Top 8 Bollywood Blockbusters in 2023: A Year of Action, Romance, and South Indian Dominance
2023 was a rollercoaster ride for Bollywood. With theatres finally reopening their doors after the pandemic, audiences were eager to return to the larger-than-life experience of Hindi cinema. The year saw a diverse range of films hit the silver screen, from high-octane action thrillers to heartwarming romances and thought-provoking dramas. While some established stars continued to dominate the box office, the year also witnessed a refreshing surge from South Indian cinema, captivating audiences nationwide.
Here’s a closer look at the Top 8 Bollywood Blockbusters in 2023, combining box office success with critical acclaim:
Bollywood Blockbusters in 2023
1. Jawan (Action Thriller):
Starring the ever-popular Shah Rukh Khan, Jawan took the box office by storm upon its release in September. Directed by Atlee Kumar, the film offered a high-dose of action and thrills, set against the backdrop of a complex espionage plot. Jawan smashed numerous box office records, emerging as the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023 with a worldwide collection exceeding ₹1,148 crore (US$140 million). The film received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its action sequences and Khan’s performance, but criticism for its predictable plot.
2. Pathaan (Action Thriller):
Another high-octane action thriller, Pathaan, starring the iconic duo of Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, released in January and set the box office on fire. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film became the fastest Hindi film to reach the ₹300 crore mark domestically. Praised for its slick action sequences, stylish visuals, and the sizzling chemistry between the lead pair, Pathaan grossed over ₹1,050 crore (US$130 million) worldwide, solidifying its position as the second-highest-grossing Hindi film of the year.
3. Animal (Action Thriller):
Directed by Sandeep Vanga, Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, took the third spot with a worldwide collection exceeding ₹917.82 crore (US$110 million). This action drama generated significant pre-release buzz due to its high production value, Ranbir Kapoor’s intense performance, and the fresh pairing with South Indian actress Rashmika Mandanna. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film promises a thrilling cinematic experience.
4. Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire (Action Thriller):
Marking the highly anticipated return of Prabhas to the big screen after the record-breaking Baahubali series, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire garnered immense pre-release hype. Directed by Prashanth Neel, known for the K.G.F. franchise, the film is an action-packed saga with Prabhas leading the charge. While released in December, the first part of the two-part series managed to rake in over ₹705 crore (US$88 million – ₹715 crore [US$90 million]) worldwide, leaving audiences eagerly waiting for the next installment.
5. Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (Romantic Comedy):
Bringing together the evergreen charm of veteran actors Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani offered a welcome dose of romance amidst the action-heavy releases. Directed by Karan Johar, the film promised a classic Bollywood love story with a modern twist. Although official box office figures are yet to be consolidated, the film received positive reviews for its vibrant visuals, playful performances, and nostalgic feel, drawing audiences to the theatres.
6. Leo (Tamil Action Thriller):
While not technically a Bollywood film, Leo, starring the South Indian superstar Vijay, deserves a mention due to its immense popularity across India. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the film broke box office records for Tamil films, collecting over ₹600 crore worldwide. The high-octane action thriller captivated audiences with its intense plot, Vijay’s charismatic performance and the promise of a possible cinematic universe.
7. Tiger 3 (Action Thriller):
The fifth installment in the popular YRF Spy Universe, Tiger 3, starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, released in November 2023 and was met with a positive response from fans. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, the film continued the thrilling adventures of the iconic Tiger character, grossing a respectable amount at the box office, solidifying the franchise’s hold on audiences.
8. Dunki (Action Comedy):
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, Dunki, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu, had generated significant buzz.