While Hollywood dominates the sci-fi and fantasy genre, Bollywood and South cinema has also carved its own niche with unique, imaginative, and larger-than-life storytelling. From alien friendships to AI villains, from superheroes to futuristic worlds, Bollywood and regional Indian films have taken audiences on thrilling sci-fi and fantasy adventures. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic Indian sci-fi and fantasy movies that redefined the genre!
Enthiran (2010) & 2.0 (2018)
Tamil cinema entered the sci-fi space in a grand way with Enthiran (Robot), directed by S. Shankar. Featuring Rajinikanth as Dr. Vaseegaran and his humanoid robot Chitti, the film showcased AI’s potential and dangers, making it one of the most ambitious Indian sci-fi films of its time.
The sequel, 2.0, took the franchise to new heights with enhanced VFX and an eco-conscious theme. With Akshay Kumar as the antagonist, the film addressed the harmful effects of mobile radiation on birds while delivering thrilling action sequences.
Ra.One (2011)
Shah Rukh Khan’s ambitious sci-fi project, Ra.One, was a mix of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and superhero elements. Although it received mixed reviews, it was one of Bollywood’s boldest attempts at large-scale sci-fi, with cutting-edge CGI and a storyline involving a video game villain coming to life.
Mr. India (1987)
Long before modern CGI, Mr. India became a timeless classic with its inventive use of invisibility. Directed by Shekhar Kapur, the film starred Anil Kapoor as a common man who finds a device that makes him invisible. The film’s most iconic aspect was Amrish Puri’s portrayal of the villain Mogambo, whose catchphrase “Mogambo khush hua” is legendary in Indian cinema.
Koi… Mil Gaya (2003)
Directed by Rakesh Roshan, Koi… Mil Gaya introduced Indian audiences to an emotional sci-fi story with a heartwarming narrative. The film follows Rohit (Hrithik Roshan), a developmentally challenged young man who befriends an alien named Jadoo. With its mix of extraterrestrial themes and human emotions, the film became a massive success and laid the groundwork for India’s superhero franchise, Krrish.
Krrish Series (2006 & 2013)
Building upon the success of Koi… Mil Gaya, Rakesh Roshan expanded the universe with Krrish. The sequel turned Rohit’s son, Krishna, into a full-fledged superhero, making Krrish India’s answer to Superman and Spider-Man. With high-energy action sequences, emotional depth, and impressive visual effects, the franchise became a landmark in Indian sci-fi cinema.
Cargo (2019)
Unlike mainstream sci-fi films, Cargo explored afterlife themes in a spaceship setting. Directed by Arati Kadav, this low-budget yet thought-provoking film delved into existential questions while presenting a unique Indian take on space travel and reincarnation.
Tarzan: The Wonder Car (2004)
Blending fantasy, supernatural elements, and sci-fi, Tarzan: The Wonder Car revolved around a sentient, self-driving car possessed by a murdered inventor’s spirit. While not a traditional sci-fi movie, it incorporated futuristic automotive technology in an engaging Bollywood-style revenge drama.
Love Story 2050 (2008)
Love Story 2050 attempted to blend time travel with romance, taking audiences on a journey from present-day Mumbai to a futuristic 2050. Starring Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra, the film showcased a world filled with flying cars, humanoid robots, and neon-lit skyscrapers.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]