When the term “Bollywood” comes up, it often conjures images of love stories or overly dramatic storylines, and this is to a large extent what the Hindu film industry is known for. Yet, beyond the prevalent themes of love, Bollywood cinema features the most intriguing and intricately woven tales that encompass various genres. Although its popularity has experienced some fluctuations in recent years, Bollywood remains one of the largest film industries in the world. For fans who love their rich cultural displays, great storylines, extremely attractive cast, soul-stirring music and more, Prime Video offers a fascinating array of films to explore.
This compilation consists of old and timeless films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, often regarded as one of the greatest Indian films and contemporary releases like Jailer and Bawaal.Pathaan is also among the latest and most outstanding Hindi films of 2023, starring the beloved Shah Rukh Khan. There other exceptional films like Section 365, Newton, and 3 Idiots. Whether you seek classic Indian films for a nostalgic journey, psychological thrillers, horror or action thrillers with quintessential Bollywood flair, you will find the best Bollywood movies available on Prime Video here.
15 Pathaan (2023)
For the best Bollywood movies on Prime Video, start with one of the year’s biggest hits: Pathaan. Shah Rukh Khan makes a mind-blowing comeback as the titular character, and Deepika Padukone joins him to make this yet another amazing film with the duo. Salman Khan also makes an appearance. However, the true standout, despite having less screen time as Shah Rukh Khan, is John Abraham. He plays the villain Jim convincingly well.
This heart-pounding Indian action film follows Pathaan, an Indian agent who uncovers an impending attack on Indian by a mercenary group led by the ruthless Jim. With doomsday approaching, Pathaan must join forces with his ally, Agent Rubai, to stop this destruction and confront Jim. While the film received mixed reaction, it offers plenty of action sequences to keep many entertained, even with the heavy use of CGI.
14 Bawaal (2023)
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Bawaal presents an Indian love story that aims to defy conventions. It stars Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor as Nisha and Ajay, a troubled couple residing in a small village. When things go awry in their lives, the couple decides to travel to Europe to explore war-torn countries. It is within these countries that they learn great lessons that significantly impact their lives and marriage.
Bawaal’s most outstanding aspects is its compelling story, which juxtaposes tragedy of the Holocaust with a troubled marriage to tell a deep and unique story. At its core, the film features a touching love story and evokes intense emotions, as is customary with Bollywood films. While some have applauded its unique approach to storytelling, others have heavily criticized it for downplaying the significance of World War II.
13 Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
Every avid Bollywood fan should be well-acquainted with one of the greatest Indian love stories ever made: Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Well, this is a remainder to revisit this gem on Prime Video to witness Kajol, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Hirithik Roshan, and other talented actors in one of their finest roles.
For those who are unfamiliar with the storyline or may have forgotten, it is essentially a story about family values, parental love and social class differences. The plot follows as deep sadness befalls upon a family when an adopted son is disowned by his strict father for marrying a woman from a lower social class. Karan Johar’s classic masterpiece is one of the most grandiose and emotionally resonant Indian films ever made. And, of course, it features a plethora of catchy songs that will linger in your memory long after viewing.
12 Don (2006)
Don is yet another intense film where Shah Rukh Khan blows the minds of fans with his impressive performance. It’s no surprise that he’s recognized as one of the greatest Indian actors of all time. In this intriguing crime thriller, he plays Vijay a look-alike of the leader of an international gang of smugglers who is pursued by a police officer. However, when things awry and the police officer is killed, Vijay is left to fend for himself.
Despite being a remake of the original Don from 1978, starring Amitabh Bachchan in the titular role, this one succeeds in becoming an equally brilliant film, establishing Khan as the perfect Don of a new era. Priyanka Chopra also dazzles in every scene. Director Farahan Akhtar deserves accolades for creating a James Bond-style film, a feat that continues to receive praises even today.
11 Ghajini (2008)
Ghajini is without a doubt one of the best in Aamir Khan’s filmography. It was one of the highest-grossing Bollywood film in 2008 before being dethroned by another Khan’s movie, 3 idiots. Ghajini draws inspiration from the Hollywood cult blockbuster Memento to create a Bollywood masterpiece. It relies on vibrant cinematography, over-the-top action sequence,s and outstanding performances from Khan and Asin to tell the story of a man with a short-term memory trying to find his lover’s murderer.
To recollect events, he must resort to using photographs and words inscribed all over his body. While laden with suspense and other psycho-thrilling elements, this film also infuses musical-comedy romance, which is common in Bollywood films. This does however take away the fact that it is completely entertaining from start to finish, and keeps many invested despite being three hours long.
10 Notebook (2019)
Love can be found in the most unexpected places, at least that’s the sentiment Notebook aims to instill in the hearts of viewers. Directed by Nitin Kahkar, this love story is an adaptation of the Thai drama The Teachers Diary, and it follows the story of a former soldier who takes up a teaching job in a remote school. He finds a notebook left behind by the former teacher and through the words on the notebook he begins to fall in love with a woman he has never met before.
The storyline may appear simple, but once viewers begin to watch this, a beautiful feeling settles in the heart, driving many to yearn for a place among these lovely characters and their simple lives. For die-hard fans of romantic dramas with picturesque locations, Notebook is a must-watch.
9 Newton (2017)
Newton is a satirical black comedy about the difficulties of conducting free and fair elections in a remote and conflict-ridden area in India. Rajkummar Rao takes on the role of the sincere and idealistic government clerk sent on election duty to this rural area. His mission becomes one riddled with challenges and his principles are put to test.
The film received critical acclaim for its sharp writing, strong performances and impactful storytelling. It even earned the prestigious honor of being Indian’s official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards, although it did not make to the final stage. This in no way diminishes its brilliance or changes the fact that it is one of the best political satires in Indian cinema. Rao plays Newton commendably well, with a mixture of innocence and complexity.
8 3 Idiots (2009)
This list would rather be incomplete without mentioning one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time: 3 Idiots, a cinematic masterpiece that not only thrilled the Indian audiences, but also earned global acclaim. Rajkumar Hamil’s film boasts numerous awards and nominations, a testament to its brilliance. Flashing back and forth between the present day and the past, this film follows close friends who embark on a journey to find their lost buddy.
Their nostalgic journey reveals a lot about their high-school life, their free-thinker friend Rancho and how he changed their lives despite the rest of the world seeing them as idiots. There’s a mixture of poignant moments, humorous scenes and some singing and dancing, that makes this truly entertaining. Yet, what elevates it to the status of a true masterpiece is its inspirational message and original story.
7 Ponniyin Selvan: I (2022)
This is the first part of the historical action drama directed by Mani Ratnam, based on the Kalki Krishanamurthy’s 1955 series of the same name. There have been series of attempts to adapt this rich historical novel to cinema, but none has become as successful as this film. The cast includes Rai Bacchchan, Jayam Ravi, Trisha, Karythi, and others. It comprises two parts, with the second released in April 2023 to conclude the story.
With a run-time of 167 minutes, Ponniyin Selvan: I tells the story of the conspiracies and power struggles during the Chola rule between 900 and 950 AD. While this has achieved commercial success, some argue that it is not a faithful depiction of the book or the true history of the Chola Kings. However, for those who can look beyond these discrepancies, this offers a magical experience and a visual treat.
6 Jailer (2023)
The 2023 comedy action film, Jailer, is among the highest grossing Bollywood films of the year. It centers on retired jailer, Tiger Muthuvel, who leads an ordinary family life until his son, a diligent cop investigates an idol smuggling mafia. This forces Muthuvel to take a step back into the dark world of his past.
With the visceral scenes, a strong plot, and Rajinikanth’s mind-blowing performance, director Nelson Dilipkumar manages to create one of the most stylish Bollywood blockbusters with his distinctive flair and dark humor. While it may not be all that awesome to some who are used to Dipilkumar’s less impressive films, fans of Rajinikanth and action films are in for an exhilarating experience. Many view it as the perfect comeback for the Indian superstar, Rajinikanth who is highly adored by many fans who grew up in the 90s.
5 Shershaah (2021)
Bollywood isn’t just great at crafting romantic films and melodramas; it also excels in crafting some rather compelling war films. Shershaah is a prime example. This is a fictionalized version of the real-life Captain Vikram Batra, who displayed unflinching bravery and courage during the 1999 Kargil war between India and Pakistan. It traces his journey from a determined kid who aspires to become an army officer to the sacrifices he made all the way to defend his country.
This film has been praised for being a great portrayal of Indian’s hero and Malhotra was particularly praised for his convincing portrayal of the captain. While it delves deep into a soldier’s life, it also weaves a romantic story that does not sit well with everyone. Opinions vary and some feel it is just over-hyped.
4 Dhoom 2 (2006)
Dhoom 2 is a Bollywood action thriller film with a star-studded cast that includes Roshan, Aishwarya Rai, Uday Chopra, Abishek Bachan, and Bipasha Basu, all of whom are delightful to watch. It continues the story of Mr. A, a highly skilled international thief known for his cleverness. In this installment, he dares to steal the crown of the Queen of England, setting off a series of thrilling chases and adventure.
Similar to many Bollywood films, this one is lengthy and the perfect feel-good Bollywood movie, not taking itself too serious. It will be fun for those who appreciate it for its light-hearted and thrilling elements. There is action, comedy, suspense and romance for fans of these genres. While viewers accustomed to western movies may struggle with this, big-time fans of Bollywood will find it a delightful watch despite its lengthy duration.
3 Tumbbad (2018)
Tumbbad is a slow-burn horror that avoids relying on jump scares to deliver its scares. It combines elements of mythology and fantasy to produce a refreshing and innovative horror film which delves into the dark and introspective aspect of the human psyche. Set in Tumbbad in the 1920s, this terrifying horror film revolves around a family across three generations and the dire consequences they face for worshiping a demonic entity known as Hastar. It is the story of greed, power and destructive nature of human desires and a must-see in Indian folklore horror.
The remote location, period setting, claustrophobic set pieces, sophisticated camerawork, not to forget the outstanding performances of the cast, all contribute to create a palpable sense of apprehension while being engrossing. Director Rahl Anil Barve’s debut film is nothing short of brilliant.
2 Section 375 (2019)
Directed by Ajah Bahl, this courtroom drama that deals with sensitive issues of rape and the legal system in India makes it to the list of finest Bollywood films on Prime Video. It revolves around two main characters, Taraun, a high-profile defense lawyer, and Hiral, a passionate public prosecutor. When a young woman accuses a famous director of raping her while filming a movie, he is arrested and put on trial, and it is up to these two lawyers to get to the root of it all.
Section 375 is a thought-provoking and contemporary film that challenges viewers to think critically about the legal system and the pursuit of justice. With a run-time of 125 minutes, this film keeps many glued to the screen as the courtroom becomes a battleground for legal arguments and clash of ideologies.
1 Kapoor and Sons (2016)
Kapoor and Sons is a relatable and emotionally resonant film that touches on the themes of love, forgiveness, and acceptance. It is the ideal choice for anyone who loves family dramas with well-developed characters. Set in the picturesque town of Coonoor, India, it revolves around the dysfunctional Kapoor family, played by Rishi Kapoor, Rajat Kapoor, Ratna Pathak Shah, Sidharth Malhotra, and Fawad Khan.
As family conflicts and tensions intensify, the arrival of a beautiful woman, played by Alia Bhatt, further complicates matter as she becomes an object of affection for the Kapoor sons. This film is often praised for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics, tremendous directing, originality, and the outstanding performances of its cast. With its humorous elements, powerful storyline, and valuable themes, Kapoor and Sons offers an enjoyable experience suitable for family viewing.
