Best Bollywood Movies Of 2016: A Complete Guide

Hey guys! Ready for a trip down memory lane? Let's dive into the vibrant world of Bollywood and explore some of the best Indian films that hit the screens back in 2016. This year was packed with a mix of genres, from heartwarming dramas to action-packed thrillers and laugh-out-loud comedies, showcasing the incredible talent and storytelling prowess of the Indian film industry. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get started!

Box Office Blockbusters and Critically Acclaimed Gems

Bollywood movies in 2016 delivered a fascinating mix of box office successes and critically acclaimed films. One movie that comes to mind is "Dangal," a biographical sports drama that not only won hearts in India but also resonated with audiences worldwide. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, this film 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. "Dangal" is more than just a sports film; it's a powerful narrative about breaking stereotypes, pursuing dreams against all odds, and the bond between a father and his daughters. Aamir Khan's performance as Mahavir Singh Phogat was nothing short of brilliant, and the young actresses who played Geeta and Babita delivered equally compelling performances. The film's success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, strong emotional core, and the way it tackled important social issues. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to reflect on your own aspirations and the challenges you face in achieving them. Moreover, the film’s soundtrack, composed by Pritam, became an instant hit, with songs like "Haanikaarak Bapu" and "Dangal" becoming anthems in their own right. The music perfectly complements the film's narrative, adding depth and emotion to the storytelling. "Dangal" set a new benchmark for Indian cinema, proving that films with strong social messages and compelling narratives can also achieve massive commercial success. Its impact on Indian society was significant, inspiring young girls to take up sports and challenging traditional gender roles. If you haven't seen "Dangal" yet, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates quality cinema and inspiring stories. It's a film that celebrates the human spirit and the power of determination, making it a timeless classic in the realm of Bollywood movies. The meticulous attention to detail, from the wrestling sequences to the portrayal of rural Haryana, added to the film's authenticity and appeal. It's a testament to the director's vision and the dedication of the entire cast and crew.

Romantic Dramas That Pulled at Our Heartstrings

In the realm of Indian films, romantic dramas hold a special place, and 2016 brought us some unforgettable stories of love, loss, and longing. One such film is "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil," directed by Karan Johar, which explores the complexities of unrequited love and friendship. The film features a stellar cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, each delivering memorable performances that tug at your heartstrings. "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" tells the story of Ayan and Alizeh, two individuals who form a deep connection but struggle to define their relationship. Ayan is hopelessly in love with Alizeh, but she sees him only as a friend, leading to a bittersweet journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The film beautifully captures the pain and beauty of unrequited love, with dialogues that resonate with anyone who has experienced similar emotions. Karan Johar's directorial touch is evident in every frame, from the opulent sets to the evocative music, creating a visually stunning and emotionally charged cinematic experience. The soundtrack of "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil," composed by Pritam, became a massive hit, with songs like "Channa Mereya" and "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" topping the charts and becoming anthems for lovers and heartbroken souls alike. The music perfectly complements the film's narrative, adding depth and emotion to the storytelling. Beyond the romantic drama, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" also explores themes of friendship, identity, and the importance of self-acceptance. The characters in the film are flawed and relatable, making their journey all the more compelling. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's portrayal of Saba, a sophisticated and independent poet, adds a layer of maturity and complexity to the film, while Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma's chemistry is undeniable. Whether you're a fan of romantic dramas or not, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" is a film that will leave you pondering the nuances of love and relationships. Its exploration of unrequited love is both poignant and thought-provoking, making it a standout film in the Bollywood landscape. The film's success can be attributed to its relatable characters, engaging storyline, and the way it tackles universal themes of love and loss. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to reflect on your own relationships and the choices you make in the pursuit of happiness.

Action-Packed Thrillers That Kept Us on the Edge of Our Seats

For those who crave adrenaline-pumping action and suspenseful plots, Bollywood movies in 2016 offered a range of thrilling films that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. "Pink," directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, is a courtroom drama that tackles the sensitive issue of consent and challenges societal attitudes towards women. The film features a powerful cast, including Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, and Kirti Kulhari, each delivering compelling performances that leave a lasting impact. "Pink" tells the story of three young women who find themselves embroiled in a legal battle after an incident at a party. The film fearlessly confronts issues of victim-blaming, gender inequality, and the importance of respecting a woman's right to say no. Amitabh Bachchan's portrayal of a lawyer fighting for justice is both powerful and inspiring, while Taapsee Pannu and Kirti Kulhari deliver equally compelling performances as the women at the center of the case. "Pink" is more than just a courtroom drama; it's a social commentary that challenges deeply ingrained societal norms and attitudes. The film's success can be attributed to its gripping storyline, strong performances, and the way it tackles important social issues. It's a film that sparks conversations and encourages viewers to question their own biases and assumptions. Beyond the courtroom drama, "Pink" also explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The characters in the film are flawed and relatable, making their journey all the more compelling. The film's impact on Indian society was significant, raising awareness about the importance of consent and challenging traditional gender roles. If you haven't seen "Pink" yet, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking cinema and socially relevant stories. It's a film that celebrates the strength and resilience of women, and the power of justice. The film's success lies in its ability to engage audiences emotionally while also delivering a powerful message. It's a testament to the director's vision and the dedication of the entire cast and crew. "Neerja", a biographical thriller directed by Ram Madhvani, is another standout film from 2016. Starring Sonam Kapoor in the titular role, the film recounts the heroic story of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life to save passengers on Pan Am Flight 73, which was hijacked by terrorists in Karachi in 1986. "Neerja" is a gripping and emotionally charged film that pays tribute to the courage and selflessness of a true hero. Sonam Kapoor's performance as Neerja Bhanot is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the character's vulnerability and strength. The film's success can be attributed to its compelling storyline, strong performances, and the way it honors the memory of a real-life hero. It's a film that inspires viewers to reflect on their own values and the choices they make in the face of adversity. Beyond the thriller aspect, "Neerja" also explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The characters in the film are well-developed and relatable, making their journey all the more compelling. The film's impact on Indian society was significant, reminding people of the importance of bravery and selflessness. If you haven't seen "Neerja" yet, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates inspiring stories and quality cinema. It's a film that celebrates the human spirit and the power of courage, making it a timeless classic in the realm of Bollywood movies.

Comedies That Made Us Laugh Out Loud

Indian films wouldn't be complete without a dose of laughter, and 2016 delivered some hilarious comedies that had audiences rolling in the aisles. "Housefull 3," directed by Sajid-Farhad, is a comedy film that brought together a star-studded cast, including Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh. The film is known for its slapstick humor, witty dialogues, and entertaining storyline. "Housefull 3" revolves around a wealthy businessman and his three daughters, each of whom is in love with a different man. The film follows the hilarious escapades of the three couples as they try to win the approval of the girls' overprotective father. With its over-the-top characters and laugh-out-loud moments, "Housefull 3" is a perfect example of a Bollywood comedy that aims to entertain and amuse. The film's success can be attributed to its ensemble cast, witty dialogues, and the way it delivers pure comedic entertainment. It's a film that doesn't take itself too seriously, offering viewers a chance to unwind and enjoy a lighthearted story. Beyond the comedy, "Housefull 3" also explores themes of love, family, and the importance of communication. The characters in the film are quirky and relatable, making their journey all the more entertaining. If you're in the mood for a good laugh, "Housefull 3" is a must-watch. It's a film that will leave you feeling uplifted and entertained. The film's success lies in its ability to deliver pure comedic entertainment without delving into complex themes or social issues. It's a testament to the director's vision and the dedication of the entire cast and crew.

Other Notable Films of 2016

Besides the blockbusters and critically acclaimed films, 2016 also saw the release of several other Bollywood movies that deserve mention. "Kapoor & Sons," directed by Shakun Batra, is a heartwarming family drama that explores the complexities of relationships and the secrets that families often keep hidden. The film features a stellar cast, including Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, and Alia Bhatt, each delivering memorable performances that resonate with audiences. "Dear Zindagi," directed by Gauri Shinde, is a coming-of-age drama that tells the story of a young woman who seeks therapy to deal with her emotional issues. The film stars Alia Bhatt in the lead role, with Shah Rukh Khan playing her therapist. "M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story," directed by Neeraj Pandey, is a biographical sports drama based on the life of Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The film stars Sushant Singh Rajput in the lead role, portraying Dhoni's journey from a small-town boy to a world-renowned cricketer. These films, along with many others, contributed to the rich tapestry of Bollywood cinema in 2016, showcasing the industry's versatility and its ability to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best Indian films of 2016. It was a year filled with memorable stories, stellar performances, and a diverse range of genres. Whether you're a fan of romantic dramas, action-packed thrillers, or laugh-out-loud comedies, 2016 had something for everyone. Happy watching!