Best Indian Films Of 2017: A Complete Guide

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the vibrant world of Indian cinema from 2017? This year was packed with incredible stories, stellar performances, and groundbreaking filmmaking. Whether you're a Bollywood buff or just curious about Indian movies, buckle up – we're about to explore some absolute gems. From blockbuster hits to critically acclaimed masterpieces, 2017 had something for everyone. So, let's get started and discover the best Indian films of 2017!

Bollywood Blockbusters That Ruled the Box Office

In 2017, Bollywood delivered some massive hits that not only dominated the box office but also captured the hearts of millions. These films were more than just entertainment; they were cultural phenomena that sparked conversations and set new benchmarks in the industry. Let's take a closer look at some of the biggest Bollywood blockbusters of the year.

First up, we have Tiger Zinda Hai, a high-octane action thriller starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, this film is a sequel to the 2012 hit Ek Tha Tiger. Tiger Zinda Hai tells the story of two spies, Tiger (Salman Khan) and Zoya (Katrina Kaif), who embark on a dangerous mission to rescue a group of nurses held hostage by a terrorist organization in Iraq. The film is packed with thrilling action sequences, breathtaking stunts, and a gripping storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. What made Tiger Zinda Hai a blockbuster was not just the star power of Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, but also the film's timely and relevant theme of fighting against terrorism. The film's impressive box office collection made it one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.

Next, let's talk about Golmaal Again, the fourth installment in the Golmaal franchise. Directed by Rohit Shetty, this comedy film stars Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Kunal Kemmu, and Shreyas Talpade. Golmaal Again blends humor with supernatural elements, creating a unique and entertaining cinematic experience. The story revolves around a group of friends who encounter a ghost in their old neighborhood, leading to a series of hilarious and spooky events. The film's success can be attributed to its perfect blend of comedy, action, and emotion, as well as the strong chemistry between the cast members. Golmaal Again appealed to audiences of all ages, making it a family-friendly blockbuster.

Another notable mention is Judwaa 2, a remake of the 1997 hit Judwaa. Directed by David Dhawan, this comedy film stars Varun Dhawan in a double role, alongside Jacqueline Fernandez and Taapsee Pannu. Judwaa 2 follows the story of twin brothers who are separated at birth and grow up in different environments. When they reunite, their lives become intertwined, leading to a series of comical and chaotic situations. The film's success can be attributed to Varun Dhawan's energetic performance, the catchy music, and the nostalgic appeal of the original Judwaa. Judwaa 2 proved to be a crowd-pleaser, attracting a large audience to the theaters.

Critically Acclaimed Films That Won Hearts

Beyond the box office hits, 2017 also brought us some critically acclaimed films that touched our hearts and minds. These films stood out for their compelling narratives, exceptional performances, and thought-provoking themes. Let's explore some of these gems that won the hearts of critics and audiences alike.

One of the most acclaimed films of 2017 was Newton, a black comedy-drama directed by Amit V. Masurkar. Starring Rajkummar Rao in the lead role, Newton tells the story of a government clerk who is sent to a Naxal-controlled area in Chhattisgarh to conduct fair elections. The film is a satirical commentary on the Indian electoral system and the challenges of democracy in remote areas. Rajkummar Rao's performance as the idealistic and determined Newton Kumar was widely praised, and the film's realistic portrayal of the socio-political landscape resonated with audiences. Newton won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Hindi Film, and was also selected as India's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards.

Another film that garnered critical acclaim was *** হিন্দি Medium***, a social comedy-drama directed by Saket Chaudhary. Starring Irrfan Khan and Saba Qamar, Hindi Medium addresses the issue of language barriers and the obsession with English in Indian society. The story revolves around a couple from Delhi who go to great lengths to get their daughter admitted to a prestigious English-medium school. The film is a humorous and insightful commentary on the education system and the social inequalities that exist in India. Irrfan Khan's performance was particularly praised, and the film's relatable storyline struck a chord with audiences. Hindi Medium won several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Film, and was a commercial success as well.

Lipstick Under My Burkha, directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, was another critically acclaimed film that sparked conversations and challenged societal norms. The film tells the story of four women in small-town India who seek freedom and happiness despite the restrictions imposed on them by society. Starring Ratna Pathak Shah, Konkona Sen Sharma, Plabita Borthakur, and Ahana Kumra, Lipstick Under My Burkha explores themes of female sexuality, identity, and empowerment. The film faced censorship issues due to its bold and unconventional content, but it eventually received a theatrical release and was widely praised for its powerful message and strong performances.

Regional Cinema Highlights of 2017

While Bollywood often dominates the headlines, the regional film industries in India also produced some outstanding films in 2017. These films showcased the rich diversity and talent that exists across the country. Let's take a look at some of the regional cinema highlights of the year.

From the Malayalam film industry, we have Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, directed by Dileesh Pothan. This crime drama tells the story of a young couple who elope and face unexpected challenges when a thief steals their gold chain. Starring Fahadh Faasil, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and Nimisha Sajayan, Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum is known for its realistic portrayal of human relationships and its gripping narrative. The film won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Malayalam Film, and was praised for its exceptional performances and direction.

In Tamil cinema, Aruvi, directed by Arun Prabhu Purushothaman, made a significant impact with its bold and socially relevant themes. The film tells the story of a young woman who is diagnosed with a terminal illness and uses her remaining time to expose the injustices and hypocrisies of society. Starring Aditi Balan in the lead role, Aruvi is a powerful and thought-provoking film that challenges the status quo and raises important questions about morality and ethics. The film was widely praised for its strong performances, direction, and screenplay.

From the Telugu film industry, we have Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, directed by S.S. Rajamouli. Although technically a multilingual film, its Telugu version gained immense popularity. This epic action film is a sequel to Baahubali: The Beginning and continues the story of the battle for the kingdom of Mahishmati. Starring Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, and Tamannaah Bhatia, Baahubali 2 is known for its stunning visuals, grand scale, and epic storytelling. The film broke numerous box office records and became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.

Performances That Left a Mark

In 2017, several actors delivered memorable performances that left a lasting impact on audiences. These performances were not just about portraying characters; they were about embodying emotions, conveying messages, and bringing stories to life. Let's celebrate some of the actors who shone brightly in 2017.

Rajkummar Rao had an outstanding year in 2017, with stellar performances in films like Newton, Bareilly Ki Barfi, and Trapped. His portrayal of Newton Kumar in Newton was particularly praised for its sincerity and authenticity. Rao's ability to embody the character's idealism and determination made him a standout performer of the year.

Irrfan Khan continued to impress audiences with his nuanced and captivating performances. In Hindi Medium, he delivered a memorable portrayal of a father who is willing to go to any lengths to secure his daughter's future. Khan's comedic timing and emotional depth made his performance a highlight of the year.

Aditi Balan made a remarkable debut in Aruvi, delivering a powerful and fearless performance as a young woman who challenges societal norms. Her ability to convey a range of emotions, from vulnerability to anger, made her performance unforgettable.

Conclusion: A Year of Cinematic Excellence

2017 was truly a year of cinematic excellence for Indian cinema. From Bollywood blockbusters to critically acclaimed films and regional cinema highlights, there was no shortage of compelling stories and outstanding performances. These films not only entertained audiences but also sparked conversations, challenged norms, and left a lasting impact on society. Whether you're a seasoned film buff or new to Indian cinema, the films of 2017 offer a rich and diverse cinematic experience that is sure to captivate and inspire. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the best that Indian cinema had to offer in 2017!