#BingeRewind: Underrated Indian movies of 2023 that deserve the spotlight

They might not have gained box office records or publicity, but they sure received a place in our hearts. Here's looking back at some underrated Indian movies of 2023. 

India churns out the highest number of films in the world annually. And while a few make crores at the box office, many earn very little. Some, despite being creative, go totally unnoticed. In 2023, too, many such films were released. These movies might not have caught everyone's eye, but they are worthy enough to deserve a watch. From acting to storytelling to sound, these movies have been crafty and impressive but somehow failed to generate hype around themselves. As the year comes to an end, we take a look back at some underrated movies that deserve more attention than they have received. 

Also Read: #BingeRewind: 14 phenomenal performances in movies that left a major impact on our minds in 2023

Here you go!

Joram - Zee5

Joram is perhaps the best film that Hindi cinema brought to us in 2023. It is a heart-wrenching survival drama revolving around the tribal communities and their livelihoods being uprooted in the name of development. You will witness some of the finest acting in the movie from Manoj Bajpayee and Smita Tambe.

8 A.M. Metro 

A simplistic yet unique take on friendship, 8 A.M. Metro revolves around a man and a woman who coincidentally meet in a metro, and become the sweetest and safest parts of each others’ lives. Gulshan Devaiah and Saiyami Kher’s subtle yet powerful acting forms the crux of the film.

Afwaah - Netflix

Sudhir Mishra's Afwaah is an essential film that didn’t get its due. Again, this is a survival drama but it explains and counters the false propaganda surrounding fake news, love jihad, hate crimes, and more. 

Ghoomer - Zee5

While this film received mixed reviews, it was still deemed as a must-watch by those who watched it. A sports drama, the film narrates the story of a young cricketer, who loses her right hand in an accident but tries to reclaim her life. 

Bheed - Netflix

Like Afwaah, Bheed, too, is an essential watch. The film goes back to the COVID-19 era and shows the plight of many who wished to go back home during the nationwide lockdown. It earned very little at the box office but gained a lot of critical acclaim.

Dhak Dhak - Netflix 

While Dhak Dhak is currently being streamed on and promoted by Netflix, it still hasn’t gained the attention that it deserves. This is a quintessential girls-on-a-road-trip movie and a reality check at the same time.

Three of Us 

Revolving around a woman struggling with the onset of dementia, Three of Us poetically looks at life. It looks back at memories, love, loss, trauma, and more with a sensitive gaze. Moreover, the film stars Shefali Shah, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Swanand Kirkire in lead roles. While this film did not earn a lot, it can speak to your soul. 

Goldfish

While this film was originally released in 2022, Goldfish came to India in 2023, and it is such a beautiful film! It revolves around a mother suffering from dementia and a daughter returning to her roots. The film musically explores life’s intricacies. Deepti Naval and Kalki Koechlin’s acting also makes the film worth watching.

Pookkaalam - Disney+ Hotstar 

The Malayalam film Pookkaalam takes you on a journey with an old man who suddenly discovers that his whole life has been a lie. You might not have heard the film’s name, but it is a warm and fuzzy entertainer with a lot of colors and laughter. 

The Face of the Faceless 

The film is based on the life of Sr. Rani Maria and depicts her journey of standing up for the rights of tribal, Dalit, and poor people. Even though underrated, three songs from the film have entered the eligibility list for the Oscars for Best Original Songs 2024. 

Which movie would you like to add to the list? Tell us in the comment section!

This article is a part of our #LetsKetchup series that sums up the year that was from our perspective! Hope you enjoy reading this series this time of the year!