Interested in discovering the magic of Telugu cinema but unsure where to begin? You’re not alone. Tollywood has produced some of the most powerful, emotional, and visually spectacular films in Indian cinema history.
This guide features the must-watch Telugu movies of all time, ranging from epic action blockbusters to biopics, romantic dramas, and cultural masterpieces. Whether you’re new to Tollywood or a longtime fan revisiting iconic titles, these handpicked Telugu classics and modern hits are essential viewing.
Why Telugu Cinema Deserves Your Attention
Telugu cinema, often referred to as Tollywood, combines emotional depth, innovative storytelling, and visual spectacle in a way few industries can. These films are not only massive regional hits but have also found critical acclaim and devoted fans worldwide.
With genres spanning from historical fantasy and revenge thrillers to heartwarming biopics and family dramas, top Telugu movies appeal to a broad audience.
Each of these Telugu films has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and global audiences. These summaries are spoiler-free and crafted to give you just enough context to get excited.
1. Baahubali: The Beginning (2015)
Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Where to Watch: Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar
Plot:
A young man discovers his connection to a lost kingdom and finds himself caught in a legacy of power and betrayal. With majestic visuals, larger-than-life characters, and groundbreaking production design, this film redefined Indian cinema’s visual storytelling. Baahubali is not just a movie, it is a cinematic universe that introduced Tollywood to global audiences.
2. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
Cast: Prabhas, Anushka Shetty, Rana Daggubati
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Where to Watch: Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar
Plot:
Continuing the epic saga, this sequel reveals the hidden truths behind betrayal and rightful succession. The film masterfully balances emotion, drama, and action with spectacular visual storytelling. With one of the most iconic reveals in Indian cinema history, it solidified Baahubali’s place as a Tollywood masterpiece.
3. RRR (2022)
Cast: Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Alia Bhatt
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Where to Watch: Netflix, ZEE5
Plot:
Set in pre-independence India, two revolutionary leaders forge an intense friendship while fighting against colonial oppression. The film blends myth, history, and fantasy into an electrifying action epic with spectacular set pieces and emotional weight. RRR is a Tollywood triumph that resonated globally, celebrated for its explosive energy and deep themes of brotherhood and sacrifice.
4. Maari (2015)
Cast: Dhanush, Kajal Aggarwal, Vijay Yesudas
Director: Balaji Mohan
Where to Watch: ZEE5, YouTube (Dubbed Version)
Plot:
Maari is a colorful and quirky local rowdy who rules his neighborhood with a mix of charm and menace. When a new cop arrives determined to take him down, Maari finds himself facing not only the law but also his own sense of justice. With punchy dialogues, peppy music, and Dhanush’s stylish performance, Maari delivers mass entertainment with a fun, over-the-top twist.
5. Magadheera (2009)
Cast: Ram Charan, Kajal Aggarwal
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Where to Watch: YouTube, MX Player
Plot:
A warrior from a bygone era is reincarnated in the present day to finish a love story and fulfill his destiny. This romantic action fantasy blends historical grandeur with intense battle sequences and emotional themes of loyalty and fate. Magadheera’s visuals and storytelling helped reshape the landscape of commercial Telugu cinema.
6. Eega (2012)
Cast: Nani, Sudeep, Samantha
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar, YouTube
Plot:
A man is murdered and reincarnated as a housefly who seeks revenge on his killer. Despite its quirky concept, the film is emotionally grounded, visually inventive, and delivers edge-of-your-seat thrills. Eega is a brilliant example of how Tollywood embraces originality and turns it into cinematic gold.
7. Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020)
Cast: Allu Arjun, Pooja Hegde
Director: Trivikram Srinivas
Where to Watch: Netflix
Plot:
A spirited young man discovers he was switched at birth and belongs to a wealthy family. This family entertainer combines comedy, romance, and powerful music with energetic performances. Allu Arjun’s charismatic role and the catchy soundtrack make it a feel-good Telugu blockbuster with wide appeal.
8. Arjun Reddy (2017)
Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Shalini Pandey
Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Plot:
A talented but self-destructive surgeon spirals out of control after a failed relationship. Bold, raw, and emotionally intense, the film broke traditional storytelling molds in Tollywood. Arjun Reddy sparked national debate and established Vijay Deverakonda as a powerful new voice in Indian cinema.
9. Mahanati (2018)
Cast: Keerthy Suresh, Dulquer Salmaan
Director: Nag Ashwin
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Plot:
This poignant biopic chronicles the life of legendary actress Savitri, exploring her meteoric rise, personal turmoil, and enduring legacy. With stunning performances and attention to period detail, Mahanati is both a moving tribute and an important cinematic document. Keerthy Suresh’s performance was widely praised and earned national acclaim.
10. Jersey (2019)
Cast: Nani, Shraddha Srinath
Director: Gowtam Tinnanuri
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Plot:
A former cricketer attempts a comeback in his mid-30s to fulfill his son’s dream. The film beautifully captures themes of perseverance, failure, and fatherhood. Jersey is emotionally resonant and ranks among the most touching Telugu movies of the modern era.
Where to Watch Telugu Movies for Free
| Platform | Legal Free Access |
|---|---|
| YouTube | Sankarabharanam, Eega, Magadheera |
| MX Player | Magadheera |
| Disney+ Hotstar | Jersey, Eega, Baahubali series |
| Netflix | Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, Baahubali, RRR |
| Amazon Prime | Arjun Reddy, Mahanati |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring Telugu cinema for the first time or revisiting beloved classics, this list of best Telugu films captures the essence of Tollywood. From the grandeur of Baahubali and RRR to emotionally rich dramas like Jersey and Mahanati, these films reflect the depth and diversity of Telugu storytelling.
Each movie offers something special, be it innovation, intensity, or inspiration. So grab your popcorn, pick a platform, and immerse yourself in the magic of Tollywood today.