The 10 Best Indian Movies of 2020 (Ranked)

Ashok Selvan's 'Oh My Kadavule' is a delightful Tamil fantasy rom-com that injects fresh life into the genre. It cleverly uses a magical premise – a second chance at love and marriage – to explore the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. The film's strength lies in its charming performances, particularly from Selvan and Ritika Singh, and its ability to blend humor with genuine emotional depth. It navigates the nuances of marital discord and friendship with a light touch, offering a refreshing perspective on commitment and understanding. A truly feel-good experience that resonates long after the credits roll.

Sudha Kongara's 'Soorarai Pottru' is a soaring Tamil biopic, a powerful testament to ambition and perseverance. Suriya delivers a career-defining performance as Nedumaaran Rajangam, a man driven by the dream of making air travel accessible to all. The film masterfully captures the grit, sacrifices, and systemic hurdles faced by an underdog entrepreneur. Its emotional core is robust, fueled by strong performances from the entire cast, especially Aparna Balamurali. This is not just a story of aviation; it's a deeply inspiring narrative about fighting against all odds and the indomitable human spirit.

Sachy's 'Ayyappanum Koshiyum' is a Malayalam cinematic tour-de-force, a raw and riveting exploration of ego, power, and masculinity. The film pits two formidable characters, a police officer and a retired havildar, against each other in a battle of wills that escalates with gripping intensity. Prithviraj Sukumaran and Biju Menon deliver career-best performances, embodying their roles with visceral authenticity. The narrative is meticulously crafted, delving into the societal structures and personal pride that fuel their conflict. It's a masterclass in character development and escalating tension, a truly unforgettable experience.

Sooni Taraporevala's 'Yeh Ballet' is a poignant and inspiring Hindi drama based on a true story. It chronicles the journey of two underprivileged Mumbai boys who defy societal expectations to pursue their dreams of becoming ballet dancers. The film beautifully captures their struggles, sacrifices, and the transformative power of art. It's a narrative rich in hope, resilience, and the mentorship that can change lives. The performances are earnest and heartfelt, making this a deeply moving portrayal of aspiration against adversity, highlighting the universal language of dance and determination.

Sandeep Raj's 'Colour Photo' is a deeply affecting Telugu period romance that bravely confronts themes of caste discrimination and societal prejudice. Set in the 1990s, it tells the story of a dark-skinned young man and a fair-skinned woman whose love is challenged by deeply entrenched biases. The film is emotionally resonant, driven by strong performances from Suhas and Chandini Chowdary, who bring authenticity to their roles. It's a poignant commentary on beauty standards and social injustice, delivered with a raw honesty that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

Priyanka Banerjee's 'Devi' is a powerful and unsettling Hindi short film that brings together an ensemble of acclaimed actresses. Set in a single room, it explores the shared trauma and collective resilience of women from different walks of life who have been victims of sexual violence. The film is a masterclass in tension and emotional depth, with each actress delivering a nuanced performance that contributes to the collective narrative. It's a stark, unflinching look at a pervasive societal issue, fostering empathy and sparking crucial conversations about sisterhood and survival.

Prateek Vats' 'Eeb Allay Ooo!' is a uniquely satirical Hindi film that offers a darkly humorous look at urban alienation and the absurdities of precarious labor. It follows a young migrant tasked with scaring away monkeys from government buildings, a job that forces him to mimic their calls. The film is a brilliant piece of observational cinema, blending social commentary with an almost surrealistic touch. It critiques class disparities and the dehumanizing nature of certain professions with wit and poignancy, making it a truly original and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Bejoy Nambiar's 'Taish' is a stylish and intense Hindi thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of revenge and family loyalty. Presented as both a feature film and a web series, it weaves a complex narrative of two families whose lives become intertwined through a brutal act of violence. The film's non-linear structure and visceral action sequences create a gripping, often unsettling, viewing experience. It explores the cyclical nature of vengeance and the destructive power of unresolved anger, propelled by strong performances and a distinctive visual aesthetic.

Girish Malik's 'Torbaaz' is a Hindi sports drama set against the grim backdrop of Afghanistan, offering a glimmer of hope amidst conflict. Sanjay Dutt plays a former doctor who uses cricket to rehabilitate young boys affected by war and extremism. While the film's execution has its uneven moments, its humanitarian message and focus on redemption are commendable. It attempts to highlight the transformative power of sport and mentorship in healing deep-seated trauma, providing a narrative that aims for emotional resonance and a plea for peace and normalcy.

Venkatesh Maha's 'Uma Maheswara Ugra Roopasya' is a delightful Telugu drama, a faithful and charming adaptation of the Malayalam film 'Maheshinte Prathikaaram'. It tells the story of a mild-mannered photographer who vows not to wear slippers until he avenges a public humiliation. The film excels in its understated humor, authentic portrayal of rural life, and the protagonist's journey of self-discovery. Satyadev Kancharana delivers a nuanced performance, making Uma Maheswara a relatable and endearing character. It's a gentle, heartwarming tale about finding one's inner strength and dignity.