As 2024 approaches, it’s time to look back at the cinematic gems that left us amazed, thrilled, and moved. Telugu cinema truly outdid itself this year, offering a rich mix of genres catering to every movie lover. From heart-pounding thrillers and supernatural mysteries to epic sci-fi adventures and emotional dramas, these films weren’t just blockbusters—they were experiences. With fans and critics raving, we’ve rounded up the top 5 Telugu movies of 2024 based on IMDb ratings (with over 5,000 votes each). Let’s dive into the stories that defined the year in Telugu cinema!
1. Sabari – IMDb: 8.6
If there’s one movie that has left audiences speechless this year, it’s Sabari. This action thriller, directed by newcomer Anilkatz, tells the heart-pounding story of a single mother who will go to any length to protect her daughter. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar delivers a stellar performance as Sabari, seamlessly blending strength and vulnerability.
The film’s intense narrative keeps you hooked as Sabari confronts her haunting past and faces off against formidable foes to ensure her child’s safety. With a tight script, gripping twists, and memorable characters, Sabari is easily one of the finest Telugu films this year.
2. Kalinga – IMDb: 8.2
Love a good mystery with a touch of the supernatural? Then Kalinga is right up your alley. Set in a remote village shrouded in fear and eerie happenings, this film follows Lingam (played by Dhruva Vaayu), an orphan whose life turns chaotic after he falls in love.
What starts as a simple love story quickly spirals into a thrilling hunt for answers as Lingam discovers the dark secrets plaguing his village.
Directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Dhruva Vaayu, Kalinga offers a blend of spine-chilling suspense and heart. Though some twists are predictable, the film’s atmospheric storytelling and haunting visuals more than make up for it. It’s the kind of movie that keeps you on edge till the very end.
3. Lucky Bhaskar – IMDb: 8.1
Lucky Bhaskar is one of those films that hits you with its relatability and drama while keeping you entertained with clever twists. Starring Dulquer Salmaan in the titular role, this period crime drama is about a struggling middle-class man who turns to financial scams to provide for his family.
Directed by Venky Atluri, the film stands out with its engaging storytelling, which constantly throws surprises your way. Dulquer’s performance is the highlight—he flawlessly shifts between being a desperate commoner and a scheming mastermind. Add to that some heartfelt family moments, and you have a film that strikes the perfect balance between emotions and thrills. Definitely a movie worth watching with a bowl of popcorn!
4. Hanu-Man – IMDb: 7.8
Superhero fans, this one’s for you! Hanu-Man combines Indian mythology with an epic superhero origin story, and the result is a visual spectacle. Directed by Prasanth Varma, the film takes us to the fictional village of Anjanadri, where an ordinary guy named Hanumanthu (played by Teja Sajja) stumbles upon a mystical gem that gives him godlike powers. What follows is an action-packed ride as Hanumanthu steps up to protect his people and face off against a powerful antagonist.
With a stellar supporting cast and jaw-dropping visuals, Hanu-Man isn’t just a one of the best Telugu movies of 2024 —it’s the start of an exciting new cinematic universe. If you’re into superhero stories with a cultural twist, this is a must-watch!
5. Kalki 2898-AD – IMDb: 7.0
This is not just one of the best Telugu movies of 2024, but also a standout reimagining of mythology set against a futuristic backdrop.
Imagine mythology meeting a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world—that’s Kalki 2898-AD in a nutshell. Directed by Nag Ashwin, this ambitious sci-fi epic stars some of the biggest names in Indian cinema, including Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, and Deepika Padukone. The story follows Ashwatthama, cursed with immortality, as he protects a woman carrying the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu in a dystopian future.
Also, Read –Â Kalki 2898 AD (2024) Ending Explained
The film is packed with stunning visuals, intense action sequences, and a deep, thought-provoking narrative inspired by Hindu scriptures. While its experimental nature received mixed reviews, there’s no denying that Kalki 2898-AD is a bold step forward for Telugu cinema, pushing boundaries like never before.
