Top Indian Movies Of 2016: A Must-Watch List
Hey guys! Ready to dive into some amazing cinema? Let’s rewind to 2016 and explore some of the best Indian movies that hit the screens. 2016 was a fantastic year for Indian cinema, showcasing a diverse range of stories, stellar performances, and groundbreaking direction. From Bollywood blockbusters to regional gems, there was something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!
Bollywood Blockbusters of 2016
When we talk about the best Indian movies of 2016, we can't miss the Bollywood hits that dominated the box office and captured the hearts of millions. These movies weren't just entertainment; they were cultural phenomena that sparked conversations and set new benchmarks for the industry. Let’s delve into some of the most memorable ones.
Dangal
Dangal is definitely one of the best Indian movies of 2016. This biographical sports drama, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, tells the inspiring story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari to become world-class wrestlers. Aamir Khan's portrayal of Mahavir Singh was nothing short of phenomenal, showcasing his dedication and transformation for the role. The movie beautifully captures the struggles, triumphs, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughters. Its empowering message and realistic portrayal of wrestling made it a critical and commercial success. The film's music, composed by Pritam, added another layer of emotional depth, with songs like "Haanikaarak Bapu" and "Dangal" becoming anthems. Dangal's success wasn't limited to India; it also resonated with international audiences, particularly in China, where it became one of the highest-grossing Indian films ever. This movie is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universality of human emotions.
Sultan
Another significant entry in the list of the best Indian movies of 2016 is Sultan. Starring Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma, this sports drama revolves around Sultan Ali Khan, a wrestler who faces numerous personal and professional challenges. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the film showcases Sultan's journey of redemption as he battles to regain his former glory. Salman Khan's transformation and his on-screen chemistry with Anushka Sharma were major highlights. The film's high-octane wrestling sequences and emotional narrative struck a chord with audiences, making it a box office sensation. The soundtrack, composed by Vishal-Shekhar, featured chartbusters like "Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai" and "Jag Ghoomeya," which further amplified the film's popularity. Sultan's blend of sports action, romance, and drama solidified its place as one of the year's biggest hits. It's a classic tale of perseverance and the will to overcome adversity, packaged in a thoroughly entertaining format.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, directed by Karan Johar, is a romantic drama that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and heartbreak. The film features an ensemble cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The story revolves around Ayan, a young man who falls in love with Alizeh, but their relationship remains platonic. The film delves into the themes of unrequited love and the different forms that love can take. Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma's performances were widely praised, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's presence added a touch of elegance and maturity to the narrative. The film's music, composed by Pritam, was a massive hit, with songs like the title track "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" and "Channa Mereya" becoming instant classics. Though the film faced some controversies before its release, it ultimately emerged as a commercial success and a memorable addition to Karan Johar's filmography. Its exploration of modern relationships and emotional depth makes it a significant entry among the best Indian movies of 2016.
Regional Cinema Gems of 2016
While Bollywood often takes the spotlight, the best Indian movies of 2016 also included some incredible regional films that deserve equal attention. These films brought fresh perspectives, unique storytelling techniques, and powerful performances to the forefront. Let's explore some of these gems.
Sairat (Marathi)
Sairat, a Marathi-language romantic tragedy directed by Nagraj Manjule, is a film that broke barriers and redefined regional cinema. The story revolves around Parshya, a lower-caste boy, and Archi, a wealthy girl, who fall in love, challenging the rigid social norms of their village. The film's raw and realistic portrayal of caste-based discrimination and honor killings struck a chord with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success. Rinku Rajguru, who played Archi, delivered a stellar performance that earned her widespread acclaim. The film's music, composed by Ajay-Atul, was equally captivating, with songs like "Zingaat" becoming a nationwide sensation. Sairat's success transcended regional boundaries, sparking discussions about social issues and the power of cinema to bring about change. It stands out as one of the best Indian movies of 2016 for its bold storytelling and impactful message. Its influence on Indian cinema is undeniable, paving the way for more regional films to gain national recognition.
Theri (Tamil)
Theri, a Tamil action thriller directed by Atlee, features Vijay in the lead role as a police officer seeking revenge for the death of his wife. The film is a gripping tale of love, loss, and retribution, packed with high-octane action sequences and emotional moments. Vijay's performance was highly praised, and the film's engaging storyline kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Amy Jackson also delivered strong performances, adding depth to the narrative. The film's music, composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, was a major hit, with songs like "Jithu Jilladi" becoming popular anthems. Theri's commercial success and its blend of action and emotion solidified its place as one of the best Indian movies of 2016 in Tamil cinema. It’s a perfect example of how commercial cinema can also deliver a compelling and emotionally resonant story.
Janatha Garage (Telugu)
Janatha Garage, a Telugu action drama directed by Koratala Siva, stars Jr. NTR and Mohanlal in lead roles. The film revolves around Anand, an environmental activist, and Sathyam, a garage owner who helps people in need. The story explores themes of social responsibility and environmental conservation. Jr. NTR's powerful performance and his chemistry with Mohanlal were major highlights. The film's action sequences and its message of environmental awareness resonated with audiences, making it a commercial success. The soundtrack, composed by Devi Sri Prasad, featured popular songs like "Pakka Local" and "Jai Janatha." Janatha Garage's blend of action, drama, and social commentary makes it a noteworthy addition to the list of the best Indian movies of 2016. It showcases how mainstream cinema can address important social issues while still entertaining the audience.
Performances That Stood Out
The best Indian movies of 2016 were not just about great stories; they were also about phenomenal performances that brought those stories to life. Here are some actors who delivered unforgettable performances that year.
Aamir Khan in Dangal
Aamir Khan's portrayal of Mahavir Singh Phogat in Dangal was a masterclass in acting. His physical transformation, his nuanced portrayal of a determined father, and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions made his performance truly exceptional. He not only bulked up to play the older version of the character but also lost weight to portray the younger version, showcasing his dedication to the role. Aamir Khan's performance was the heart and soul of Dangal, making it one of the most memorable performances in Indian cinema history.
Salman Khan in Sultan
Salman Khan's performance in Sultan was a departure from his usual action-oriented roles. He convincingly portrayed the character of Sultan Ali Khan, a wrestler who faces personal and professional challenges. His physical transformation and his emotional portrayal of Sultan's struggles were highly praised. Salman Khan's ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level made his performance truly special, cementing his status as a versatile actor.
Rinku Rajguru in Sairat
Rinku Rajguru's debut performance in Sairat was nothing short of sensational. She portrayed the character of Archi with remarkable confidence and authenticity, capturing the spirit of a young woman who dares to defy social norms. Her raw and natural performance resonated with audiences, making her an overnight sensation. Rinku Rajguru's performance was a major reason for Sairat's success, proving that talent knows no age or experience.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! The best Indian movies of 2016 offered a diverse range of stories, memorable performances, and groundbreaking direction. From Bollywood blockbusters like Dangal and Sultan to regional gems like Sairat and Theri, 2016 was a year of cinematic excellence. These films not only entertained us but also sparked conversations, challenged social norms, and left a lasting impact on Indian cinema. If you haven't watched these movies yet, now is the perfect time to add them to your watchlist. Happy watching!