Top Indian Films Of 2016: A Must-Watch List

Hey movie buffs! Let's rewind to 2016, a year that gifted us some truly phenomenal Indian cinema. From Bollywood blockbusters to regional gems, 2016 was a year of diverse stories, stellar performances, and groundbreaking filmmaking. So, grab your popcorn, and let's dive into the best Indian movies of 2016! We're talking about films that not only entertained us but also left a lasting impact. Get ready to revisit some old favorites and maybe discover a few hidden treasures you might have missed.

Bollywood's Biggest Hits of 2016

Dangal: A Champion's Story

Dangal, the sports biopic, undoubtedly takes the crown for one of the best Indian movies of 2016. It's a cinematic masterpiece that is an absolute must-watch! This film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, isn't just a movie; it's an emotion. It tells the inspiring true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat, to become world-class wrestlers. Aamir Khan's portrayal of Mahavir is nothing short of phenomenal. His dedication to the role, from the physical transformation to the emotional depth, is a testament to his acting prowess. The film beautifully captures the struggles, the triumphs, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughters. Dangal is a powerful narrative about breaking societal norms, chasing dreams, and the pursuit of excellence. The performances by the young actresses portraying Geeta and Babita are equally impressive, making the entire cast unforgettable. The movie’s success wasn’t just in India; it became a global phenomenon, winning hearts and breaking box office records worldwide. The film’s success can be credited to its compelling narrative, strong performances, and the universal themes of perseverance and family. It’s a film that resonates with everyone, regardless of their background or culture. Dangal is not just a sports movie; it’s a story about empowerment, resilience, and the power of believing in your dreams. The technical aspects of the film, including the cinematography and the music, further enhance the viewing experience. Every scene is crafted with precision, and the music complements the narrative perfectly, amplifying the emotional impact of the movie. Guys, if you haven’t seen Dangal, do yourself a favor and watch it. It's a cinematic experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The film's influence extended beyond the screen, inspiring many young girls to take up wrestling and other sports, truly embodying its message of empowerment. This is the best Indian movies of 2016.

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil: Love, Loss, and Yearning

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, directed by Karan Johar, offered a fresh perspective on love, heartbreak, and the complexities of relationships. This romantic drama, with its star-studded cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, captured the essence of modern love and the various stages of a romantic relationship, from intense passion to unrequited love. The film’s music, composed by Pritam, became an instant hit, with every song perfectly complementing the narrative and enhancing the emotional impact of the scenes. The performances by the lead actors were critically acclaimed, with Ranbir Kapoor delivering a nuanced performance, portraying the different facets of his character’s journey through love and loss. Anushka Sharma’s portrayal of a free-spirited woman was equally impressive, and her chemistry with Ranbir was undeniable. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's role was a sophisticated touch that added depth and a touch of elegance to the story. The film's cinematography was visually stunning, with picturesque locales enhancing the romantic feel of the movie. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is not just a romantic movie; it's a story about self-discovery, embracing life's challenges, and finding solace in unexpected places. The movie’s success can be credited to its compelling storyline, stellar performances, and a musical score that resonated with the audience. The film’s exploration of complex emotions and relationships makes it a memorable watch. It's a reminder that love can be found in different forms, and heartbreak is a part of life. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is definitely one of the best Indian movies of 2016.

Sultan: A Wrestler's Comeback

Sultan, starring Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma, is an action-packed sports drama that left a lasting impact on audiences. This movie, which falls under the list of the best Indian movies of 2016, is a compelling narrative of a wrestler's journey through trials and triumphs, providing a rollercoaster of emotions. Salman Khan's portrayal of Sultan, a wrestler aiming for glory, was a significant draw for the audience. The physicality he brought to the role, along with the emotional depth, made his performance memorable. Anushka Sharma's role as Aarfa, a female wrestler, added a dynamic layer to the story, showing strength, determination, and independence. The film's direction, led by Ali Abbas Zafar, highlighted the intensity of the wrestling matches and the emotional ups and downs of the characters. Sultan’s success was largely due to its exciting storyline, strong performances by the lead actors, and a high level of production value. The film's soundtrack also gained popularity, with songs that added value to the narrative and amplified the emotional impact of the scenes. This film is more than just a sports movie; it’s a tale about redemption, the importance of family, and never giving up on your dreams, even when faced with adversity. The visual presentation of the wrestling scenes was very impressive, making the fights look as realistic as possible. Sultan is a movie that's sure to keep you engaged from beginning to end, with a storyline that resonates with a broad audience. It's a perfect blend of action, drama, and emotion, which makes it a must-watch film. The film is a fine example of how a well-structured story, combined with powerful acting, can deliver a compelling cinematic experience, making it one of the best Indian movies of 2016.

Regional Cinema Highlights of 2016

24: A Tamil Science Fiction Thriller

24, directed by Vikram Kumar, is a Tamil science fiction thriller that took the audience by storm. This innovative movie, which is included in the list of the best Indian movies of 2016, combined elements of action, romance, and time travel, and was a groundbreaking achievement in the Indian film industry. Suriya's outstanding performance, where he played three different roles, was a major highlight. His ability to embody each character distinctively was a testament to his acting skills and versatility. The film's visual effects were of the highest quality, marking a significant advancement in Indian cinema's technological capabilities. The storyline, which revolves around a time-travel watch and the conflicts it brings, was both compelling and intricately woven. The narrative was unique and engaging, and it kept the audience captivated throughout the film. 24 wasn’t just a Tamil film; it was a pan-Indian success, appreciated by audiences and critics alike. The movie’s success can be credited to its innovative storyline, strong performances, and high production value. The movie challenged conventional filmmaking norms, providing a fresh perspective to the sci-fi genre. The film's ability to blend different elements into a cohesive narrative makes it a must-watch experience. 24 is a movie that redefined the limits of Indian cinema, making it a valuable addition to the best Indian movies of 2016.

Udta Punjab: A Bold and Hard-Hitting Drama

Udta Punjab, directed by Abhishek Chaubey, is a hard-hitting drama focusing on the drug menace in the state of Punjab. This film, definitely on the best Indian movies of 2016 list, bravely tackled a sensitive and pressing social issue, drawing both praise and controversy. The film featured a star-studded cast, including Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh, all of whom delivered compelling performances. The narrative portrayed the lives of those affected by drug abuse, offering a raw and unflinching look at their struggles. The movie's authenticity and its willingness to address a social problem was well-received by the critics. Udta Punjab gained attention for its bold portrayal of a harsh reality. The movie’s success was a result of its strong performances, powerful storytelling, and its ability to spark public discourse about drug abuse. The film’s ability to initiate important conversations about crucial social problems demonstrates its cultural significance. The movie’s visual presentation, along with its gritty realism, enhanced the audience’s emotional engagement. Udta Punjab is a must-watch film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The film's influence extended beyond the screen, inspiring others to speak out against drug abuse, adding to its influence. This made the movie one of the best Indian movies of 2016.

Sairat: A Marathi Romantic Drama

Sairat, directed by Nagraj Manjule, is a Marathi romantic drama that quickly rose to prominence. This film, also on the list of the best Indian movies of 2016, is a poignant exploration of love, caste, and social injustice, and it moved audiences nationwide. The movie’s narrative is both universal and culturally specific, touching on themes that resonate with diverse audiences. The actors, especially the newcomers Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar, delivered remarkable performances, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to their roles. The film’s music, composed by Ajay-Atul, became incredibly popular, enhancing the impact of crucial scenes and adding to the overall cinematic experience. Sairat became a commercial success, gaining both critical acclaim and public appreciation. The movie's success was because of its impactful story, strong performances, and the realistic portrayal of social issues. The movie gained praise for its bold narrative, which tackled societal norms and promoted important discussions. Sairat is a film that will leave a lasting impression, making it a great addition to the best Indian movies of 2016.

Conclusion: A Year of Cinematic Excellence

2016 was truly a remarkable year for Indian cinema, delivering a diverse range of films that captivated audiences across the globe. From Bollywood blockbusters like Dangal and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil to regional gems like 24 and Sairat, the year presented a rich tapestry of stories, performances, and filmmaking techniques. Each film, in its own way, pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and offered fresh perspectives on life, love, and society. The best Indian movies of 2016 showcased the immense talent and creativity within the Indian film industry, leaving a legacy of cinematic excellence that continues to inspire and entertain. These films, with their diverse themes, engaging narratives, and powerful performances, offered something for everyone, making 2016 a memorable year for Indian cinema. So, if you're looking for some great movies to watch, revisit these cinematic treasures from 2016, and prepare to be entertained, moved, and inspired. Happy watching, everyone!