In 2024, small-budget movies turned out to be the real game-changers in Indian cinema, proving that big hits don’t always need big budgets. The year was filled with unexpected surprises as films made with limited resources captured audiences’ imaginations, and it was the content—not the scale—that made the difference. These films weren’t just entertaining; they resonated with people on a deeper level, offering stories that stayed with them long after the credits rolled.
Munjya: A Horror-Comedy That Defied Expectations
Among the biggest surprises of the year was Munjya. Made for just Rs 30 crore, this horror-comedy managed to rake in a jaw-dropping Rs 132 crore worldwide. The film, starring Abhay Verma and Sharvari Wagh, follows Bitty, whose life is turned upside down when a mythical creature disrupts her quiet world. But what really struck a chord with audiences wasn’t just the spooky elements. Munjya balanced horror with humor and heart in a way that felt fresh and engaging. It wasn’t just about scares; it was about connecting with people emotionally. With impressive VFX and CGI work, the film showed that you don’t need a huge budget to create something that feels epic.
Laapataa Ladies: A Quiet Masterpiece With A Powerful Script
Then there was Laapataa Ladies, which was a completely different kind of success. With a shoestring budget of just Rs 10 crore, this satirical drama became one of the most talked-about films of the year. The film tells the story of two brides who go missing during their wedding procession in rural India, and it is a sharp commentary on society, gender roles, and expectations. Starring Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Ravi Kishan, the film’s screenplay and direction were its real strengths. It wasn’t about flashy visuals or star power; it was about telling a compelling, well-crafted story. It didn’t just do well at the box office, earning Rs 27.66 crore globally, but also became a Netflix sensation with 13.8 million views. Its selection as India’s official Oscar entry was a fitting recognition of the film’s impact.
Shaitaan: A Horror Film With Depth
Shaitaan, a horror thriller released during Maha Shivaratri, was another film that defied expectations. Made on a budget of Rs 40 crore, it grossed Rs 211 crore worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films in its genre. What made Shaitaan stand out was how it elevated the typical horror film by weaving in themes of divine justice and human resilience. Ajay Devgn and R Madhavan delivered strong performances that gave the film an emotional weight not usually found in the genre. It wasn’t just about the scares; it had something to say, and that’s what made it resonate so well with audiences. It’s now considered the second-highest-grossing Indian horror film of all time, proving that horror, when done right, can be much more than just a genre for thrills.
Hanu-Man: A Superhero Saga With Soul
Superhero films often come with a hefty price tag, but Hanu-Man changed that. Made on a budget of Rs 40 crore, this Telugu film surprised everyone by grossing over Rs 300 crore worldwide. Directed by Prasanth Varma and starring Teja Sajja, the movie tells the story of a young hero who gains divine powers and embarks on a journey to save his village. The film didn’t just rely on CGI or action sequences; it had heart, and that’s what made it stand out. It’s proof that a superhero film doesn’t need to be a big-budget extravaganza to capture the imagination of audiences. Hanu-Man’s success has already led to plans for a sequel, and it’s clear that Indian audiences are ready for more homegrown superhero stories.
Manjummel Boys: A Thriller That Spoke To Everyone
Manjummel Boys, a Malayalam-language survival thriller, also emerged as one of the year’s biggest success stories. Made for just Rs 20 crore, it went on to earn Rs 242 crore globally. The film follows a group of friends who embark on a mission to rescue one of their own from the treacherous Guna Caves. What made Manjummel Boys such a hit wasn’t just its gripping storyline or edge-of-your-seat tension, but its universal appeal. The film didn’t just attract Malayalam-speaking audiences; it resonated with viewers from all over India. Its success proved that a well-told, high-stakes story can transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Kill: A Gritty Thriller That Made Waves
Finally, Kill—a violent and intense thriller made on a budget of Rs 20 crore—showed that raw, gritty storytelling could go a long way. Despite its relatively small budget, the film grossed Rs 40 crore at the box office and became a hit. The film’s gripping plot and intense violence caught the attention of global audiences, even inspiring Hollywood to consider a similar project. Kill wasn’t just about shock value—it had depth, and it connected with audiences in a way that few films with similar themes have.
2024: The Year Of Content Over Cash
Looking back at 2024, it’s clear that small-budget films had a major impact on Indian cinema. These films weren’t just financially successful; they proved that with the right story, strong performances, and a bit of creativity, filmmakers can achieve big things on small budgets. As we move into 2025, it’s likely that the success of these films will inspire more filmmakers to focus on content over cost. If 2024 has taught us anything, it’s that when a story connects with audiences, the budget becomes just a number. It’s the content that truly makes a film unforgettable.
