Indian 2, the much-awaited sequel to the 1996 cult classic, has finally released in theaters on July 12, 2024. Directed by S. Shankar and starring the legendary Kamal Haasan, this film marks the return of Senapathy, a vigilante freedom fighter. The story picks up years after the original, with Senapathy emerging from the shadows to combat corruption once again.
Featuring a star-studded cast, including Siddharth as Chitra Varadharajan, Indian 2 promises intense action and a deep dive into political and vigilante justice themes. As Kamal Haasan aptly put it, “Corruption still being rampant is the reason Indian thatha’s return is being welcomed after all these years.”
If you enjoyed Indian 2, here is a list of movies with similar themes and compelling storylines.
Indian
The original Indian film, directed by S. Shankar, also features Kamal Haasan in a dual role. The story revolves around Senapathy, a veteran freedom fighter who becomes a vigilante, punishing corrupt officials. The film’s strong anti-corruption message and Kamal Haasan’s impactful performance made it a critical and commercial success. The movie’s gripping storyline and action sequences set a high standard for political thrillers in Indian cinema.
Rang De Basanti
Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Rang De Basanti is a modern classic. It tells the story of a group of friends and their transformation from carefree individuals into politically awakened citizens. Their lives changed after they acted in a documentary about Indian freedom fighters.
Moreover, the film draws parallels between historical and contemporary struggles, making it a thought-provoking watch. Its portrayal of youth activism and the fight against corruption resonates deeply with the themes in Indian 2.
Lakshya
Lakshya, directed by Farhan Akhtar, follows the journey of Karan Shergill, a directionless young man who finds purpose in life after joining the Indian Army. The film captures his transformation from a carefree individual to a dedicated soldier, along with iconic background music. With Hrithik Roshan in the lead role, Lakshya combines personal growth with a sense of duty towards the nation, echoing the themes of patriotism and self-discovery seen in Indian 2.
Sarfarosh
John Matthew Matthan’s Sarfarosh is the gripping story of an honest police officer, played by Aamir Khan, who takes on the mission to thwart cross-border terrorism. The film showcases law enforcement’s challenges in dealing with terrorism and corruption. Its intense narrative and strong performances make it a standout film that addresses the persistent issues of national security and integrity, much like Indian 2.
Lagaan
Lagaan, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, is set in colonial India and tells the story of villagers who challenge British authorities to a cricket match to avoid paying heavy taxes. The film, featuring Aamir Khan, is not only a sports drama but also an iconic story about resistance and unity.
Omkara
Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, Omkara is an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello but set against the backdrop of political warfare in rural India. The film features Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, and Kareena Kapoor Khan in cult classic roles. Moreover, Omkara explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, and political intrigue, making it a compelling watch for those who appreciate intense, character-driven dramas. Its exploration of power and corruption parallels the storyline of Indian 2.
Jawan
Atlee’s latest directorial, Jawan, features Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role. The film combines action, drama, and a strong social message about the fight against corruption and injustice. With high-octane action sequences and a gripping storyline, Jawan resonates with the themes of vigilante justice and societal change seen in Indian 2. After all, its portrayal of a protagonist who stands up against wrongdoing makes it a must-watch for fans of this genre.
All in all, these movies, like Indian 2, offer gripping and iconic storylines that tackle corruption, societal issues, and the quest for justice.
