone in the country as a wake-up call on the persisting injustice.

There’s very rarely a film in Mammootty’s much-storied screen career that doesn’t hit the right notes. Watching all of the Malayalam acting maestro’s movies can be a Herculean task but we’ve got you covered with a definitive watchlist of his best works along with a handy guide to stream them.

Before you embark on a Mammootty binge (prepare yourself for some tears and thrills), have a look how a law student became an extra and later one of the greatest Indian actors of all time.

Early Beginnings

Mammootty’s screen career spans over four decades, during which he has portrayed a diverse array of characters, ranging from intense dramatic roles to lighthearted comedies. While he was pursuing law in college, Mammootty made his screen debut as an extra in the 1971 film Anubhavangal Paalichakal and later gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough performance in Sphodanam (1975). However, it was his role as a police officer in the 1980 film Athirathram that catapulted him to stardom.

Continuing Dominance In The 1980s and 1990s

If you watch Mammootty’s cult classics from the 1980s and 1990s, he priorotised emotional prowess over flashy heroics as is evident in films like the period epic Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (1989), the prison-centric romance Mathilukal (1990), and the social drama Vidheyan (1993). His ability to effortlessly inhabit complex characters earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards, including three National Film Awards for Best Actor.

Mammootty’s Commitment To Socially Relevant Cinema

In the 2000s, Mammootty continued to showcase his versatility by taking on a diverse range of roles. From portraying historical figures like the British-fighting ruler Pazhassi Raja in Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (2009) to portraying a single father taking care of a child with cerebral palsy in Peranbu (2018), he demonstrated his willingness to push boundaries and explore unconventional characters.

His recent effort Kaathal - The Core similarly earned him rave reviews for his touching portrayal as a middle-aged gay man coming out to his wife. At a time when mainstream heroes are afraid of making any bold statements so outrightly, Mammootty has constantly upheld his morals to take on challenging roles with a positive social message.

Be it the psychological thriller Rorschach or the situational comedy of errors Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam (in which he had a double role), you can still watch a much older Mammooty (now in his 70s) still deliver a chameleon-like transformative charisma in every role. Age is just a number for this man.

Mammootty The Producer

Mammootty’s contributions to Indian cinema extend beyond acting. In 1991, he founded his production company, Playhouse Motion Pictures, to support independent and experimental films. Through his production house, he has produced several acclaimed films, including Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (2009) and Kadal Kadannu Oru Maathukutty (2013).

Why is Thaniyavartanam Mammootty’s best movie?

It’s hard to crown one Mammootty movie as his absolute best but the 1987 Malayalam drama Thaniyavartanam continues to age well with every passing decade. Featuring Mammoottty as a progressive school teacher, the Malayalam classic explores relevant themes like religious orthodoxy and superstitions in the rural hinterland of Kerala, the dwindling influence of upper-caste Nair families, and social attitudes towards people with mental illnesses. With a powerhouse performance by Mammootty and screenwriter A. K. Lohithadas razorsharp observations on society, Thaniyavartanam can be watched as an all-time Mammootty favourite.

Where can you watch Mammootty’s filmography?

Many of Mammootty’s recent movies from the late 2010s and early 2020s can be streamed on Netflix or Prime Video. If you wish to watch his older works, then Eros Now, Jio Cinema, and ZEE5 can come to your rescue.

One of the highest-paid Indian superstars, multiple National Award winner, and a titan in contemporary Tamil cinema, Dhanush amasses a gargantuan fandom in the country. If you too count yourself as a Dhanush fan, then we have got the ultimate ranking for you along with a handy guide to stream them all. 

But first, read ahead if you wish to glance at his career before you start to watch his best movies. 

2000s to 2010s: Rise to Tamil Stardom 

You can watch Dhanush’s screen debut in the 2002 release Thulluvadho Ilamai, a coming-of-age drama directed by his father Kasthuri Raja. This lauded performance was followed by other iconic roles like a man seeking revenge for his stolen bike in the action drama Thulluvadho Ilamai, a lovesick middle-class youngster in the rom-com Yaaradi Nee Mohini, and his National Award-winning turn as a rooster fight organiser in the drama Aadukalam. Both the first and last movies mentioned were directed by Tamil auteur Vetrimaran, a crucial collaborator for several iconic projects in Dhanush’s career. 

Post-2010s Dhanush: The Star Becomes More Mature

From the mid 2010s onwards, Dhanush began to display a more nuanced range in his roles and began picking up movies that were not just massy entertainers but also carried some socio-economic merit. While he continued starring in romances, crime thrillers and comedies like the acclaimed Maara series, Dhanush’s transition to more serious roles is evident in films like his later Vetrimaran collaborations: the period crime noir Vada Chennai (which still awaits a sequel) and the anti-caste action drama Asuran (that earned Dhanush another National Award for Best Actor). The 2010s also marked his directorial debut with the slice-of-life romance Power Pandi.

The ‘Why This Kolaveri Di’ Effect

Apart from his acting, Dhanush is also known all over the country (and arguably even the world) for his absurdly hilarious musical debut “Why This Kolaveri Di”. A humorous heartbreak ballad recorded for his movie 3 (which was directed by then-wife Aishwarya Rajinikanth), the accompanying video for the song became an massive viral hit in 2012 and emerged as the first Indian video to cross 100 million views on YouTube. With its nonsensical lyrics and Anirudh Ravichander’s peppy production, the Dhanush song continues to dominate Indian pop culture.

Dhanush’s Bollywood Projects

Dhanush made his Hindi-language debut as an obsessive one-sided lover in the tragic romance Ranjhanaa. Dhanush’s other Hindi movies include Shamitabh, a comedy-drama that found him playing a mute actor paired alongside Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, along with the romantic comedy Atrangi Re that reunited him with Ranjhanaa director Anand L Rai.

Dhanush Goes To Hollywood

If not Indian films, you can also watch Dhanush showcase his versatility in two Hollywood movies. First up is his delightful fantasy comedy The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir that found him sharing space with talented performers like Oscar nominee Barkhad Abidi and The Boys star Erin Moriarty. Then, on a bigger scale, Dhanush joined as a morally righteous mercenary in the ambitious Netflix action thriller The Gray Man which starred Hollywood heavyweights Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans.

Why Is Karnan Dhanush’s best movie?

Addressing notions of casteism and self-sovereignity, Karnan is a hard-hitting drama that channels the best out of Dhanush. You can watch the actor channel a youthful optimism and then balance it out with some gut-wrenching melancholia. If that’s not enough, Mari Selvaraj’s deft direction also turns Karnan into an effective action drama as the titular protagonist leads his oppressed community to war against their upper-caste oppressors.

Where can you stream Dhanush’s filmography? 

You can watch most of Dhanush’s newer projects on Netflix and Prime Video while the others are available on Sun NXT, Lionsgate Play, Aha, Eros Now, and more.

Vijay Sethupathi, an acting powerhouse in Tamil Cinema, has left an indelible mark on the industry through his unparalleled versatility and captivating performances. Here’s a definitive ranking of the multi-lingual actor’s best movies (and occasional TV appearances) along with a guide on streaming them.

From Accounting to Acting

Sethupathi's journey into acting was unconventional, transitioning from a background in accounting to pursue his passion for storytelling on the silver screen. His debut with an uncredited blink-and-miss role in the 2006 film M. Kumaran Son Of Mahalakshmi marked the beginning of a career that would redefine Indian cinema.

Renowned for his seamless portrayal of diverse characters including ruthless villains, heartwarming heroes and morally grey side characters, Sethupathi's repertoire spans across genres, from intense dramas to light hearted comedies. His ability to inhabit complex roles has earned him acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

Vijay Sethupathi Delivers Pizza

The year 2012 proved pivotal for Sethupathi with the release of Pizza, a horror thriller that propelled him into the limelight. His portrayal of an aspiring filmmaker entangled in supernatural occurrences garnered widespread praise, establishing him as a formidable talent.

Sethupathi's ascent continued with acclaimed performances in films like Soodhu Kavvum, Pannaiyarum Padminiyum, and Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, showcasing his versatility and acting prowess.

A New Chapter with Vikram Vedha

However, it was his role in the 2016 neo-noir Vikram Vedha opposite R. Madhavan that solidified Sethupathi's legacy. His portrayal of a menacing gangster showcased his ability to command the screen with charisma and depth.

Vikram Vedha’s acclaim would soon be followed by moving performances in the romantic drama 96 and the anthology Super Deluxe. The former found him playing a man who unexpectedly reunites with an old flame in the course of a night while the latter featured him as a transgender parent having a turbulent relationship with her ten-year-old son.

Vijay Sethupathi in Bollywood

Beyond Tamil cinema, Sethupathi has made notable contributions to Telugu and Malayalam cinema, expanding his reach and leaving a lasting impact wherever he goes. Since 2023, he also began working in Hindi cinema with his Bollywood journey beginning with the Prime Video heist thriller Farzi (his second OTT series outing after the Netflix Tamil anthology Navarasa).

Sharing screen space with Shahid Kapoor as an artistically gifted conman, Sethupathi effortlessly sank his teeth in the role of a vigilant anti-corruption officer. His Hindi movie performances include a delightful turn as the villainous arms dealer Kali in Shah Rukh Khan’s action blockbuster Jawan and a subtle yet powerful turn as a broken man grieving in the 1980s alongside Katrina Kaif in the Hitchcockian thriller Merry Christmas.

Why is Super Deluxe Vijay Sethupathi’s best movie?

While Vijay Sethupathi has left a long line of career-best roles, his portrayal of the transgender woman Shilpa marked a defining chapter in the Tamil actor’s career. The anthology movie also benefits greatly from the rest of its ensemble with powerful performances from Fahadh Faasil, Ramya Krishnan, Samantha, and of course, the child acting talent Ashwanth Ashokkumar who plays Sethupathi’s on-screen son.

While addressing everyday realities of transphobia, Shilpa’s arc in Super Deluxe also has its fair share of optimism, thanks to the tumultuous but ultimately tearjerking parent-child bond between Sethupathi and his younger co-star. No wonder that Super Deluxe is considered as one of the best Tamil movies in contemporary times.

Where can you stream Vijay Sethupathi’s filmography?

Netflix and Prime Video have an abundance of Vijay Sethupathi’s most popular credits while others can be found on SUN NXT, Zee5, and Hotstar. 

 

Starting out in a Marathi classic’s Bollywood remake and now collaborating with Telugu star Junior NTR for his upcoming action drama Devara, Jahnvi Kapoor has been finding her space as a mainstream Hindi actress. Here’s a list of all her movies so far, ranked according to their watchability and mentioned along with the streaming services where they are available.

What was Jahnvi Kapoor’s debut movie?

With producer Boney Kapoor as her father and late actress Sridevi as mother, Janhvi Kapoor predictably joined the trade of her parents. While subjected to criticism of being a “nepo baby”, Kapoor has time and again explicitly talked about the privileges that she has had as an actress but how she wishes to give her best to the opportunity that she has been gifted with.

Her commitment to standing out in contemporary Bollywood was evident from her promising screen debut in Dhadak. A remake of the Marathi social drama/romance Sairat (which you can watch on ZEE5), Dhadak cannot match the legacy of its predecessor but it still deserves praise for navigating a particularly tragic love story evoked with ample empathy by Kapoor and her co-star Ishaan Khatter.

Jahnvi Kapoor and South Indian remakes

Dhadak is the first but not the last remake in Kapoor’s career as she went on to dabble in many other remakes from other non-Hindi film industries. Most of these included female-led dramas that allowed Kapoor to step out of mainstream conventions and showcase further intensity. You can watch the best of her acting in the dark comedy of errors Good Luck Jerry (a remake of Nelson’s Tamil-language crime caper Kolamaavu) and the survival thriller Mili (a Mathukutty Xavier-directed remake of his own Malayalam thriller Helen).

Mili, in particular, drew her acclaim even if it failed at the box office. For her performance as a restaurant worker trapped in a storage freezer, Kapoor garnered a Filmfare nomination for Best Actress. 

A Brief Tryst with Horror

Despite contrary belief, Kapoor hasn’t always acted in dramas and romances. While a recent venture like the critically-panned rom-com Bawaal makes for an absurd watch, her experiments with horror are slightly more interesting. A shadow of Mili can be felt in her sophomore feature Ghost Stories. A Netflix anthology film helmed by some of the best modern Bollywood directors, Kapoor featured in Zoya Akhtar’s opening chapter that followed her escaping the clutches of what seems like a haunted house. 

Kapoor later joined Dinesh Vijan’s Horror Comedy Universe playing the titular antiheroine in Roohi. A sequel to Raj and DK’s horror comedy Stree, Roohi featured her as a supernaturally possessed bride. Sharing screen space with character actors like hero Rajkumar Rao and his goofy sidekick Varun Sharma diversified her acting resumé.

Why is Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl Janhvi Kapoor’s best movie?

A biographical account of the titular fighter pilot, Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl addressed the trials and tribulations of women flying officers in the Indian Air Force. While the Netflix release has its fair share of melodramatic emotionality, Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl hits the right notes thanks to Saxena’s committed performance as an inspirational underdog. Complementing her Filmfare-nominated leading turn is the very talented Pankaj Tripathi who plays her on-screen father.

Where can you stream Jahnvi Kapoor’s filmography?

While Gunjan Saxena and Ghost Stories are distributed as Netflix originals, her other films like Roohi and Mili can also be streamed in the same OTT platform. ZEE5 and Prime Video can be other places to watch the rest of her filmography. 

From playing a fresh-faced school student in Student of the Year to showing his dramatic chops as a real-life war veteran in Shershaah, Sidharth Malhotra has come a long way as a Bollywood lead. Here’s a list ranking Malhotra’s best movies along with a handy guide to stream them. 

How Sidharth Malhotra went from assistant director to hero

Despite his humble beginnings from Delhi, Malhotra sought to helm an acting career in Mumbai. A long line of auditions ultimately gave way to an opportunity to assist director Karan Johar in his heartwarming 2010 hit My Name Is Khan. Two years later, Malhotra was ready to make his acting debut as one of the leads in Johar’s romantic comedy Student of the Year. 

Also debuting in this movie were Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan with the three actors forming a dramatic love triangle. Despite some popular songs and a tinge of Johar’s escapist humour, Student of the Year didn’t rely on a strong narrative. But it’s the young trio’s collective charisma that made the movie stand out at the time. 

An ever-reliable rom-com hero

While Student of the Year made him a household name, Malhotra sought to explore more grounded and believable notions of the rom-com genre. So, the flashiness of Karan Johar’s larger-than-life sets eventually gave way to Hasee Toh Phasee, an introspective spin on meet-cute love stories with notable leading turns by Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra.

His subsequent rom-coms couldn’t reach the standard of Hasee Toh Phasee but they continued to show his unconventionally brooding charm. Instead of indulging in any overwhelmingly passionate antics, Malhotra’s romantic heroes are more subtle in their courtships. Some good romances to watch in this case include the time-traveling drama Baar Baar Dekho and the spy comedy A Gentleman. 

Ek Villain, Shershaah and more: More serious territory 

Not the one to contort his face with any cartoonish silliness, Malhotra’s personality was tailor made for serious roles. This side of his acting was evident in Ek Villain, a tragic romance inspired by the violent Korean thriller I Saw The Devil. Malhotra plays a morally grey ruffian who has a change of heart when he crosses paths with Shraddha Kapoor’s heroine. But when his love life is affected by a merciless villain, Malhotra’s character goes through a dark and violent revenge saga. 

An even more nuanced and career-defining performance was that of Indian Army braveheart Vikram Batra in the war biopic Shershaah. Sharing a wholesome romance with co-star-turned-wife Kiara Advani, Malhotra captured the softer side of a wartorn soldier like Batra and then went on to capture the pain of the battleground in the movie’s latter half. With the movie itself picking up the Filmfare for Best Movie, Malhotra also garnered a Best Actor nomination. 

Why is Kapoor & Sons Sidharth Malhotra’s best movie?

While Shershaah is definitely a career best as a solo project, Kapoor & Sons is arguably Malhotra’s best movie overall. Shakun Batra’s tearjerker of a human drama captures the everyday trials and tribulations of a dysfunctional family with Malhotra and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan playing brothers with opposite personalities. As they explore their own passions in life, they must also deal with the breaking marriage of their aging parents (played with exceptional dramatic timing by Rajat Kapoor and Ratna Pathak Shah). A goosebump-inducing third act makes Kapoor & Sons an unforgettable watch, a truly mature drama that graces mainstream Bollywood once in a blue moon. 

Where to stream Sidharth Malhotra’s filmography?

Shershaah is a Prime Video original while Mission Majnu is a Netflix release. Most of his other theatrical credits have also found a home in these two OTT platforms along with Voot and Eros Now. 

 

Kriti Sanon is one of Bollywood’s rising stars who dabbles in unabashedly mainstream projects but also gets to prove her dramatic talents in acclaimed performances like Bareilly Ki Barfi and Mimi. If you were wondering where to stream some of Kriti Sanon’s finest movies, we’ve got you covered with a definitive watchlist. 

Despite a commercially tumultuous 2023 with the failure of her Ramayan adaptation Adipurush, the Filmfare-winning actress has still retained her popularity and will be seen next alongside Shahid Kapoor in the robot rom-com Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.

This is also an interesting year as she completes a decade in Bollywood since her lead actress debut in 2014’s Heropanti. Here’s a closer look at her career so far.

Beginnings in Telugu and Hindi Movies

Growing up in New Delhi in the 1990s, Sanon made her cinematic debut in 2014 with the critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful Telugu action thriller 1: Nenokkadine, opposite Mahesh Babu. Her Bollywood breakthrough came the same year with Sabbir Khan's Heropanti, where she starred opposite Tiger Shroff. The film not only garnered commercial success but also earned Sanon critical acclaim for her performance as Dimpy, a spirited young woman caught in a web of family conflicts and romance.

Post-Heropanti Success

Following the success of Heropanti, Sanon continued to showcase her acting prowess in diverse roles. In 2015, she starred in Rohit Shetty's action-comedy Dilwale, sharing screen space with industry stalwarts such as Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Varun Dhawan. Despite mixed reviews, the film performed well at the box office, further solidifying Kriti's position in Bollywood.

Mimi, Panipat and more: Defined Characters and Performances

In 2017, Sanon demonstrated her versatility by portraying Bitti Mishra, a free-spirited small-town girl in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari's Bareilly Ki Barfi. Her nuanced portrayal earned her widespread acclaim and a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. The film was both a critical and commercial success, cementing Kriti's reputation as a talented performer capable of carrying a film on her shoulders.

Sanon continued to experiment with her roles, starring in diverse genres ranging from romantic comedies to period dramas. In 2019, she portrayed Parvatibai, the wife of Maratha warrior Sadashivrao Bhau, in Ashutosh Gowariker's historical drama Panipat. Despite facing stiff competition at the box office, Sanon's performance received praise for its emotional depth and authenticity.

Mimi was another career highlight in this case with Sanon receiving the National Award and Filmfare for Best Actress. The Netflix comedy found her playing a stage dancer who becomes a surrogate for an American couple and decides to still carry the child even when she gets abandoned by all. The movie reunited her with Luka Chhupi director Laxman Utekar and Bareilly Ki Barfi co-star Pankaj Tripathi.

Mimi’s success proved that Sanon can hold her own ground as the standalone protagonist, without any conventional Bollywood hero. This marked a major shift from her more conventional and hyper-masculine Bollywood debut Heropanti.

In the following year, Sanon also got attached to Dinesh Vijan’s Horror Comedy Universe playing a scientist and werewolf in the 2022 supernatural comedy Bhediya.

Why is Bareilly Ki Barfi Kriti Sanon’s best movie?

Anchored by a talented ensemble of character actors like Rajkumar Rao and Seema Pawha, Bareilly Ki Barfi endures as a delightful small-town romantic comedy. Kriti Sanon plays a free-spirited woman caught in a convoluted (but thankfully not toxic) love triangle. The movie has ample space to not just explore her romantic life but also a heartwarming father-daughter bond brought to life by her and Pankaj Tripathi.

Where can you stream Kriti Sanon’s filmography?

Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5 and Jio Cinema.

Eight-time Filmfare Award winner and one of mainstream Bollywood’s most versatile faces, Vidya Balan has carved a niche for herself in a wide range of roles. If you wish to have a closer look at her career, we’ve got you covered with a guide on the best Vidya Balan movies and where to watch them.

Where can you stream Vidya Balan’s filmography?

If you wish to watch Vidya Balan’s earlier screen credits, Hotstar, Netflix and Prime Video can come to the rescue. Much of her later OTT releases are Prime Video originals such as Sherni, Jalsa, and Neeyat. Occasionally, her other recent works can be found in more niche platforms. For instance, one can stream Balan’s acclaimed short film Natkhat on Voot.

Once you’ve got your Vidya Balan watchlist sorted, have a look at how much the Bollywood actress has evolved.

Early struggles and Parineeta breakout

Success didn’t come easy to Vidya Balan who after a brief role in the ‘90s sitcom Hum Paanch could feature prominently only in music videos of independent acts like the rock-pop group Euphoria and neoclassical artiste Shubha Mudgal. Through her involvement in these videos, she crossed paths with director Pradeep Sarkar who would later cast her as the protagonist in her breakout hit Parineeta. A period romantic drama that earned 13 Filmfare nominations at its time, Parineeta found a much-younger Balan holding her own even in the midst of seasoned actors like Sanjay Dutt and Saif Ali Khan.

Leading lady status and further critical acclaim

Parineeta gave way to many more versatile projects with Balan scoring prominent roles in five movies in 2007 alone. So, while she played a conventional romantic interest in the comedies Heyy Baby and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, she also played a terrifying dissociative identity disorder patient in the horror-comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Character parts in projects like Mani Ratnam’s capitalist drama Guru and the Amitabh Bachchan-led tearjerker Paa bore further testimony to her versatility.

From Ishqiya to Kahaani: Redefining Bollywood Heroines

It was towards the late 2000s when Balan firmly cemented her status as not just a leading lady but the top billing star in many women-led projects, ushering in a new wave for female characters in Bollywood. Cases in point include a gut-wrenching portrayal as a revenge-seeking pregnant woman in the neo-noir Kahaani and a delightfully terrific turn as a morally gray femme fatale in Ishqiya.

Despite her career reaching a slight lull in the mid-2010s, she sprung back to acclaim in the following decade with roles in OTT releases like a morally righteous forest officer in the thriller Sherni and the eponymous mathematician in the biopic Shakuntala Devi. Not afraid of addressing social taboos, Balan also attached herself to well-intentioned projects like Begum Jaan, a period drama focusing on the everyday struggles of sex workers, and Natkhat, a short film addressing domestic violence and sexual abuse from the perspective of a kindergartener.

Why is The Dirty Picture Vidya Balan’s best movie?

Partly inspired by the life of late South Indian erotic actress Silk Smitha, The Dirty Picture subverted the sexualisation of actresses in this revelatory satire set in the sleazy world of ‘80s softcore films. The narrative does bite more than it can chew at times but with a powerhouse lead performance by Vidya Balan as an underdog-turned-starlet, The Dirty Picture’s flaws seem forgivable. Tracing the various ups and downs of an artist puppeteered by a misogynistic industry, Balan captures the nuances of an ill-fated protagonist with equal amounts of sassy raunchiness and an underlying emotionality.

Reality TV star-turned-Bollywood leading man Ayushmann Khurrana has taken on various kinds of roles in some of modern Indian cinema’s most daring and unconventional projects. If you wish to have a look at Khurrana’s diverse film career, we’ve got you covered with a list of his best movies along with a streaming guide on where to watch them.

Where to stream Ayushmann Khurrana’s best movies?

Most of Ayushmann Khurrana’s movies are available on all leading Indian and international streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar, Jio Cinema, and ZEE 5.

Once you’ve got your Ayushman Khurrana watchlist sorted out, have a glimpse at his career so far.

A Startling Debut with Vicky Donor

Hailing from Chandigarh in Punjab, Khurrana made his foray into acting after a successful stint in television and hosting. The winner of the inaugural season of the adventure reality series Roadies and a constant host of India’s Got Talent, Khurrana made his acting debut in Vicky Donor (2012), where he portrayed the role of a sperm donor, instantly set him apart as a daring actor unafraid to challenge societal taboos and norms.

Apart from showcasing his comic timing and dramatic prowess, the movie also allowed him to put his singing abilities on display. His song “Paani Da Rang” continues to be popular to this day with Khurrana performing it live in many concerts. He went on to nurture a musical career alongside his acting with singles like “Mitti Di Khushboo” and “Saadi Galli Aaja”.

Unconventional Romances

The early years of Khurrana's career saw him exploring a wide array of roles, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend humor with poignant storytelling. Films like Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015), where he played a small-town husband struggling with marital issues, and Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017), where he portrayed a naive small-town boy caught in a love triangle, established him as a versatile actor capable of breathing life into diverse characters.

Socially Relevant Roles

Khurrana's penchant for choosing scripts with socially relevant themes became evident with films like Article 15 (2019), where he essayed the role of a principled police officer fighting against caste discrimination, and Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2020), a groundbreaking portrayal of a man dealing with erectile dysfunction. Even when he acts in satires like An Action Hero (2023), he ends up satirising the country’s film industry and media from a socio-political standpoint.

Continued Success With Andhadhun

The actor's ability to seamlessly blend genres and narratives reached new heights with films like Andhadhun (2018), a dark comedy-thriller where he portrayed a visually impaired pianist entangled in a web of deceit and intrigue, earning him widespread acclaim and accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Actor.

Why is Andhadhun Ayushman Khurrana’s best movie?

The Hitchcockian neo-noir Andhahdun brought out career-defining performances from Ayushman Khurrana and his equally talented co-stars Tabu and Radhika Apte, dealing with a pianist embroiled in a criminal conspiracy, Sriram Raghavan’s fast-paced thriller strengthened the experimental potential of mainstream Bollywood and allowed Khurrana to break the typecast of the usually lovable and morally righteous heroes that he was so used to playing before.

Further, Amit Trivedi’s keys-driven score and soundtrack offer some of contemporary Bollywood’s most swoon worthy musical numbers including “Laila Laila” and “Naina Da Kya Kasoor”. Apart from a National Award for his performance as the brooding antihero, Khurrana also secured himself a Filmfare for Best Actor (Critics’ Choice) and paved the way to take on more morally grey characters in future releases like An Action Hero.

Once Bollywood’s go-to hero, Anil Kapoor redefined himself from the 2000s onwards to effortlessly make the shift to supporting roles as well. This versatility with age is evident in some of the best Anil Kapoor movies which we have compiled in this comprehensive list summing up his career.

Where to stream Anil Kapoor’s filmography?

You can watch many of Anil Kapoor’s old and new movies on several OTT platforms like Amazon Prime Video, ZEE5 and Jio Cinema. AK vs AK and Thar were released as Netflix originals while his thriller TV series The Night Manager can be streamed on Hotstar.

Once you’ve sorted out your Anil Kapoor watchlist, have a look at his career from an Indian superhero classic like Mr. India to Danny Boyle’s Oscar-winner Slumdog Millionaire.

Beginnings in 1980s and enduring stardom

Kapoor embarked on his acting odyssey in the late 1970s. Despite lacking any familial connections to the film industry, he possessed an innate flair for performance. Kapoor's debut in Hamare Tumhare (1979) marked the commencement of a career that would redefine Indian cinema.

Throughout the 1980s, Kapoor emerged as a promising talent, renowned for his boyish charm and captivating presence. Films like Woh Saat Din (1983) and Mashaal (1984) showcased his versatility, while Shekhar Kapur’s evergreen sci-fi classic Mr India (1987) immortalized him as the endearing the titular invisibility-powered superhero who faces off against Amrish Puri’s quintessential villain Mogambo.

The 1990s saw Kapoor's ascent to superstardom, with a series of iconic performances that solidified his status as one of Bollywood's leading actors. His portrayal of the ambitious Munna in Parinda (1989) garnered critical acclaim, while Beta (1992) and Tezaab (1988) highlighted his impeccable comedic timing, action star persona, and dancing prowess.

Increased diversity in the 2000s and 2010s

As Kapoor transitioned into the new millennium, he continued to evolve, embracing diverse roles that showcased his acting prowess. From casanova gangster-cum-amateur painter Majnu Bhai in the screwball comedy Welcome to the gritty journalist-turned-chief minister in Nayak: The Real Hero, Kapoor effortlessly traversed through various genres, leaving an enduring impact with each portrayal.

Apart from his involvement in mainstream hits like Race 3 and Animal, Kapoor also tries his hand at experimental efforts like the meta-satire AK vs AK in which he played a fictionalised version of himself fighting a fictionalised version of director Anurag Kashyap. The cop thriller Thar similarly found him playing a more seasoned and realistic policeman as compared to the authority roles he took on earlier.

As Kapoor began aging and witnessing his own children like Sonam Kapoor and Harshavardhan Kapoor take on lead roles, Kapoor also grew content with expressing different shades of fatherhood through his performances. These range from the selfless father of a lesbian woman in Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga to a selfish businessman father in Dil Dhadakne Do to the authoritarian patriarch in the hyper-violent action thriller Animal.

Stepping into Hollywood

Kapoor's venture into international cinema further underscored his global appeal, with standout performances in films like Slumdog Millionaire (2008) and the television series 24 (2010). Apart from playing a charismatic gameshow host in the former and the president of a fictional nation in the latter, Kapoor also had a brief role as an eccentric millionaire in the Tom Cruise-starrer Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol.

Why is Mr. India Anil Kapoor’s best movie?

Capturing the best of Anil Kapoor’s youthful energy in the ‘80s, his natural chemistry with the late Sridevi, and a fresh Indianised take on the sci-fi and fantasy genre, Mr. India remains a timeless cult favourite to watch to this day. While Kapoor offered way more serious performances in later years, it’s Mr India that he seemed to have the most fun with.

The results for the 69th Filmfare Awards have been finally announced, honouring the best of 2023’s Bollywood movies. With hits like Rocky Aur Ranii Ki Prem Kahaani, Animal, and 12th Fail sweeping the awards, we have curated a guide at streaming all the Filmfare winners of this year. Despite most of the winners being theatrical releases, OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hotstar have picked up a vast majority of them for your viewing pleasure. 

Although there’s still time for the Filmfares to be broadcast on Indian television, you can already binge on the best of recent Bollywood, from blood-soaked revenge dramas to inspirational underdog tales to evergreen romantic comedies. 

Where can I watch the Filmfare Awards?

Unlike Hollywood awards like the Oscars and the Golden Globes, the Filmfare Awards are often broadcast a week or two after the actual ceremony. It’s for this reason that even though we have the results, the actual ceremony will be broadcast later on Zee TV on February 18 at 9 pm. Viewers will be able to watch the awards unfurl in the Gujarat capital Gandhinagar this time with actor-singer Ayushman Khurrana, director Karan Johar, and TV personality Manish Paul hosting the night. 

Filmfare Awards 2024: A complete list of winners

• Best Film - 12th Fail
• Best Director - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
• Best Actor - Ranbir Kapoor (Animal)
• Best Actress -  Alia Bhatt (Rocky Aur Ranii Ki Prem Kahaani)
• Best Actress - Critics - Rani Mukerji (Mrs. Chatterjee Vs. Norway) and Shefali Shah (Three Of Us)
• Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Male) - Vicky Kaushal (Dunki)
• Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Female) - Shabana Azmi (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
• Best Lyrics - Amitabh Bhattacharya (Tere Vaaste - Zara Hatke Zara Bachke)
• Best Music Album - Animal (Pritam, Vishal Mishra, Manan Bhardwaj, Shreyas Puranik, Jaani, Bhupinder Babbal, Ashim Kemson, Harshwardhan Rameshwar, Gurinder Seagal)
• Best Playback Singer (Male) - Bhupinder Babbal (Arjan Vailly - Animal)
• Best Playback Singer (Female) - Shilpa Rao (Besharam Rang - Pathaan)
• Best Story - Amit Rai (Omg 2) and Devashish Makhija (Joram)
• Best Screenplay - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
• Best Dialogue - Ishita Moitra (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
• Best Background Score - Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Animal) 
• Best Cinematography - Avinash Arun Dhaware (Three Of Us)
• Best Production Design - Subrata Chakraborty, Amit Ray (Sam Bahadur)
• Best Costume Design - Sachin Lovelekar, Divvya Gambhir, Nidhhi Gambhir (Sam Bahadur)
• Best Sound Design - Kunal Sharma (Sam Bahadur) and Sync Cinema (Animal)
• Best Editing - Jaskunwar Singh Kohli - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
• Best Action - Spiro Razatos, Anl Arasu, Craig Macrae, Yannick Ben, Kecha Khamphakdee, Sunil Rodrigues (Jawan)
• Best VFX - Red Chillies Vfx (Jawan)
• Best Choreographer - Ganesh Acharya (What Jhumka?- Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani ) 
• Best Debut Director - Tarun Dudeja (Dhak Dhak)
• Best Debut (Male) - Aditya Rawal (Faraaz)
• Best Debut (Female) - Alizeh Agnihotri (Farrey)

How can I watch the Filmfare winning movies of 2024?

Most of the Filmfare winners of this year are already available to stream or rent barring perhaps Shah Rukh Khan’s Dunki that can still be watched in some cinemas at the moment. Most of the other movies can be watched on Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, Hotstar and other platforms. Some winners like Three Of Us were already released directly on Netflix instead of going down the theatrical route. Others like Animal and 12th Fail dropped on streaming just a few days before the results.

When it comes to the most talented heroes of contemporary Bollywood, Rajkumar Rao’s name is bound to pop up in the conversation. From socio-political dramas like Newton and Aligarh to rib-tickling comedies like Stree and Bareilly Ki Barfi, we have compiled the definitive list of Rajkumar Rao’s best movies along with a handy guide on streaming them all.

Where to stream Rajkumar Rao’s filmography?

Prime Video, ZEE5, Jio Cinema, Eros Now and many more offer Rajkumar Rao’s best movies to watch. Netflix, in particular, has many original titles starring him with titles like The White Tiger, Monica O My Darling, and the TV series Guns & Gulaabs. As for Rao’s OTT series debut Bose: Dead/Alive, you can stream it on Alt Balaji.

If you wish to watch Rajkumar Rao’s best works in chronological order of his career, here’s a concise look at his humble origins and meteoric rise.

Low-budget cult hits and memorable supporting roles

Initially entering the industry as Rajkumar Yadav, the actor made his presence felt with small but memorable parts in acclaimed dramas like Anurag Kashyap’s crime epic Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2. On the side, he bagged lead roles in low-budget found-footage thrillers like the erotic horror Ragini MMS and the anthology drama Love Sex Aur Dhokha. Both movies turned out to be sleeper hits, bringing Rao some attention.

The actor followed up his act with supporting appearances in acclaimed dramas like the psychological neo-noirs Shaitan and Talaash (playing a policeman in both), and Queen in which he played the condescending boyfriend to Kangana Ranaut’s protagonist.

But while all these roles got him work, it was his heartwarming turn as a maths tuition teacher in the slice-of-life drama Kai Po Che. Sharing impeccable chemistry with the late Sushant Singh Rajput and Amit Sadh, Rao and his co-stars played a trio of friends whose lives are changed forever in the face of growing pains and communal tensions. Rao bagged a Supporting Actor nomination at Filmfare Awards, one of many to come.

Breakout with Hansal Mehta movies

One director that has been crucial to Rao’s rise to fame is definitely Hansal Mehta who first cast him to play assassinated lawyer and human rights activist Shahid Azmi in the hard-hitting biopic Shahid. The film immediately established Rao as a go-to-lead for mature, emotionally conflicting dramas.

Mehta and Rao’s partnership led to other successes like the universally acclaimed gay rights drama Aligarh that starred Manoj Bajpayee as a professor fired for his sexual identity and Rao playing the journalist who helps him get justice. Other quintessential Rao-Mehta collaborations include the terrorism thriller Omerta and the human drama CityLights.

A comedic and romantic revelation

Once Rao had established himself as a dramatic lead, he also found time to display his awkward sense of humour. With an unpredictable comic timing, deadpan dialogue delivery, and an overall sense of naivety, Rao played lovable and gullible characters in Bareilly Ki Barfi, Fanney Khan, Stree, and many other comedies. Conversely, he could have a devious side in the genre too as is evident from his morally ambiguous underdog characters in the Netflix originals Monica O My Darling and Guns & Gulaabs.

Why is Newton Rajkumar Rao’s best movie?

Newton is an eye-opening satire on Indian democracy, observed from the perspective of the titular election official. Offering career-defining performances by Rao as the idealistic Newton and Pankaj Tripathi as a cynical paramilitary officer, the comedy finds the duo clashing with their ideas as they seek to conduct elections in a politically turbulent region of the country. The end result is a partly-hilarious, party-frightening look into the current state of Indian bureaucracy that only ages better with time. Rao has never seemed this earnest and genuine in a performance before even if his entire career boasts of earnest and genuine performances.

Vicky Kaushal is one of Bollywood’s rising stars, having emerged as a household name since the mid-2010s. If you wish to watch Kaushal’s versatile filmography, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive watchlist of his movies so far. But before we get into the nitty gritty of the Masaan and Sanju actor’s film graph, let’s have a look at the streaming options. 

Where to stream Vicky Kaushal’s filmography?

Most of Vicky Kaushal’s theatrical releases found their way onto Indian streaming platforms like ZEE5, Jio Cinema, and Eros Now. Additionally, he has also acted in the Netflix original movies Love Per Square Foot and Lust Stories. His period biopic Sardar Udham was meant for a theatrical release but owing to the pandemic, the movie was directly made available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

Once you’ve got your Vicky Kaushal binge sorted out, here’s a glimpse at his career so far.

From Humble Beginnings to Cannes Breakout

While his father Sham Kaushal worked as an action director in Bollywood, Kaushal wasn’t exactly a nepo-kid in the industry. After years of odd jobs with theatre groups and acting auditions, Kaushal’s luck started turning in his favour when he got a chance to assist Anurag Kashyap on his two-part gangster epic Gangs of Wasseypur.

The assistant director stint helped in establishing a crucial bond with Kashyap who later cast him in small roles in his comedy production Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana and his own gangster drama Bombay Velvet. However, it was in 2015’s Masaan that Kaushal got his first lead role. Starring alongside talented character actors like Richa Chaddha, Shweta Tripathi, and Pankaj Tripathi, Kaushal shone in the movie as a mild-mannered corpse cremator.

Launching the career of both Kaushal and his director Neeraj Ghawyan, the movie was lauded internationally, winning two awards at the 2015 edition of Cannes.

Balancing Commercial Hero Status and Supporting Roles

Since Masaan, Kaushal has gone on to hone his craft in both commercial and relatively niche projects. So, while he collaborated with Kashyap again to play a cocaine-sniffing corrupt cop in the neo-noir Raman Raghav 2.0, he also played a lovable IT engineer in the Netflix rom-com Love Per Square Foot.

But even while getting top billing in blockbusters like the military actioner Uri: The Surgical Strike and the biopic Sardar Udham (in which he played the anti-imperialist freedom fighter Udham Singh), Kaushal took on supporting parts with equal fervour. In fact, some of his best performances have come out of side roles.

Prominent examples include Sanju in which he played a controversial actor’s best friend, and Raazi that found him playing a Pakistani military official alongside Alia Bhatt’s Indian secret agent heroine. Sanju marked his first Filmfare win for Best Supporting Actor.

His friendships with Bollywood’s leading directors are evident in recurring collaborations. Apart from appearing in four Anurag Kashyap movies, he reunited with Sanju director Rajkumar Hirani for the immigrant comedy Dunki while also playing the titular military general in Raazi director Meghna Gulzar’s biographical drama Sam Bahadur.

Why is Masaan Vicky Kaushal’s best movie?

Ever since it premiered at Cannes, Masaan made it clear that it would go down as a cult classic for contemporary Bollywood audiences. But if you watch it over and over, it’s easy to see that Vicky Kaushal’s gut-wrenching performance is one of the reasons for its legacy. The film features a much-younger Kaushal giving his all as he plays a dreamy-eyed boy who wishes to free himself from the shackles of casteism that his family faces. A wholesome romance accompanied by a heartbreaking twist brings out such raw outbursts from Kaushal that it’s hard to not reach for the tissues when he sobs.

After brief parts in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi films, Radhika Apte broke out as a prominent face in Bollywood and Hindi TV with hits like Sacred Games and Andhadhun to her name. Her multi-genre filmography across cinema and the OTT space is lined out in this definitive list of the best Radhika Apte movies and shows.

Where to watch Radhika Apte’s filmography?

Ever since Netflix India started rolling out originals with Sacred Games, Radhika Apte has had influential roles in many of the streaming service’s productions. Apart from her involvement in Netflix originals, most of her other theatrical releases can now be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, ZEE5 and others. Occasionally, her involvement in shows can also extend to Prime and Hotstar originals.

Once you’ve got your Radhika Apte watchlist ready to stream, also have a look at her stellar rise from a background actor to a top billing star.

Early credits with minor roles

Despite a background in performing arts like theatre and dance, Radhika Apte did struggle for years before making it big in Bollywood and Indian arthouse cinema. Apte’s film debut was a blink-and-miss appearance in the Shahid Kapoor-led fantasy comedy Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi. A few more minor roles later, her theatrical energy caught actor Rohit Bose’s attention who helped in casting her in the Bangla drama Antaheen.

But despite Antaheen’s critical acclaim, Apte’s struggles weren’t over yet.

Slow rise with supporting roles

While Apte didn’t make a household name after her Bengali debut, Antaheen was followed by better supporting roles in projects like Ram Gopal Varma’s multi-lingual crime drama Rakht Charitra in which she played the gangster protagonist’s romantic interest. Despite her role being crucial to the movie, Apte still felt exploited considering she wasn’t paid much while shooting in Tamil and Telugu (as she told Grazia magazine in 2021).

Future character roles in ensemble dramas like Shor In The City and I Am were notable credentials in her career but again, Apte couldn’t carve a niche in the industry yet.

OTT domination and memorable lead roles

2015 was when Apte’s luck began to go in her favour, thanks to her limited but notable appearances in critically lauded movies like the revenge drama Badlapur, the sex comedy Hunterrr, and the biopic Manjhi: The Mountain Man. In the very next year, Apte held her own getting top billing in the gender drama Parched and the psychological horror Phobia.

While these projects began establishing Apte’s supremacy among niche circles, her ever-growing involvement with OTT platforms established her as a mainstream star in her own right. It all started with Netflix’s first Indian original Sacred Games in which she played a cop tailing a criminal nexus.

She followed this act with more OTT releases like the horror miniseries Ghoul, the sci-fi comedy OK Computer , and the neo-noir Monica O My Darling. All of the aforementioned titles found her excelling as authority figures like policewomen, military operatives, and private investigators. No longer was Apte forced to stick to one-dimensional female roles.

Occasionally, she even ventures overseas with international projects like A Call To Spy and The Wedding Guest.

Why is Parched Radhika Apte’s best movie?

While Radhika Apte’s career has mostly been full of highs, Parched marked a new chapter in her diverse career. Sharing heartwarming chemistry with co-stars like Tannishtha Chatterjee and Suvreen Chawla, Apte brought life to an otherwise harrowing reality. The gritty human drama dealt with the lives of four rural women repressed into a conservative life until they decide to reclaim their freedom and rediscover their sexuality. Unabashedly bold and still socially relevant, Parched is an often overlooked but excellent display of Apte’s dramatic prowess.