Courtroom dramas hold a distinct place in Bollywood, captivating audiences with their high-stakes narratives, emotional intensity, and moral complexities. These films offer a deep dive into the Indian legal system, often exposing its flaws, highlighting societal prejudices, and challenging viewers to think critically about justice and truth. Here’s a closer look at some of the most compelling courtroom films in Indian cinema — where every argument matters and every verdict leaves a mark.
Pink
Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal of a retired lawyer defending three young women falsely accused of a crime turned Pink into more than just a film — it became a movement. With sharp writing and a razor-focused courtroom narrative, the film confronts deep-rooted patriarchal mindsets, particularly regarding women’s choices, clothing, and consent. Its hard-hitting line — “No means no” — redefined the conversation around consent in Indian society.
OMG 1 & 2
The OMG series brilliantly merges satire with courtroom drama to explore complex religious and societal questions. The first film centers on an atheist shopkeeper (Paresh Rawal) who sues God after his shop is destroyed in an earthquake. The sequel takes on the taboo topic of sex education in schools. With Akshay Kumar portraying a divine guide in both films, the courtroom becomes a space to challenge blind faith and promote rational thought — all with a dose of humor and heart.
Kesari Chapter 2
Taking the story beyond the battlefield, Kesari Chapter 2 shifts focus to a courtroom where historical wounds clash with contemporary legal battles over land and identity. The film examines how India’s colonial past continues to influence modern legal and cultural disputes, presenting powerful arguments from both sides. It’s a unique blend of history and courtroom intensity that resonates with national pride and introspection.
Jolly LLB Series
This much-loved franchise brings humor and heart to the courtroom. From Arshad Warsi’s underdog lawyer in the first film to Akshay Kumar’s morally conflicted advocate in the sequel, Jolly LLB explores how everyday people confront powerful institutions. While light in tone, the series digs into systemic corruption and the hurdles ordinary citizens face in seeking justice. With Jolly LLB 3 on the horizon, the franchise continues to evolve while staying rooted in its signature mix of wit and conscience.
Mulk
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Mulk is a deeply moving courtroom drama that delves into communal prejudice and national identity. When a Muslim family is wrongly implicated in a terrorism case, the courtroom becomes a battleground not just for legal vindication, but for acceptance and belonging. Rishi Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu deliver standout performances in this emotionally charged film that compels viewers to confront their own assumptions.
Section 375
Titled after the Indian Penal Code section on rape, this film presents a complex legal case involving a film director accused of sexual assault. With Akshaye Khanna and Richa Chadha facing off in court, the film explores how evidence, consent, and public perception intersect in real-life legal battles. It’s a sharp, thought-provoking narrative that raises tough questions about the justice system’s ability to fairly navigate sensitive, high-profile cases.
Court – State vs. Nobody
This National Award-winning indie film takes a raw, unfiltered look at the workings of India’s lower courts. Centered on an elderly folk singer accused of abetting a sanitation worker’s suicide through his protest songs, Court strips away the cinematic gloss to portray a sluggish, often dehumanizing legal system. Through its quiet, observational style, the film offers a powerful commentary on class, caste, and the mundane bureaucracy that defines everyday justice.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]