When you hear people talk about Indian cinema, one word usually jumps out— drama, and plenty of it. For many Filipinos, these films can feel oddly familiar. Like our own Pinoy movies and teleseryes, they embrace big emotions and aren’t shy about blending love, action, comedy, and music all into one story.
But what makes Indian cinema such a ride? For starters, it’s far more varied than most people think. Bollywood—home to Hindi-language blockbusters—may get most of the spotlight, but it’s only one part of a massive industry. There’s also Tollywood (Telugu), Pollywood (Punjabi), Kollywood (Tamil), and plenty more. Each has its own style, music, and storytelling traditions that bring something different to the screen.
If you’re not sure where to start, Lionsgate Play has a solid lineup of critically acclaimed films that show just how rich and diverse Indian cinema really is:
Welcome
This over-the-top Bollywood comedy blends romance, crime, and chaos into one irresistible package. Rajiv (Akshay Kumar) is a decent guy whose uncle is determined to find him a respectable wife—someone far removed from the criminal world. Things take a turn when Rajiv falls for Sanjana (Katrina Kaif), whose brother and his best friend just happen to be infamous gangsters on the lookout for a “proper” husband for her. What follows is a whirlwind of misunderstandings, slapstick, and fast-paced fun that’s cemented the film as a comedy classic.
Jab We Met
A beloved romantic comedy, Jab We Met tells the story of Aditya (Shahid Kapoor), a disillusioned businessman who meets Geet (Kareena Kapoor), a bubbly and outspoken Punjabi woman, during a train journey. After missing their ride, the two embark on a picturesque road trip to Geet’s hometown. Along the way, Aditya slowly finds himself healing—and falling for Geet—only to discover she’s determined to elope with someone else. With iconic musical numbers and heartfelt moments, it’s a film that captures the full spectrum of love’s joy and heartbreak.
Murmur
In this Tamil found-footage horror, a group of paranormal YouTubers ventures into a forest shrouded in ghostly legends. They’re never seen again, but their cameras—filled with chilling real-time footage—are recovered by the police. As the recordings unfold, the sinister truth of their disappearance comes to light. The film’s raw style and creeping dread make it a standout in the horror genre.
Golmaal: Fun Unlimited
Four mischievous friends Gopal (Ajay Devgn), Lucky (Tusshar Kapoor), Madhav (Arshad Warsi), and Laxman (Sharman Joshi) get kicked out of college for pulling one prank too many and end up hiding in the home of a blind elderly couple—pretending to be their long-lost grandson and his pals. Between dodging suspicion, chasing hidden treasure, and trying to charm the girl next door (Rimi Sen), the lies spiral out of control. Packed with slapstick comedy, witty exchanges, and absurd situations, this film is pure entertainment from start to finish.
Eleven
This Tamil-Telugu crime thriller follows ACP Aravindan as he unravels a string of murders targeting twins. As the case deepens, old secrets from a school tragedy resurface, blurring the line between victim and suspect. With atmospheric visuals and layered performances—especially Naveen Chandra in a gripping dual role—Eleven keeps the suspense tight until the last frame.
From lighthearted comedies to gripping thrillers, Lionsgate Play’s catalog offers a front-row seat to India’s many cinematic worlds. Time to hit play via PLDT Home, Smart and Cignal and see where the journey takes you.
