There’s something inherently captivating about Indian courtroom movies. The tension, the high-stakes arguments, and those pulse-raising moments when everything hinges on a final verdict—it’s no wonder these films have carved a niche in Indian cinema. While love triangles and melodrama often dominate the industry, courtroom dramas stand out by highlighting societal issues, corruption, and the human spirit’s relentless fight for justice.
Whether you’re a fan of intense legal battles or enjoy a good social commentary, the best Indian courtroom movies deliver both. They keep you glued to your seat while making you think long after the credits roll. If you haven’t already immersed yourself in this world of justice, here’s a list of the top 7 Indian courtroom movies that you absolutely can’t miss!
Best Indian Courtroom Movies
Pink
Starting strong with one of the most iconic courtroom films, Pink brings the conversation of consent to the forefront of Indian cinema. Directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, the movie revolves around three young women who find themselves on trial after defending themselves against harassment.
With Amitabh Bachchan’s fierce yet subtle portrayal of a retired lawyer who comes out of retirement to fight their case, the film gives a resounding message—“No means no.” The courtroom scenes, the intense cross-examinations, and the shifting societal perceptions make Pink more than just a film; it’s a movement. Honestly, if you haven’t watched Pink, are you even an Indian cinema fan?
Jai Bhim
If there’s one film that can leave you angry, emotional, and introspective all at once, it’s Jai Bhim. Directed by T.J. Gnanavel, this hard-hitting courtroom drama is based on a true story that delves into caste-based discrimination and police brutality. Suriya plays Advocate Chandru, who fights for justice for a tribal woman whose husband goes missing after being falsely accused of theft.
Jai Bhim is not just a courtroom drama; it’s a scathing critique of how the legal system often fails the marginalized. The film’s portrayal of relentless courtroom battles, combined with Suriya’s powerful performance, makes it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates films that challenge the status quo.
No One Killed Jessica
Some stories are too important to stay buried in news headlines. No One Killed Jessica brings to life the real-life murder of Jessica Lal and the subsequent legal battle that captured the nation’s attention. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the film stars Vidya Balan as Jessica’s sister Sabrina, who fights for justice after her sister’s murderer walks free.
Add in a firebrand journalist played by Rani Mukerji, and you’ve got yourself a gripping narrative that’s equal parts investigative drama and courtroom thriller. No One Killed Jessica is a film that doesn’t just point fingers at the corrupt—it raises questions about justice and who it really serves.
OMG 2
A sequel that raises the bar from its predecessor, OMG 2 dives deep into a subject often swept under the rug—sex education. Directed by Amit Rai, the film revolves around Kanti Sharan Mudgal, played by the talented Pankaj Tripathi, who takes legal action against the education system for not addressing sex education properly.
With Akshay Kumar reprising his role as a divine figure, OMG 2 keeps its courtroom scenes both witty and poignant. Tackling a socially taboo subject with humour, drama, and some seriously good performances, this film ensures you’re not just entertained but also walking away with food for thought.
Badla
With a plot full of twists and turns, Badla offers more than your average courtroom drama. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, this film stars Amitabh Bachchan as a lawyer trying to unravel a mystery involving a woman, played by Taapsee Pannu, accused of murder. What makes this movie stand out is its almost claustrophobic tension as the two characters engage in a verbal battle that keeps you guessing until the very end.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers mixed with courtroom tension, Badla will keep you hooked from start to finish. Just when you think you know where it’s headed, the film throws in another twist that will have you second-guessing everything.
Jolly LLB
Next on the list is a film that manages to blend humour, satire, and some serious commentary on the Indian legal system. Jolly LLB, directed by Subhash Kapoor, stars Arshad Warsi as a small-time lawyer who takes on a hit-and-run case involving the wealthy elite. With Boman Irani playing the formidable defense lawyer, the courtroom scenes are packed with clever banter and gripping arguments.
Jolly LLB shines a spotlight on the disparity between the rich and poor in the legal system, all while keeping a light, comedic tone. It’s no wonder this film was so successful that it spawned a sequel!
Shahid
Lastly, we have Shahid, a biographical drama that tells the real-life story of lawyer Shahid Azmi, who fought against the wrongful accusations of terrorism against innocent Muslims. Directed by Hansal Mehta and starring Rajkummar Rao, the film is a touching tribute to Azmi’s bravery and the risks he took for the sake of justice.
Shahid isn’t just a courtroom drama—it’s a moving portrayal of one man’s fight for human rights in the face of overwhelming adversity. Rajkummar Rao’s performance is nothing short of brilliant, earning him accolades and making Shahid a standout film in Indian cinema.