If you are a cinephile with a penchant for Hindi cinema, Zee5 offers a compelling selection of films that cover a wide spectrum of genres, from drama and romance to thrillers and biopics. Here, we’ve handpicked ten of the best Hindi movies available on Zee5 that will cater to all your cinematic needs.
1. URI: The Surgical Strike (2019)
“Uri: The Surgical Strike” is an impressive 2019 war film directed by Aditya Dhar, inspired by the true events of the 2016 Indian Army’s surgical strike on terrorist launch pads in Pakistan. The film stands as a tribute to the Indian military and their unseen sacrifices. Featuring Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, the movie portrays a visceral sense of patriotism and courage.
Kaushal’s performance as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill is commanding and intense, creating a profound resonance with the audience. The narrative seamlessly merges personal emotions with military operations, adding depth to the characters.
With high-octane action sequences, a gripping storyline, and a balanced portrayal of war’s complexities, “Uri” succeeds in holding viewers’ attention from start to finish.
The famous line “How’s the Josh?” from the movie has become an iconic symbol of India’s military spirit. This film is a must-watch for those who appreciate well-crafted war dramas.
In August 2023, Bollywood screened URI: The Surgical Strike in Manipur and made a comeback to the state after two decades.
2. Dream Girl (2019)
“Dream Girl” is a delightful Bollywood comedy-drama directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa. The film stars Ayushmann Khurrana, who demonstrates his versatility yet again, playing the character of Karamveer Singh, a young man who possesses an uncanny ability to imitate a woman’s voice.
Karamveer’s talent lands him a job at a call center, where he plays ‘Pooja’, an enchanting tele-caller who quickly becomes popular among the call center’s clients. The hilarious confusion and chaos that ensues as his clients fall in love with his alter-ego form the crux of the plot.
Nushrat Bharucha, Annu Kapoor, and Manjot Singh also give commendable performances in supporting roles. Amidst the comedy, “Dream Girl” subtly touches on the themes of loneliness and the yearning for companionship in today’s world. With its blend of laughter, romance, and social commentary, “Dream Girl” makes for an entertaining watch.
3. Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)
‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’ is a charming romantic comedy set in the heartland of India. The story revolves around the life of Bitti Mishra (Kriti Sanon), a free-spirited young woman from Bareilly who rejects societal norms.
She falls in love with the author of a novel, only to discover later that the book’s sensitive and understanding protagonist is an imaginative creation of the actual brusque author, played by Rajkummar Rao.
Ayushmann Khurrana shines as the intermediary in the complex love triangle. And Kriti Sanon played her character pretty well and did justice to her role. With a delightful screenplay and hilarious dialogues, ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi‘ beautifully captures the essence of small-town India.
The film boasts standout performances, particularly from Rao, who exhibits impeccable comedic timing. Overall, ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’ is a sweet, light-hearted movie that combines romance, humor, and relatable characters, making it a truly enjoyable watch.
4. Qarib Qarib Singlle (2017)
“Qarib Qarib Singlle” is a refreshing departure from the typical Bollywood romance. Directed by Tanuja Chandra, this film is a breezy romantic comedy that takes you on a journey of self-discovery, love, and second chances.
The story unfolds through the unlikely pairing of Jaya (Parvathy Thiruvothu), a widowed insurance worker leading a monotonous life, and Yogi (Irrfan Khan), a vibrant poet with an unconventional worldview. What starts as a casual online chat transforms into a whimsical cross-country trip.
As they embark on a quest to revisit Yogi’s exes, the movie serves up delightful interactions and introspective moments. The chemistry between Parvathy and the late Irrfan Khan is heartwarming and organic, making their eccentric road trip a memorable experience. It’s a feel-good movie that beautifully portrays that life, much like love, is indeed a journey, not a destination. Watch “Qarib Qarib Singlle” for its charm, humor, and unforgettable performance by Irrfan Khan.
5. Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana (2017)
‘Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana’ is a delightful Hindi romantic drama directed by Ratnaa Sinha. The film, starring Rajkummar Rao and Kriti Kharbanda, is a refreshing blend of romance, drama, and social commentary.
It follows the story of Satyendra, an IAS officer, and Aarti, an aspiring PCS officer, who meet for a proposed arranged marriage and eventually fall in love.
On their wedding day, however, Aarti runs away to pursue her career aspirations, leaving Satyendra at the altar. The film beautifully navigates through themes of gender inequality, societal expectations, and the empowering importance of a woman’s career.
With stellar performances by the leads, especially Rao’s exceptional portrayal of heartbreak and revenge, Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana successfully blends traditional and modern values. The film’s strong narrative and heartwarming storyline, punctuated by an emotional climax, make it a must-watch for fans of Hindi cinema.
6. Mom (2017)
‘Mom’ is a riveting Hindi crime thriller that explores a mother’s relentless pursuit of justice. Helmed by Ravi Udyawar, the film features the late Sridevi in a powerful and memorable role, which deservedly won her a posthumous National Film Award for Best Actress.
Sridevi portrays Devki, a biology teacher turned avenger after her step-daughter Arya, played by Sajal Ali, becomes the victim of a heinous crime.
The film uses this narrative to provide a profound commentary on the pervading issue of sexual violence in India. Nawazuddin Siddiqui, in the role of a private detective, delivers a commendable performance.
AR Rahman’s hauntingly beautiful music score elevates the intense, emotional moments in the film. ‘Mom‘ is a poignant testament to a mother’s boundless love and the lengths she will go to protect her child.
It leaves viewers with a profound sense of introspection about societal attitudes toward victims of sexual assault. Sadly, it was the last movie of Sridevi and 5 years after its release, Bonny Kapoor remembered his wife with an emotional post.
7. The Kashmir Files (2022)
“The Kashmir Files” is a thought-provoking and hard-hitting film released in 2022 that sheds light on the untold stories and events surrounding the Kashmir conflict. Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, the film delves deep into the historical context and explores the narratives of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to flee their homes due to violence and insurgency.
This gripping drama presents a fictionalized account of the events that unfolded in the late 1980s and early 1990s, intertwining real incidents and characters. “The Kashmir Files” aims to bring attention to the human rights violations, political turmoil, and social upheaval that took place during this tumultuous period.
With a stellar ensemble cast led by Anupam Kher, the film creates a sense of urgency and serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community. It raises important questions about identity, justice, and the long-lasting impact of the conflict on the lives of those affected.
“The Kashmir Files” serves as a powerful narrative that seeks to initiate a dialogue and provoke reflection on one of the most complex and sensitive issues in Indian history. It prompts viewers to delve deeper into the realities and complexities of the Kashmir conflict, highlighting the need for empathy, understanding, and reconciliation.
8. Toilet: A Love Story (2017)
“Toilet: A Love Story” (2017) is a heartwarming romantic comedy that tackles a significant social issue prevalent in rural India – the lack of proper sanitation facilities. Directed by Shree Narayan Singh, the film stars Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar in lead roles.
The story revolves around Keshav (Akshay Kumar), a man deeply in love with Jaya (Bhumi Pednekar), who leaves him due to the absence of a toilet in his home. Determined to win her back, Keshav embarks on a mission to bring about a change in his village, challenging age-old traditions and societal norms.
“Toilet: A Love Story” sheds light on the importance of sanitation and women’s safety, weaving it into a heartwarming love story. It tackles the issue with humor and sensitivity while raising awareness about the need for proper hygiene and sanitation facilities for all.
The film skillfully blends social commentary with entertainment, delivering a powerful message about individual responsibility, gender equality, and the necessity of accessible sanitation infrastructure. Akshay Kumar delivers a remarkable performance, effortlessly transitioning between light-hearted moments and emotional depth.
“Toilet: A Love Story” is a thought-provoking film that not only entertains but also educates and inspires audiences. It highlights the importance of addressing social issues and working towards positive change. This movie serves as a reminder that love can transcend societal barriers and ignite a transformative journey toward progress and inclusivity.
9. Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran (2018)
“Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran” is a gripping historical drama that recounts the untold story of India’s successful nuclear bomb test conducted in Pokhran in 1998. Directed by Abhishek Sharma, the film stars John Abraham, Diana Penty, and Boman Irani in pivotal roles.
The film takes us back to the late 1990s when India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, embarked on a covert mission to conduct nuclear tests. John Abraham portrays the character of Ashwat Raina, an officer from the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), who plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the operation.
“Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran” is a captivating tale of patriotism, resilience, and strategic planning. It highlights the challenges faced by the team involved in the mission and the risks they took to safeguard national security.
The movie effectively captures the tension, secrecy, and pressure surrounding the operation, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The performances, especially by John Abraham, are commendable, immersing audiences in the high-stakes world of covert operations.
The film not only showcases the technical aspects of the nuclear tests but also delves into the personal sacrifices made by the individuals involved. It pays tribute to the unwavering dedication and commitment of the team, shedding light on a significant chapter in India’s history.
Parmanu is a compelling film that combines elements of patriotism, suspense, and drama. It not only entertains but also educates viewers about a significant milestone in India’s journey as a nuclear power. The movie serves as a reminder of the determination and spirit of the individuals who worked tirelessly to uphold the nation’s security and sovereignty.
10. U-Turn (2023)
“U-Turn” is a supernatural thriller released recently on Zee5. The film is a gripping thriller film directed by Arif Khan, released in 2023. The movie takes audiences on a nail-biting journey filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists.
Set in a small town, the plot revolves around a young woman named Radhika Bakshi, played by a talented actress, Alaya F, who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and danger after a fateful U-turn on a highway.
As Maya investigates the strange occurrences surrounding the town and its inhabitants, she discovers a dark secret that puts her own life at risk. Arif Khan’s skillful direction keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, as the tension builds and the true nature of the town’s secrets is unveiled.
With its intense storyline, atmospheric cinematography, and strong performances by the cast, U-Turn offers a thrilling cinematic experience that will leave audiences guessing until the very end.
Final Thoughts
Zee5 offers an eclectic mix of Hindi cinema, each with its unique storytelling and memorable performances. Whether you are looking for a thought-provoking drama or an adrenaline-fueled thriller, you’ll find something to satisfy your cinematic cravings. Grab your popcorn, get comfortable, and let the magic of these Hindi films on Zee5 transport you to diverse worlds and narratives.
