10 Must-Watch Indian Movies Released in 2022

The Indian film industry has always been renowned for its diverse range of movies, and the year 2022 is no exception. From action-packed thrillers to heart-warming dramas, the Indian cinema has a lot to offer. Here are ten Indian movies from 2022 that are a must-watch for all movie enthusiasts.

1. Vikram

Vikram, the 2022 Indian Tamil-language film, is a must-watch for all action and thriller fans. Directed by the talented Lokesh Kanagaraj and produced by Kamal Haasan, the film features an all-star cast including Vijay Sethupathi, Fahadh Faasil, Narain, Kalidas Jayaram and Chemban Vinod Jose.

The film is a spiritual successor to the 1986 film of the same name and serves as the second installment in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe, following Kaithi (2019). The pre-production work for the film began in early 2021 and the principal photography took place across various locations in Tamil Nadu.

The soundtrack and score for the film are composed by the talented Anirudh Ravichander and the cinematography is handled by Girish Gangadharan with editing done by Philomin Raj. The film was released on 3 June 2022 and received widespread critical acclaim. It broke several records and grossed over ₹432.5–500 crore (US$54–63 million) making it the second highest-grossing Tamil film of 2022.

With its gripping story, breathtaking action sequences, and standout performances from the cast, Vikram is a must-watch film that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Vikram's original scores have become an instant hit with audiences and music lovers alike. Composed by the talented Anirudh Ravichander, the soundtrack has been praised for its powerful and emotional themes, rich instrumentation, and innovative musical arrangements. With its unique blend of traditional Indian musical elements and contemporary sounds, the soundtrack of Vikram has created a new standard for Indian film music.

One of the standout soundtrack is the title track "Vikram Theme". This high-energy, percussive track sets the tone for the film and has been praised for its upbeat and energetic vibe. With its driving rhythm and catchy melody, the title track has become an instant classic and a must-listen for fans of Indian film music.

In addition to the soundtrack, the film's score has also been highly praised, with Anirudh Ravichander's musical arrangements perfectly capturing the mood and tension of the film's many action-packed scenes. From high-stakes chases and intense shootouts to quiet moments of introspection, the score of Vikram elevates the film to a whole new level of intensity and excitement.

With its cult following, the music of Vikram has become a timeless classic, cementing its place in the annals of Indian film music history. Whether you're a fan of Indian film music or just looking for an exciting new soundtrack to enjoy, Vikram is an absolute must-listen.

The home media distribution rights of Vikram were sold to Star India Network for ₹112 crore (US$14 million) in February 2022. It was confirmed that the satellite rights of the film have been sold to Star Vijay. Vikram was available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from July 8, 2022, in Tamil and dubbed versions of Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam and Kannada. Two months later, on September 13, 2022, the film began streaming on ZEE5 in all five languages.

Following the tremendous success of Vikram, Kamal Haasan hinted at the possibility of a sequel in an interview with Pinkvilla. The film has generated widespread interest and reports have also emerged about a potential third installment in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). With its impressive cast, compelling storyline, and outstanding critical reception, fans are eagerly anticipating the possibility of more adventures in the Vikram franchise.

2. RRR (2022)

RRR (2022) is a visually stunning action-adventure movie that tells a fictional tale about two legendary revolutionaries. With a runtime of 187 minutes, the film provides ample time to delve into the story and characters. The film has received positive reviews from both audiences and critics.

The film is directed by S.S. Rajamouli, who is known for delivering high-quality, visually stunning movies that are both entertaining and emotionally engaging. The all-star cast, featuring N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan Teja, Ajay Devgn, and Alia Bhatt, adds to the excitement for the film. If you're a fan of action-adventure movies, historical fiction, or drama, "RRR (2022)" is a movie that you should definitely check out.

The film revolves around fictional versions of two Indian revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju (Charan) and Komaram Bheem (Rama Rao), who meet, become friends, and fight against the British Raj. Rajamouli was inspired to tell their stories after learning about the coincidences of their lives and imagining what would have happened if they had met. The film was in production from November 2018 to August 2021, with filming taking place across India and a few sequences shot in Ukraine and Bulgaria.

RRR was made on a budget of ₹550 crore ($72 million), making it the most expensive Indian film to date. The film was initially scheduled for a theatrical release in July 2020, but was postponed several times due to production delays and the COVID pandemic. When it was finally released on 25 March 2022, it broke box office records, earning ₹240 crore (US$30 million) worldwide on its opening day and grossing over ₹415 crore (US$52 million) in its home market of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

RRR received international acclaim for its direction, writing, performances, soundtrack, action sequences, cinematography, editing, and visual effects. The film was considered one of the ten best films of the year by the National Board of Review and became the third Indian film and first Telugu film to receive nominations at the Golden Globe Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film. The film's song "Naatu Naatu" won Best Original Song at the Golden Globe Awards and was nominated for Best Original Song at the 95th Academy Awards, making it the first Indian song to be nominated for the Oscars. RRR also won Best Foreign Language Film and the Best Song award at the 28th Critics' Choice Awards.

RRR was available for streaming on NetFlix

3. K.G.F: Chapter 2 (2022)

K.G.F: Chapter 2 (2022) is an action-packed, crime drama that takes place in the violent and dangerous Kolar Gold Fields. With a runtime of 168 minutes, the film provides a thrilling and intense experience that is sure to keep the audience engaged. The movie has received positive reviews and has been well-received by audiences.

The film is directed by Prashanth Neel and stars Yash, Sanjay Dutt, Raveena Tandon, and Srinidhi Shetty. Yash plays the lead character, Rocky, who is feared by his enemies and respected by his allies. The government, however, sees him as a threat to law and order. As Rocky battles threats from all sides, he must fight for unchallenged supremacy. If you're a fan of action-packed crime dramas, this movie might be just what you're looking for!

The film revolves around mercenary Rocky, who after becoming the ruler of the Kolar Gold Fields, must maintain his rule over his adversaries, government officials, and his own past. The film features an ensemble cast and is the most expensive Kannada film ever made, with a budget of ₹100 crore. The film's cinematography is handled by Bhuvan Gowda and the music score and songs are composed by Ravi Basrur.

K.G.F: Chapter 2 was released on 14 April 2022 in Kannada and also dubbed in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam languages. It was the first Kannada film to release in IMAX and received positive reviews from critics, who praised the direction, action sequences, cinematography, and performances of the actors. The film recorded the second highest-opening day in India and set domestic opening day records in Kannada, Hindi, and Malayalam. With earnings of ₹1,200−1,250 crore globally, the film became the fourth highest-grossing Indian film worldwide and the second highest-grossing film in India in 2022.

K.G.F: Chapter 2 is an epic period action film that offers a mix of compelling characters, thrilling action sequences, and a well-crafted story. The film is a testament to the director's vision and the actors' performances, and is sure to leave an impression on audiences for years to come.

KGF 2 was available for streaming on Amazon Prime

4. Sita Ramam (2022)

Sita Ramam (2022) is a dramatic, action-packed movie with a touch of mystery. The film follows Lieutenant Ram, an orphan soldier whose life is changed after he meets and falls in love with a girl named Sita. With a runtime of 163 minutes, the film provides enough time to delve into the characters and story, while still maintaining an exciting pace. The movie has received very positive reviews from audiences and critics alike.

The film is directed by Hanu Raghavapudi and stars Dulquer Salmaan, Mrunal Thakur, Rashmika Mandanna, and Sumanth. When Lieutenant Ram returns to his camp in Kashmir, he is caught in jail and unable to reach Sita. This adds a layer of mystery to the story and increases the drama. If you're a fan of action movies with a romantic twist, "Sita Ramam (2022)" might be just what you're looking for.

Set in 1964, the film follows Lieutenant Ram, an orphaned army officer serving at the Kashmir border. He receives anonymous love letters from Sita Mahalakshmi and embarks on a mission to find her and propose his love. The film showcases Ram's journey of finding Sita and the challenges he faces along the way.

Principal photography for Sita Ramam commenced in April 2021 and concluded in April 2022. The film was shot in various locations including Hyderabad, Kashmir, and Russia, providing a stunning backdrop for the film's story. The music was composed by Vishal Chandrasekhar, while cinematography was handled by P. S. Vinod and Shreyaas Krishna. Editing was done by Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao, who ensured that the film was trimmed to perfection.

Sita Ramam was released theatrically on 5 August 2022 and received widespread critical acclaim. The direction, story, screenplay, dialogues, soundtrack, and performances of the cast were praised by audiences and critics alike. The film emerged as a major commercial success, grossing ₹105 crore at the box office, making it the ninth highest-grossing Telugu film of 2022.

Sita Ramam is a film that tugs at the heartstrings and is a testament to the power of love and the lengths people will go to find it.

Sita Ramam was available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar

5. Jana Gana Mana (2022)

Jana Gana Mana (2022) is a crime drama thriller film with a runtime of 162 minutes. With a 8.3 rating, the movie has received positive reviews from audiences and critics, suggesting that it is an engaging and well-made film.

The film is directed by Dijo Jose Antony and stars Prithviraj Sukumaran as a cop who launches an investigation into a brutal murder of a college professor. Meanwhile, a lawyer, played by Mamta Mohandas, seeks justice in the courtroom. As the investigation and trial progress, the film interweaves the two narratives, creating a gripping and thought-provoking story. If you're a fan of crime dramas with a strong emphasis on legal proceedings, "Jana Gana Mana (2022)" might be the film for you.

The film explores the legal system and follows a group of lawyers who are fighting for justice in a high-stakes case. With its well-crafted narrative, powerful performances, and intricate attention to technical details, Jana Gana Mana has become one of the most talked-about films of the year.

Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its storytelling, casting, and technical aspects. The film has received positive reviews from the media and has been widely appreciated for its portrayal of the legal system, and its ability to keep audiences engaged and entertained from start to finish.

Jana Gana Mana is a must-watch for fans of legal thrillers, and for anyone who appreciates well-crafted, engaging stories and powerful performances. With its success both commercially and critically, it is clear that Jana Gana Mana is one of the standout films of the year and a true testament to the talent and creativity of its director and cast.

Jana Gana Mana was available for streaming on NetFlix

6. Kantara (2022)

Kantara (2022) is an action-packed adventure drama that explores the culture of Kambala and Bhootha Kola. With a runtime of 148 minutes, the film provides a thrilling and captivating experience that is sure to keep the audience engaged. The movie has received positive reviews from both audiences and critics.

The film is directed by Rishab Shetty, who also stars in the lead role of Shiva, a rebel who defends his village and nature against the evil forces that threaten it. The death of someone close to him leads to a war between the villagers and these evil forces. Will Shiva be able to regain peace in the village? If you're a fan of action-adventure movies with a cultural twist, "Kantara (2022)" might be just what you're looking for.

The cinematography of Kantara was handled by Arvind S. Kashyap, with music composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath and the action sequences were choreographed by action director Vikram More. The production design was handled by Dharani Gange Putra, who made his debut in the film industry with this movie.

Kantara was released on 30 September 2022 and received widespread critical acclaim. Critics praised the cast performances, especially those of Rishab Shetty and Kishore, as well as the direction, writing, production design, cinematography, and musical score. The proper showcasing of the Bhoota Kola, a traditional form of worship in the Tulunadu region of Karnataka, was also appreciated by critics.

The film was a massive commercial success, becoming the second highest-grossing Kannada film of all time and the second highest-grossing Kannada film of 2022. This movie is an example of how a well-made film can both entertain the audiences and earn critical recognition.

Kantara was available for streaming on Amazon Prime

7. 777 Charlie (2022)

777 Charlie (2022) is a heartwarming adventure-comedy-drama film with a runtime of 136 minutes. The movie has received highly positive reviews from audiences and critics, suggesting that it is a charming and touching film.

The film is directed by Kiranraj K and stars Rakshit Shetty as Dharma, a man who is stuck in a rut with his negative and lonely lifestyle. His life takes a turn for the better when he adopts a pup named Charlie, who helps him rediscover the joys of life. The film follows the journey of these two characters as they embark on a series of adventures, learning important lessons about friendship, love, and life along the way. If you're a fan of heartwarming tales about the bond between humans and animals, "777 Charlie (2022)" might be the film for you.

777 Charlie was available for streaming on Amazon Prime

8. Hridayam (2022)

Hridayam (2022) is a heartwarming drama film with musical elements. With a runtime of 172 minutes, the film provides ample time to explore the emotional journey of the main character, Arun. The movie has received positive reviews from audiences and critics.

The film is directed by Vineeth Sreenivasan and stars Pranav Mohanlal as Arun, a carefree bachelor in engineering college who matures through various phases of life. The movie follows Arun as he experiences love, loss, and growth, painting a picture of what it means to truly live life to the fullest. If you're a fan of dramatic films with musical elements and a strong emotional narrative, "Hridayam (2022)" might be just what you're looking for.

Hridayam was available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar

9. Thiruchitrambalam (2022)

Thiruchitrambalam (2022) is a musical comedy-drama film directed by Mithran Jawahar and stars Dhanush, Nithya Menen, Bharathiraja, and Prakash Raj. The film has a runtime of 131 minutes.

The film revolves around the character of Thiruchitrambalam, who lives with his father and grandfather. He blames his father for the loss of his mother and sister and is not on good terms with his grandfather. Meanwhile, Thiruchitrambalam's love life is not very successful.

As the story progresses, the audience is taken on a journey of family dynamics and relationships, as well as the challenges and triumphs of love. With a blend of comedy and drama, Thiruchitrambalam is a heartwarming film that explores the complexities of family and romantic relationships.

The film's talented cast, combined with its engaging story and musical elements, make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. So if you're in the mood for a lighthearted and entertaining film, Thiruchitrambalam is definitely worth checking out.

Thiruchitrambalam was available for streaming on SunNXT

10. Nna, Thaan Case Kodu

Nna, Thaan Case Kodu is a 2022 Indian film in the genres of comedy, crime, and drama. Directed by Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval, the film stars Kunchacko Boban as a reformed thief who is forced to fight for justice after an innocent act to defend himself puts him at odds with the powerful members of society. Alongside Boban, the film features performances by Gayathrie, Rajesh Madhavan, and Unnimaya Prasad. With a runtime of 138 minutes, "Nna, Thaan Case Kodu" is a lighthearted crime drama that promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The story revolves around Kozhummal Rajeevan, a reformed thief who finds himself in a legal battle when an innocent act to defend himself leads him to cross paths with the powerful and influential members of society. With the help of his wit and courage, Rajeevan fights for justice in a world where the rich and powerful hold all the cards.

The film's music was composed by Dawn Vincent, adding to the film's overall appeal. The film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, who praised its humor, screenplay, direction and performance. Nna Thaan Case Kodu emerged as a commercial success at the box office and solidified its place as a well-received film in the Malayalam industry.

Nna, Thaan Case Kodu was available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar