Looking back at the cinematic activities of 2024 as the year comes to an end, it is nothing less than a rollercoaster ride to say the least. Watching movies in a variety of languages have only increased my respect for Indian movies even more. This is a list that encompasses a wide range of mainstream hits experienced in cinemas nationwide, as well as subtle narratives that were captured beautifully and were somewhat overlooked, that are all worth mentioning. This is my list of the Top 10 Best Indian Movies of 2024 in no particular order, encompassing my favorite genres, regions and emotions.
10. Mamal Boys
Director: [Name Not Provided]
An emotional tribute to friendship and endurance, Mamal Boys becomes the carefree road trip movie and in no time, a chilling survival horror fiction. This movie has Tamil film culture at the center of every scene as the friends assemble in the face of an impossible mission which is to rescue Subash. The most unsettling emotional resolution of this film achieves indeed a heartwarming reunion between a mother and son. This is definitely one of the highlights of the year in cinema.
9. Lucky Basar
Director: Beni Atluri
Dulquer Salmaan plays the leading role in this comedy crime drama which showcases the storytelling of an ordinary man’s struggle when he goes bad, but this particular plot is infused with humor and charm. One of the highlights is how Dulquer portrays Basar, a lowly bank employee who escapes his banal existence to become a master in a sophisticated money laundering operation. With style and mischief and a shrewd grin, the audience can’t help but rove along with Dulquer as he plays the various turns in the spectacular drama.
8. The Goat Life (Aru Jam)
Director: Pitaj [Name Not Provided]
This Malayalam film, which is inspired by a true story is an enthralling saga of human endurance. It is distinguished by exceptional cinematography and a powerful storyline about how a man comes to regard himself as the herd of cattle he tends to. Lead actor Pitaj is impressive in his unnervingly committed role that includes his own physical alteration. Several, including myself, thought this ought to have been India’s Oscar submission.
7. All We Imagine as Light
Director: P. Kardia
This drama, albeit understated, delves into the life of every woman whose life revolves around the Maharashtara’s capital, Mumbai. Mumbai is portrayed both as a character and the antagonist. With the feeling of survival, loss of human life’s permanence and the alienating nature of urban cities as the central focal concern, the film perhaps depicts the struggle of the human being to be resilient physically and spiritually. The film is rather impressive due its unique and undefined storyline and perspective, however, the lack of more wide and international release only lets a small number of people view it. Its interesting features such as the color composition and reflection centered storytelling approach gives the deepest impression.
6. Mian
Director: Mardigan [Name Not Provided]
Mian tells the story of reconciliation but rather with oneself and the past in this Tamil family reunion perspective. Arul who has been gone for 22 years finally comes home and as expected his home comes with equal measures of happiness and sadness. The film excellently displays family ties, their love and also how some things are regretted and this becomes a common experience for all those who would sit back and think about relationships, and time lost.
5. Kishkinda Kadam
Director: [Name Not Provided]
This slow-burn thriller about a newly married couple unraveling dark family secrets keeps you guessing till the very end. Asif Ali’s moving portrayal of a man burdened by his family’s hidden past adds emotional depth to this gripping tale. With its meticulous screenplay and haunting revelations, Kishkinda Kadam stands as a triumph of storytelling and suspense.
4. Braham
Director: Rahul Sadasivan
In this gothic horror film, Mammootty arguably delivers one of the very frigid performances of his career. Much like Bram stoker’s classic tales of darkness, the film investigates power, greed, and moral corruption. Coupled with frightening atmospheres, unsettling yet beautiful music composed by Christo Xavier, and Mammootty’s unhinged evil performance, Braham drastically alters the definition of Indian Horror and raises the bar for it.
3. Chamkila
Director: Imtiaz Ali
Imtiaz Ali’s Chamkila is a poignant musical tragedy that chronicles the rise and untimely fall of iconic Punjabi singer Amar Singh Chamkila. Diljit Dosanjh embodies Chamkila with unmatched sincerity, supported by Parineeti Chopra’s earnest performance. The film’s soulful music and innovative screenplay elevate it as a standout in Imtiaz’s filmography and a touching ode to a misunderstood artist.
2. Maharaja
Director: [Name Not Provided]
This Tamil thriller is a masterclass in storytelling, delivering one surprise after another. Vijay Sethupathi shines as a lead in this intricately woven narrative about justice, corruption, and resilience. From its seemingly simple premise to its jaw-dropping revelations, Maharaja keeps viewers enthralled, making it one of the year’s most rewarding cinematic experiences.
1. Aam
Director: Jithu Madan
Aam, at the simplest of definitions, is a gangster’s muffler full of laughter, love and bone-breaking action. Fahadh Faasil stars as a cool-headed gangster-“Ranga” and it has to be said that it is probably the most defining role in his career so far. Its non-stop action packed entertainments and sentiments of family and friends scenes are truly chaotic yet balanced. With a great score by Suan Sham and an engaging story, Aam creates a lasting impression as the best film of the year 2024.