The past year was an excellent one for Bollywood movies. This year, several films—acclaimed by critics and audiences alike—saw both critical success and box office results.
The films have generated a lot of buzz among audiences and critics worldwide.
Here, we have listed 19 of the best Bollywood films of 2018. Our editorial team carefully considered all aspects such as story line and cinematography before choosing these movies.
We hope that you will find this list useful while choosing which movie to watch next!
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19 Best Bollywood Movies of 2018
The list below is in no particular order. Some of the best Bollywood movies of 2018 are:
1. Andhadhun (2018)
- Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, Radhika Apte
- Director: Sriram Raghavan
Andhadhun is a dark comedy thriller that follows the journey of a blind pianist who unwittingly becomes entangled in a series of mysterious events after witnessing a murder.
With its clever plot twists, impeccable performances, and captivating storytelling, Andhadhun earned critical acclaim and became a commercial success.
Ayushmann Khurrana delivers a standout performance, while Tabu mesmerizes as a femme fatale. Director Sriram Raghavan masterfully weaves a web of suspense, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats until the thrilling climax.
Andhadhun stands as a testament to the mastery of storytelling in Bollywood and solidifies its place as one of the best Bollywood movies of 2018.
2. Badhaai Ho (2018)
- Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Neena Gupta, Gajraj Rao
- Director: Amit Ravindernath Sharma
Badhaai Ho is a heartwarming comedy-drama that tackles societal judgment and family dynamics with humor and sensitivity.
The film revolves around a middle-aged couple who find themselves unexpectedly expecting a child, leading to amusing and poignant situations.
Ayushmann Khurrana delivers yet another remarkable performance, supported by Neena Gupta and Gajraj Rao, who portray the parents grappling with the news.
Director Amit Ravindernath Sharma strikes a perfect balance between comedy and drama, crafting a narrative that challenges societal norms and celebrates the complexities of familial love.
Badhaai Ho resonated with audiences for its relatability, exceptional performances, and feel-good storytelling, making it one of the best Bollywood movies of 2018.
3. Raazi (2018)
- Cast: Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal
- Director: Meghna Gulzar
Raazi is a gripping spy thriller based on a true story that unfolds during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
The film follows Sehmat, an Indian woman who marries a Pakistani man to gather crucial intelligence for her country.
Alia Bhatt delivers a compelling performance, portraying Sehmat’s journey of sacrifice, loyalty, and bravery.
Director Meghna Gulzar masterfully creates an atmosphere of tension and intrigue, highlighting the personal and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist.
Raazi explores themes of patriotism, love, and sacrifice, offering a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of espionage and war.
With its engrossing narrative and stellar performances, Raazi secured its place as one of the top Bollywood movies of 2018.
4. Padmaavat (2018)
- Cast: Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, Ranveer Singh
- Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Padmaavat is an epic period drama set in medieval Rajasthan that tells the story of Queen Padmavati and the siege of her kingdom by the ruthless Sultan Alauddin Khilji.
Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali creates a visually stunning masterpiece, capturing the grandeur and opulence of the era.
Queen Padmavati is performed with regal poise by Deepika Padukone, while Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh excel in their roles.
The film’s breathtaking cinematography and intricate costumes have earned it widespread praise
This year, the film Padmaavat sparked conversations about artistic expression and historical accuracy, making it one of the most talked-about Bollywood movies of 2018—and solidifying its place among the top films.
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5. Stree (2018)
- Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi
- Director: Amar Kaushik
Stree is a unique horror comedy that blends elements of folklore and urban legend to deliver an entertaining and spooky cinematic experience.
Set in a small town haunted by a vengeful female spirit, the film follows a tailor, played by Rajkummar Rao, and his encounters with the mysterious entity.
Director Amar Kaushik expertly weaves humor and horror, creating a film that keeps audiences engaged and guessing until the end.
Rajkummar Rao’s brilliant performance, along with support from Shraddha Kapoor and Pankaj Tripathi, makes a compelling story even more engaging.
Stree received acclaim for its innovative approach to the horror genre and its ability to blend scars with laughter, making it a standout Bollywood movie of 2018.
6. Sanju (2018)
- Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Vicky Kaushal
- Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Sanju is a compelling biographical drama that offers a glimpse into the controversial life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt.
Ranbir Kapoor delivers a transformative performance, capturing the essence and complexities of Sanjay Dutt’s journey, from his struggles with addiction to his legal troubles.
Director Rajkumar Hirani combines elements of drama, humor, and emotion, providing an intimate and honest portrayal of the actor’s life.
Sanju struck a chord with audiences, becoming one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of 2018 and garnering critical acclaim for its storytelling and performances.
7. October (2018)
October is a poignant romantic drama that explores the intricacies of human connection and the power of love.
The film follows the relationship between a hotel management trainee and his comatose coworker. Varun Dhawan delivers a sensitive and nuanced performance, supported by Banita Sandhu in her debut role.
Director Shoojit Sircar creates a soulful and introspective narrative, emphasizing the significance of small moments and the depth of human emotions.
October received critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, atmospheric cinematography, and powerful performances, cementing its place as one of the best Bollywood movies of 2018.
8. Tumbbad (2018)
- Cast: Sohum Shah
- Directors: Rahi Anil Barve, Anand Gandhi
Tumbbad is a dark fantasy horror film set in a village haunted by a mythical creature. The film explores the consequences of greed and the cyclical nature of desire.
Sohum Shah delivers a captivating performance as the protagonist, portraying the complexities and moral dilemmas faced by his character.
Directors Rahi Anil Barve and Anand Gandhi create a haunting and atmospheric world, enveloping viewers in a tale of supernatural terror.
Tumbbad received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, evocative visuals, and strong performances, solidifying its place as one of the top Bollywood movies of 2018.
9. Mulk (2018)
- Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Taapsee Pannu
- Director: Anubhav Sinha
Mulk is a powerful courtroom drama that confronts religious prejudice and challenges stereotypes. The film follows a Muslim family’s fight for justice after their son is wrongly accused of terrorism.
Rishi Kapoor delivers a stellar performance as the patriarch of the family, while Taapsee Pannu shines as the lawyer defending their case. Director Anubhav Sinha skillfully addresses pertinent social issues and raises important questions about communal harmony and the repercussions of prejudice.
Mulk garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative, strong performances, and its ability to spark conversations about inclusivity and unity in society.
10. Hichki (2018)
- Cast: Rani Mukerji
- Director: Siddharth P. Malhotra
Hichki is a heartwarming drama that centers around a woman with Tourette syndrome who becomes an inspiration and transforms the lives of her students as a teacher.
Rani Mukerji delivers a captivating performance, portraying the challenges and triumphs of her character with depth and sensitivity.
Director Siddharth P. Malhotra crafts a narrative that celebrates the power of determination, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
Hichki resonated with audiences for its heartfelt storytelling, memorable performances, and its message of embracing differences and pursuing one’s dreams.
The film stands as a shining example of an inspiring and uplifting Bollywood movie of 2018.
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11. Manmarziyaan (2018)
- Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
Manmarziyaan is a captivating love triangle that delves into the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and personal desires.
The film follows the intertwined lives of Rumi, Vicky, and Robbie as they navigate the tumultuous journey of love.
Rumi, played by Taapsee Pannu, finds herself torn between her impulsive lover Vicky, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal, and the stable and reliable Robbie, portrayed by Abhishek Bachchan.
12. Mukkabaaz (2018)
- Cast: Vineet Kumar Singh, Zoya Hussain
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
Mukkabaaz is a hard-hitting sports drama that delves into the struggles of a lower-caste boxer named Shravan Singh as he fights against societal discrimination and political corruption.
The film showcases Shravan’s determination, resilience, and his battle against all odds to achieve his dreams.
With powerful performances and a gritty storyline, Mukkabaaz sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals from marginalized backgrounds and offers a thought-provoking commentary on the deep-rooted prejudices of society.
13. Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran (2018)
- Cast: John Abraham, Diana Penty, Boman Irani
- Director: Abhishek Sharma
Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran is a thrilling drama based on true events that unfold during India’s nuclear bomb test explosions in 1998.
The film chronicles the efforts of Indian scientists and the challenges they faced in carrying out the covert operation.
John Abraham delivers a convincing performance as an army officer leading the mission, supported by Diana Penty and Boman Irani in pivotal roles.
Director Abhishek Sharma recreates the tense atmosphere and captures the patriotic fervor surrounding the event.
Parmanu pays homage to the unsung heroes behind the success of India’s nuclear program and celebrates the spirit of scientific achievement. With its gripping narrative and patriotic undertones, the film became one of the standout Bollywood movies of 2018.
14. Karwaan (2018)
- Cast: Irrfan Khan, Dulquer Salmaan, Mithila Palkar
- Director: Akarsh Khurana
Karwaan is a delightful road trip comedy-drama that takes audiences on an unexpected journey of self-discovery.
The film follows the lives of three individuals – Avinash, Shaukat, and Tanya – as they embark on a road trip to fulfill a series of unconventional and humorous tasks.
Irrfan Khan, Dulquer Salmaan, and Mithila Palkar deliver engaging performances, infusing their characters with charm and wit.
Director Akarsh Khurana beautifully captures the essence of travel, friendship, and finding oneself amidst the unpredictability of life.
Karwaan strikes a balance between light-hearted humor and introspective moments, leaving audiences with a warm and uplifting feeling.
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15. Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018)
- Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha, Sunny Singh
- Director: Luv Ranjan
Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety is a hilarious romantic comedy about a bromance challenged by the entry of a manipulative woman into the lives of two best friends.
Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha, and Sunny Singh deliver entertaining performances, bringing their characters to life with humor and wit.
Director Luv Ranjan skillfully balances comedy and drama, creating a film that keeps audiences laughing while delving into themes of loyalty, trust, and the dynamics of relationships.
Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety struck a chord with viewers for its relatability and lighthearted take on modern love, earning its place as one of the top Bollywood movies of 2018.
16. Pataakha (2018)
- Cast: Sanya Malhotra, Radhika Madan
- Director: Vishal Bhardwaj
Pataakha is a quirky comedy-drama centered around the tumultuous relationship between two sisters, Badki and Chhutki, who are constantly at odds with each other.
Sanya Malhotra and Radhika Madan deliver remarkable performances, portraying the complexity of their characters’ bond with equal parts humor and emotion.
Pataakha explores themes of sibling rivalry, love, and reconciliation, offering a fresh and entertaining take on family dynamics.
17. Manto (2018)
- Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Rasika Dugal
- Director: Nandita Das
Manto is a compelling biographical drama based on the life of renowned Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto, highlighting his struggles and the socio-political climate of the time.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, portraying the complexities and brilliance of Manto’s writing.
Rasika Dugal shines as Manto’s wife, Safia. Director Nandita Das pays homage to Manto’s literary legacy and confronts the themes of censorship, freedom of expression, and the power of storytelling.
Manto received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the writer’s life and the era he lived in. It stands as a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of art, society, and the enduring spirit of an artist.
18. Bhavesh Joshi Superhero (2018)
- Cast: Harshvardhan Kapoor, Priyanshu Painyuli
- Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
Bhavesh Joshi Superhero is a vigilante superhero film that follows the journey of a young man named Bhavesh Joshi as he takes on corruption and injustice in society.
Harshvardhan Kapoor delivers a compelling performance, portraying the transformation of a common man into a masked crusader.
Director Vikramaditya Motwane infuses the film with gritty realism and social commentary, highlighting the prevalent issues plaguing society.
Bhavesh Joshi Superhero explores themes of activism, morality, and the power of individuals to bring about change.
With its engaging narrative, intense action sequences, and relevant social message, the film resonated with audiences and solidified its place as one of the noteworthy Bollywood movies of 2018.
19. Zero (2018)
- Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma, Katrina Kaif
- Director: Aanand L. Rai
Zero is a romantic drama that tells the story of Bauua Singh, a vertically challenged man who falls in love with Aafia, a woman with cerebral palsy.
Their unconventional love story takes them on a journey of self-discovery, as they navigate their dreams, desires, and societal expectations.
Shah Rukh Khan delivers a charismatic performance as Bauua Singh, supported by Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif in compelling roles.
Director Aanand L. Rai crafts a visually stunning film, blending elements of romance, comedy, and drama. Zero explores themes of love, acceptance, and the pursuit of happiness, offering a heartfelt and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.
With its stellar cast, innovative storytelling, and soulful music, Zero became one of the highly anticipated and talked-about Bollywood movies of 2018.
Conclusion
The top Bollywood movies of 2018 offered a diverse range of narratives, genres, and performances that left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
From gripping thrillers like Andhadhun and Raazi to heartwarming dramas like Badhaai Ho and October, these films captured the essence of storytelling and showcased the immense talent within the industry.
With their engaging narratives, powerful performances, and cinematic brilliance, these movies continue to be celebrated as the best Bollywood films of 2018, entertaining and inspiring audiences around the world.
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Best Movies of 2018 Bollywood: FAQs
1. Q: What are some of the best Bollywood movies of 2018?
A: Some of the best Bollywood movies of 2018 include Andhadhun, Badhaai Ho, Raazi, Padmaavat, and Stree.
2. Q: Which Bollywood movie from 2018 received critical acclaim and was a box office success?
A: Padmaavat received both critical acclaim and was a box office success. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the epic period drama captivated audiences with its grandeur, compelling storytelling, and stellar performances.
3. Q: Are there any notable comedy movies from 2018 in Bollywood?
A: Yes, Badhaai Ho and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety are notable comedy movies from 2018. Badhaai Ho tackles societal judgment and family dynamics with humor, while Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety explores the dynamics of friendship and love with a lighthearted twist.
4. Q: Are there any noteworthy performances by actors in Bollywood movies of 2018?
A: Yes, Ayushmann Khurrana stood out with his exceptional performances in both Andhadhun and Badhaai Ho. Additionally, Vicky Kaushal’s performances in Raazi and Manmarziyaan garnered praise for his versatility and acting prowess.
5. Q: Are there any must-watch biographical dramas from 2018 in Bollywood?
A: Yes, Manto and Sanju are must-watch biographical dramas from 2018. Manto delves into the life of renowned Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto, while Sanju portrays the controversial life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt.