Niharika Khanna
For law students, understanding the complexities of the legal world extends beyond textbooks and case law. Legal dramas, courtroom movies, and web series provide a compelling and immersive way to explore various aspects of law, ethics, and justice. In this article, we bring you the Top 20 Indian movies and web series for a law student that every law student should watch. Whether you’re interested in courtroom dramas, legal thrillers, or movies based on real-life cases, this curated list features a variety of content available on platforms like Netflix, Prime Videos,Hotstar etc., and showcases some of the best Hindi web series for law students.
From gripping legal battles in Indian movies to engaging web series on lawyers and insightful courtroom dramas, these films and shows offer valuable lessons on advocacy, cross-examination, legal strategy, and the moral dilemmas faced by attorneys. For students looking to complement their legal studies with relevant and entertaining content, this list is a must-read. So, get ready to dive into the world of justice, argumentation, and legal intrigue through these must-watch titles.
WEB SERIES
- Mamla Legal Hai (2024)
Mamla Legal Hai is a captivating legal drama series that brings to light the everyday challenges of a small-town lawyer navigating through various legal cases. With its unique blend of humor and courtroom drama, the series highlights the intricacies of the Indian legal system, from property disputes to criminal cases, while portraying the legal battles in an engaging and relatable manner. The lead character’s journey through a web of moral dilemmas, judicial procedures, and client expectations showcases the reality of a lawyer’s life in India.
For law students, Mamla Legal Hai offers practical insights into handling civil and criminal cases, courtroom strategies, and the importance of ethics in legal practice. The show illustrates the complex relationships between clients, lawyers, and the judiciary, making it an essential watch for aspiring lawyers who wish to understand the profession beyond textbooks.
Available on: Netflix
Rating: 8/10 - Lalbazaar (2019)
Lalbazaar is a gripping crime thriller set in Kolkata, following the lives of police officers as they navigate the murky world of crime and justice. The series focuses on a special unit of the police force, tackling complex cases involving murder, corruption, and organized crime. While primarily a crime drama, Lalbazaar offers deep insights into the legal system, highlighting the interaction between law enforcement and the judiciary. It portrays how evidence is gathered, interpreted, and used in court to build strong cases, while also touching upon issues of police corruption and moral dilemmas.
For law students, Lalbazaar provides an important perspective on the investigation process and the legal framework that governs it. The series highlights key aspects of criminal law, including how evidence is presented in court, the role of law enforcement in legal proceedings, and the ethical challenges lawyers and police officers face.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 6.3/10 - The Great Indian Murder (2022)
The Great Indian Murder is a gripping crime thriller series, adapted from Vikas Swarup’s novel Six Suspects. The story revolves around the murder of Vicky Rai, a corrupt industrialist, at a high-profile party. What follows is a complex investigation that reveals multiple suspects, each with their own motives for wanting him dead. The series navigates through layers of political intrigue, corruption, and personal vendettas, portraying a chaotic yet fascinating depiction of the Indian criminal justice system.
For law students, this series offers valuable insights into the procedural aspects of criminal law, including investigation techniques, media influence, and how political pressure can skew justice. It also sheds light on how diverse socio-economic backgrounds influence legal proceedings in India. Watching The Great Indian Murder provides aspiring legal professionals with a broader understanding of the challenges in handling high-stakes murder cases, and the intersection of law, power, and politics.
Available on: Disney+ Hotstar
Rating: 6.7/10 - Naxalbari (2020)
Naxalbari is a Zee5 original series that delves into the complex issue of Naxalism in India. The story follows Special Task Force officer Raghav (Rajeev Khandelwal), who is assigned to investigate and suppress a growing Naxalite rebellion in a remote village. As Raghav digs deeper, he encounters the harsh realities of the socio-political landscape, where tribal exploitation, government corruption, and armed resistance collide. The series presents a gripping narrative of the insurgency, blending action with thought-provoking commentary on the roots of the conflict.
For law students, Naxalbari is essential viewing as it sheds light on the intersection of law, politics, and social justice. It explores the legal implications of insurgency, counter-terrorism measures, and human rights violations, offering a nuanced understanding of how the legal system operates in conflict zones. The series provides valuable insights into the challenges of balancing national security with civil liberties, a crucial area of study for aspiring legal professionals.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 7.2/10 - The Raikar Case (2020)
The Raikar Case is a suspenseful thriller series, centered around a mysterious death within the wealthy and influential Raikar family. When the youngest member, Tarun Raikar, dies under suspicious circumstances, the investigation uncovers dark secrets, complex family dynamics, and hidden motives. The series is a captivating whodunit that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by each family member as the truth unravels.
For law students, The Raikar Case provides valuable insight into criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and the manipulation of the justice system by those in power. The show highlights how wealth and influence can impact the course of justice, and it underscores the importance of forensic evidence and proper legal procedures in solving complex cases. The ethical questions surrounding family loyalty versus legal duty make this series a compelling study for anyone interested in criminal law and courtroom strategies.
Available on: Jio Cinema
Rating: 7/10 - Your Honor (2020)
Your Honor is a gripping legal drama series on SonyLIV, starring Jimmy Sheirgill as a respected judge, Bishan Khosla, whose life takes a drastic turn when his son is involved in a hit-and-run accident. What follows is a moral dilemma, as Khosla abandons his principles and uses his legal expertise to protect his son, leading to a spiral of ethical compromises and manipulation of the legal system. The show masterfully depicts the conflict between personal and professional integrity, highlighting the lengths people go to shield their loved ones.
For law students, Your Honor provides a unique perspective on the moral challenges lawyers and judges may face. It delves into the misuse of power within the legal system, ethical dilemmas, and the consequences of bending the law for personal reasons. The series offers an in-depth look at how justice can be compromised and is a must-watch for understanding the human side of legal decision-making.
Available on: JioCinema
Rating: 7.7/10 -
Rating: 7.4/10 -
For law students, Hello Mini is a compelling watch as it delves into the modern legal issues surrounding cyberstalking, harassment, and personal privacy in the digital age. The series highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in handling cybercrimes and underscores the importance of legislation to protect individuals from online threats. It’s a valuable case study on the evolving nature of crime in the digital world, making it highly relevant for students specializing in cyber law and criminal justice.
Available on: MX Player
Rating: 7.9/10 - Illegal (2020 – 2024)
Illegal is a gripping Indian web series that delves into the intricate world of legal drama. Over three seasons, this show portrays the riveting lives of legal professionals as they navigate the complex and often morally ambiguous world of law and justice. The series centers around Niharika Singh, a dynamic lawyer played by Neha Sharma, who grapples with high-profile cases that challenge her ethics and professional integrity.
Season 1 introduces viewers to Niharika’s journey in a prominent law firm, where she grapples with cases that test her principles. Season 2 escalates the drama with high-profile cases and intense courtroom battles, revealing the personal and professional cost of justice. By Season 3, the stakes are higher as Niharika confronts deeper systemic issues and personal vendettas.
For law students, Illegal offers a fascinating look at courtroom battles, legal strategies, and the personal sacrifices involved in pursuing justice. The series meticulously depicts various legal scenarios, courtroom dynamics, and the high stakes of legal practice, providing valuable insights into real-world legal challenges. By showcasing diverse legal issues, from corporate malfeasance to personal vendettas, it offers a compelling and educational viewing experience that enriches one’s understanding of the legal field.
Available on: Jio Cinema
Rating: 7.2/10 - DELHI CRIME
This Emmy award winning web series is recommended for every person out there who seeks to learn about the magnanimity of the 2012 Delhi Gang Rape case. Focussing upon the aftermath of the case, where DCP Vartika Chaturvedi is assigned the task to find and identify the culprits, this web series will give you a fair idea of the police proceeding in the cases of rape. This web series has done absolute justice in depicting one of the most brutal and terrific rape cases of the county which shook the capital and its inhabitants and is a must watch for criminal law students.
Available on: Netflix
Rating: 8.5/10 - Criminal Justice (Seasons 1-3)
Criminal Justice is an Indian crime drama web series, adapted from the British series of the same name. Spanning three seasons, the show masterfully explores the intricacies of the legal system, focusing on how justice is sought and delivered in different cases. Each season tackles a unique crime, providing insight into the criminal justice system, police procedures, courtroom drama, and the emotional toll on those involved.
Season 1 follows Aditya (Vikrant Massey), who is falsely accused of murder, exploring wrongful accusations, investigation loopholes, and the overwhelming complexities of the criminal trial process.
Season 2, subtitled Behind Closed Doors, revolves around a case of domestic abuse and a wife’s murder of her husband. It deals with legal battles over self-defense, mental health, and the complex dynamics of a seemingly perfect family falling apart.
Season 3, Adhura Sach, highlights a case involving juvenile justice, media trials, and the legal issues surrounding minors accused of serious crimes.
For law students, Criminal Justice is a compelling watch because it takes you deep into the realities of criminal law, including the defense of the accused, the pressure on the prosecution, and the challenges faced by lawyers in balancing morality with legal obligations. The show provides a detailed view of how evidence is handled, how cases evolve in court, and the human element behind legal disputes. It’s a brilliant resource for understanding the complexities of criminal law and procedures in India, offering a nuanced look at the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals.
Available on: Disney+Hotstar
Rating: 8/10
- THE VERDICT STATE V. NANAVATI
If you are a law student then you must have herd the name of Indian Naval Command Officer, Kawas Nanavati who was accused of murdering Prem Ahuja. After finding out that he was having an affair with his wife Slyvia Nanavati. This thriller story of the Navy officer is a must watch as it will show. You the glimpses and the shades of Indian Politics and Judiciary. Watch this murder mystery to understand why the case of Kawas Nanawati in the year 1959, is still cited by several professors at you college.
Available on: Alt Balaji & Zee films
Rating: 8.4/10
MOVIES
- Ek Banda Kaafi Hai (2023)
Ek Banda Kaafi Hai is a compelling courtroom drama based on real events, revolving around the fight for justice by a single lawyer against a powerful and influential spiritual leader accused of sexual assault. The film showcases the perseverance, wit, and dedication of a lawyer determined to stand up for the victim, despite facing immense pressure and threats from powerful forces. The courtroom sequences are riveting, with strong arguments and counterarguments, shedding light on the role of legal expertise, evidence, and judicial integrity in high-stakes cases.
For law students, Ek Banda Kaafi Hai is an essential watch as it demonstrates how a single, determined lawyer can bring about justice through the rule of law, despite obstacles. The film explores crucial aspects of criminal law, human rights, and the importance of ethical practice, making it a valuable lesson for those studying law.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 8/10 - Jana Gana Mana (2022)
Jana Gana Mana is a thought-provoking political and legal drama that delves into the complexities of the Indian justice system. The story unfolds through a riveting courtroom battle following the murder of a college professor, sparking public outrage and media frenzy. The film cleverly explores themes of justice, police brutality, political manipulation, and public perception, while questioning the fairness and transparency of the legal system. It delivers powerful social commentary on the intersection of law, politics, and media in shaping justice.
For law students, Jana Gana Mana is a must-watch because it highlights the fragility of the justice system in the face of societal pressures, political agendas, and media influence. The film also addresses key legal principles such as the burden of proof, the role of a defense lawyer, and the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals.
Available on: Netflix
Rating: 8.3/10 - Jai Bhim (2021)
Jai Bhim is a powerful legal drama inspired by true events, set in Tamil Nadu during the 1990s. The film follows the fight for justice led by a righteous lawyer, Chandru, who takes on the case of a tribal woman whose husband was falsely accused and brutally tortured in police custody. The movie exposes the deep-seated caste-based discrimination and police brutality faced by marginalized communities. It highlights the importance of human rights, legal activism, and the role of lawyers in ensuring justice for the oppressed.
For law students, Jai Bhim is essential viewing as it showcases the real-life application of constitutional law, human rights advocacy, and criminal defense. It also emphasizes the importance of pro bono work and standing up for marginalized communities in the face of systemic injustice. The film sheds light on the workings of habeas corpus petitions and the vital role of the judiciary in protecting individual rights.
Available on: Prime Videos
Rating: 8.7/10 - Guilty (2020)
Guilty is a Netflix original film that explores the themes of consent, sexual harassment, and the power dynamics in relationships. The story revolves around a rape accusation made by a college student against a popular musician, and how his girlfriend, Nanki (played by Kiara Advani), struggles to navigate the complexities of loyalty, guilt, and truth. The film raises crucial questions about the influence of societal status, media narratives, and personal biases on justice.
For law students, Guilty is essential viewing as it delves into legal and ethical issues surrounding consent, false accusations, and the burden of proof. It highlights how cases of sexual assault are often clouded by personal relationships and social standing, making the role of the law even more critical. The film underscores the importance of a fair trial and challenges preconceptions, which are vital learnings for any aspiring legal professional.
Available on: Netflix]
Rating: 5.4/10 - Ankur Arora Murder Case (2013)
Ankur Arora Murder Case is a gripping medical-legal drama that revolves around the death of an eight-year-old boy due to medical negligence during surgery. The film follows the journey of a young, idealistic intern who decides to take legal action against his mentor, a highly respected surgeon, after realizing the negligence that led to the tragic outcome. The courtroom battles and ethical dilemmas surrounding medical malpractice and professional accountability form the crux of the story.
For law students, Ankur Arora Murder Case is a must-watch as it delves into the complexities of medical negligence law, the legal rights of patients, and the responsibilities of healthcare providers. The film highlights the importance of ethical practice, the role of expert witnesses, and the intricacies of civil lawsuits related to medical malpractice, making it highly relevant for those studying tort law and medical jurisprudence.
Available on: Prime Videos
Rating: 6.5/10 - Nail Polish (2021)
Nail Polish is a gripping psychological courtroom thriller that revolves around a high-profile case involving the brutal murder of migrant children. The accused, a well-respected individual, pleads innocence, but as the trial progresses, unexpected twists reveal deeper psychological complexities and hidden truths. The film explores themes of mental illness, memory manipulation, and the blurred lines between guilt and innocence, making it an intense legal drama.
For law students, Nail Polish is a must-watch as it delves into the psychological dimensions of criminal law and explores the concept of the insanity defense, mental health in legal contexts, and the intricate workings of criminal trials. The movie also highlights the importance of legal strategy, cross-examinations, and how evidence can shift the course of a case, offering law students a fascinating insight into the criminal justice system.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 7.2/10 - 420 IPC (2021)
420 IPC is a riveting courtroom drama centered around a high-profile financial fraud case. The film follows the story of a chartered accountant who gets embroiled in a legal battle after being accused of embezzlement and fraud under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). As the courtroom proceedings unfold, the film delves into the intricacies of financial crimes, legal strategies, and the challenges of proving innocence in a system where evidence can be easily manipulated. The lawyer-client relationship and the process of building a strong defense form the core of the narrative.
For law students, 420 IPC is an essential watch as it provides valuable insights into white-collar crime, fraud detection, and how financial crimes are prosecuted in India. It also highlights the legal processes involved in defending against charges of criminal breach of trust and cheating, making it a crucial case study for those interested in corporate law and criminal defense.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 6.5/10 - Batti Gul Meter Chalu (2018)
Batti Gul Meter Chalu is a social drama that focuses on the issue of electricity overbilling in rural India. The story revolves around three friends, one of whom faces an unjust electricity bill of an astronomical amount, which leads to financial ruin and personal tragedy. A friend-turned-lawyer steps in to fight against the corrupt electricity company in court. The film is a blend of humor, friendship, and a hard-hitting look at social injustice, with the courtroom sequences being central to the narrative.
For law students, Batti Gul Meter Chalu is an essential watch as it deals with consumer rights, public interest litigation (PIL), and the role of lawyers in fighting corporate malpractices. The film provides a practical understanding of how to advocate for clients in cases of corporate fraud, billing disputes, and consumer protection, making it highly relevant for students interested in civil law and consumer rights.
Available on: Zee 5 & YouTube
Rating: 5.9/10 - AITRAAZ
A well-directed and well-executed movie, aitraaz is one of the best pieces of Bollywood film industry that brings out the unseen side of the women who take advantage of some special rights provided to them by the law. The movie outlines the character of a woman who falsely accuse a man of rape and sexual harassment. The movie makes the audience aware of the beliefs and the attitude that the society has towards any woman that accuses a man of harassment. The society has a preconceived notion of the man being the wrongdoer. Thus, the manner in which the lawyer in this movie i.e. the protagonist’s wife reveals the falsity of the woman is a must watch for every law student.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 6.6/10
- SHAURYA
This movie revolves around a group of army officers, where one of the junior officers, shoots his senior officer. The entire plot of the movie is based on criminal law, where the junior officer tries every means to take off all the charges of murder put on him. The ways and means that he adopts in the movie to do so, is a must watch for every law student.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 7.3/10 - OH MY GOD!
This movie became the most popular one in the Bollywood industry which involves the protagonist filing a lawsuit against ‘god’. This movie still remains the most unique one which bought an awareness among the people about all those who deceive people in the name of god. The way the protagonist of the movie presents his arguments is commendable. This makes him win the almost impossible and unachievable case against the representatives of various religions. The movie is thus a must watch.
Available on: Netflix & Prime Videos
Rating: 8.1/10 - JAZBAA
This movie is a story of a strong and reputed criminal lawyer who has never failed to punish criminals in her entire career. She is a lady of the morals of her profession in the movie. However, her daughter gets kidnapped and she receives a threat call where the kidnappers agree to release her daughter only on one condition. The condition being, fighting the case of their fellow mate who has been accused with charges of rape and murder. The movie thus showcases the moral and social dilemma that lawyers have to face in their life. The protagonist chooses the way to represent the convict to save her own daughter. Thus, the movie being thriller and outlining the dilemmas that almost every lawyer faces in their career is a must watch, especially for law students.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 5.8/10 -
RUSTOM
This movie is based on a real-life case and is one of the most debated judgement of India. The story revolves around a reputed, honest, and one of the best navy officers, who shoots a man for personal reasons associated with his wife. He fights his case till the end and later pleads guilty on moral grounds. The majority of the jury of Bombay High Court votes in favor of the navy officer, and removes all charges of murder imposed on him on moral grounds. It thus remains the most debated decision of India’s legal system. This debated judgement must surely be watched by all law students and lawyers.
Available on: Zee 5 & Netflix
Rating: 7.5/10 - PINK
It is one of the most impactful movies of Bollywood which is based on the rights of a women. The movie chronicles an incident where three girls get trapped and implicated in a crime by a gang of boys. When no one steps up to defend them, because the boy belongs to a powerful and dominating family of the state, a retired lawyer comes up to fight for them. The element of suspense continues throughout the movie of deciding who was correct. The movie witnesses few strong dialogues said in relation to the rights of a women. The style of defending the case and digging deep into the truth of the incident enables the girls to get justice. It is thus, a sure watch for all the law students out there.
Available on: Disney + Hotstar & Netflix
Rating: 8.1/10 -
MULK
The movie takes us back to the times when there were major issues and tensions between Hindus and Muslims of India. The lead actor is a lawyer whose son is held guilty of deceiving the country by getting involved in the bomb blasts planned by Pakistan. The death of the son eventually leads to the arrest of the father, who is then defended by his daughter in law. The allegations primarily based on religion are all taken down by her which leads to his ultimate win. The arguments presented in the court by the actor must be witnessed.
Available on: Zee 5
Rating: 6.9/10 - COURT
‘Court’ is a National Award winner and one of the most underrated movies. It is a multilingual movie which takes you on the road of visualizing the most powerful trial. The movie is about an activist who is a protest singer. He gets falsely accused of encouraging a manhole worker to commit suicide being inspired by one of his folk songs. The way the allegations against him are proved wrong in the court, is a must watch which would provide deep insights as to the style of arguments and method of trial in the court of law.
Available on: Prime Videos
Rating: 7.7/10 - JOLLY LLB 2
The movie is a Bollywood and Indian based movie that chronicles the reality of law and order in India. It revolves around a lawyer who tries really hard to bring out the hasty realities of corruption existing in the legal system itself. The actor falls into the vicious circle of exploitation and corruption in the beginning, but eventually finds ways to bring out the truth and solve the long-solved case of intentional encounter by the police of a lady’s husband. It makes us aware of the realities that lies behind the curtain of Indian legal system of India. It is thus, a must watch for law students.
Available on: Disney + Hotstar & Prime Videos
Rating: 7.2/10 - SECTION 375
This movie made efforts to show the darker side of the women who take advantage of the rights given to them. This movie witnesses an accusation on a male movie director by a costume designer. From the beginning, the victim attracts sympathy of the media as well as the common public. The popular public prosecutor of the town undertakes the girl’s case, to only realize in the end that all the charges on the director were false. However, by this time the court convicts him for a sentence of 10 years imprisonment. The manner in which the defense lawyer produces facts in the court, is commendable. He, however lacks evidence which makes him lose the case. The criminal fight in the court must be watched by every law student.
Available on: Prime Videos & Netflix
Rating: 8.1/10 - BADLA
It is one of the best thrillers and revenge movies of Bollywood. The movie casts Tapsee Pannu and Amitabh Bachchan who also received various awards for this movie. The movie outlines the murder of a boy and the charges for his murder comes on to the protagonist. She then hires the town’s most reputable and strong but retired lawyer to fight her case. The characteristics that must be portrayed by every lawyer has been shown by the protagonist. The movie unfolds various twists and turns and every moment beholds a new surprise. The movie is thus a good learning and is unmissable.
Available on: Netflix
Rating: 7.8/10 - SHAHID
The movie is the biopic of a lawyer, Shahid Azmi, who represented Muslims very frequently in his entire legal profession. He is shown to be a very strong and brave criminal lawyer who also fought on issues relating to human-rights. The movie witnesses all the past, present and future events of the protagonist where he is seen to have a very miserable past. The past events of his life come back to him as a villain and spoils his present and future. The interrogations, humiliation and life surviving challenges that he faces has been brought into light in the movie. The proceedings of the accusations put on him have been shown in detail in the movie and is a sure watch for every law student.
Available on: Prime Videos
Rating: 8.2/10 - NO ONE KILLED JESSICA
This outstanding movie showcases a real-life incident that took place in Delhi. The movie is about a girl who worked as a bar tender in a club and was shot by the son of a politician because of the simple reason of refusing to serve him drinks. This incident left the entire nation in shock. The entire incident from the beginning of investigation till the end of justice has been shown in the movie. The movie tries to put forward the failed efforts of seeking justice due to the existence of corruption and influence of the politicians. The movie must not be missed and is a must watch.
Available on: Netflix
Rating: 7.2/10 - TALVAR
This movie is based on a real-life incident of double murder case that took place in Noida, New Delhi. The case involved the murder of a teenage girl and the maid of that house. The investigations that was conducted by the CBI and other teams charged the family for the murder of the two. The actual murderers till today remain under mystery. The entire process of investigation conducted during the case has been showcased in the movie. The audience is left with the suspense of who conducted the murder and thus it is a must watch for law students to be able to form judgements on cases.
Available on: Disney + Hotstar
Rating: 8.2/10 - 377 ABNORMAL
Inspired by the story of the case of Navtej Singh v. Union of India, 2018, this movie depicts the hardships and challenges faced by the LGBTQ community before the Supreme Court decriminalised homosexuality. This movie also traces the battle fought by the LGBTQ community over several years to finally get the courts to hear their voices. As the story unfolds, the viewers gets to see the back story of the four petitioners of the ongoing case. This movie is perfect for those who want to understand the hardships which the LGBTQ community has faced over a period of several years. However the the movie critiques have not given flamboyant rating to the film, but it can still be on the bucket list of someone who wants to learn more about the matter.
Available on: Zee5
Rating: 6.3/10 - COURT MARTIAL
All the aspirant JAGS out there, here is a movie for you to watch. As law students, we all know the importance of motive behind any crime. In this movie the defence lawyer goes behind to investigate the motive behind a brutal assault done by a sensor army officer and finds out some shocking facts which are then contented in the courts. Apart from giving glimpses of an army court martial, this movie also teaches the viewer about the art of investigation and the importance of motive in a crime.
Available on: Zee5
Rating: 6.8/10
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