Irrfan Khan was a talented Indian actor who made a mark in both Indian and international cinema. He was known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen.
Best Irrfan Khan Movies
Khan appeared in numerous films over the course of his career, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan following. He passed away in 2020, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.
1. Paan Singh Tomar (2012)
Paan Singh Tomar is a biographical drama film directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. Irrfan Khan plays the titular character, a national steeplechase champion who becomes a notorious bandit after being wronged by the system.
The film is a powerful portrayal of a man’s transformation in response to the injustices he faces. Khan’s performance in the film is widely regarded as one of his best, and he won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Paan Singh Tomar.
The film was also a critical and commercial success, and remains one of the most iconic movies in Irrfan Khan’s career.
- Irrfan Khan, Mahi Gill, Vipin Sharma (Actor)
2. The Lunchbox (2013)
The Lunchbox is a romantic drama film directed by Ritesh Batra. Irrfan Khan stars alongside Nimrat Kaur in the lead roles. The film tells the story of two strangers who form a connection through letters exchanged in a lunchbox.
Khan plays the role of Saajan Fernandes, a lonely widower who develops a bond with a housewife named Ila, played by Kaur. The film was praised for its nuanced performances and subtle storytelling, and Khan’s portrayal of Saajan Fernandes was widely appreciated.
The Lunchbox was also a critical and commercial success, both in India and internationally, and remains one of the most beloved movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
![The Lunchbox [Blu-ray + DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516EvF2NBnL.jpg)
- Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Lillete Dubey (Actors)
- Ritesh Batra (Director) - Guneet Monga (Producer)
- English, French (Subtitles)
- English (Publication Language)
- Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
3. Talvar (2015)
Talvar is a crime drama film directed by Meghna Gulzar. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Ashwin Kumar, a seasoned investigating officer who is called in to solve a controversial double murder case.
It is based on the real-life Noida double murder case of 2008, and presents multiple perspectives on the crime and its investigation. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its understated yet powerful portrayal of a man who is determined to get to the truth.
Talvar was also praised for its meticulous research and attention to detail, and remains one of the most critically acclaimed movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
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4. Hindi Medium (2017)
Hindi Medium is a comedy-drama film directed by Saket Chaudhary. Irrfan Khan stars alongside Saba Qamar in the lead roles. It tells the story of a couple from a lower-middle-class background who aspire to give their daughter the best education possible.
Khan plays the role of Raj Batra, a successful businessman who is willing to go to any lengths to secure his daughter’s admission in a top school.
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The film was praised for its witty writing and sharp social commentary, and Khan’s performance as the doting yet pragmatic father was widely appreciated. Hindi Medium was a critical and commercial success, and remains one of the most popular movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Saba Qamar, Deepak Dobriyal, Irrfan Khan (Actors)
- Saket Chaudhary (Director) - Sonu Sinha (Writer) - Sanjay Bector (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
5. Maqbool (2003)
Maqbool is a crime drama film directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, and is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Irrfan Khan plays the titular role of Maqbool, a henchman of a mafia don who is driven by ambition and greed.
The film is a dark and brooding take on the themes of power, loyalty and betrayal. Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its intensity and depth, and he effectively conveyed the character’s conflicted emotions and moral dilemmas.
Maqbool was also appreciated for its atmospheric cinematography and evocative soundtrack, and remains one of the most iconic movies in Irrfan Khan’s career.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Irrfan Khan, Tabu, Pankaj Kapur (Actors)
- Vishal Bhardwaj (Director) - Abbas Tyrewala (Writer) - Bobby Bedi (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
6. Haasil (2003)
Haasil is a crime drama film directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Ranvijay Singh, a charismatic and ruthless student leader who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.
The film is set in a college campus in Uttar Pradesh and explores themes of power, politics and corruption.
Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its intensity and authenticity, and he effectively portrayed the complex and multi-layered character of Ranvijay.
Haasil was also appreciated for its realistic portrayal of the politics of student unions, and remains one of the most iconic movies in Irrfan Khan’s career.
- English (Subtitle)
7. Madaari (2016)
Madaari is a social thriller film directed by Nishikant Kamat. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Nirmal Kumar, a common man who takes matters into his own hands after his son is killed in a bridge collapse.
The film is a commentary on the state of the country’s infrastructure and the apathy of those in power. Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its emotional depth and nuanced portrayal of a man consumed by grief and anger.
Madaari was also appreciated for its thought-provoking themes and its ability to keep the audience engaged throughout its runtime. The film remains one of the most compelling movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- English (Subtitle)
8. D-Day (I) (2013)
D-Day is an action thriller film directed by Nikhil Advani. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Wali Khan, a member of a team of Indian intelligence officers who are tasked with bringing back a wanted criminal from Pakistan.
The film is a high-octane tale of espionage and revenge, and Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its intensity and authenticity.
He effectively portrayed the complexities of the character and the toll that the mission takes on him. D-Day was also appreciated for its tight pacing and its ability to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
The film remains one of the most exciting movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
![D-Day - The Total Story [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51qJyJjIWDL.jpg)
- 2-DVD Set in a Cardboard Dust Sleeve
- "D-Day: The Total Story"
- "Eisenhower: Commander In Chief"
- "The True Story of the Screaming Eagles: The 101st Airborne"
- "Dear Home: Letters From World War II"
9. Life of Pi (2012)
Life of Pi is a fantasy adventure film directed by Ang Lee, ba
Life of Pi is a fantasy adventure film directed by Ang Lee, based on the novel of the same name by Yann Martel. Irrfan Khan plays the adult version of the protagonist, Pi, who recounts his incredible tale of survival at sea to a writer seeking inspiration.
The film is a visual spectacle, with stunning cinematography and special effects that bring the story to life. Khan’s performance in the film, although brief, was widely praised for its warmth and humanity.
Life of Pi was also appreciated for its thought-provoking themes and its ability to captivate audiences of all ages.
The film won numerous awards, including four Academy Awards, and remains one of the most beloved movies in Irrfan Khan’s career.
![Life of Pi [Blu-ray] (2012)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51yMYQ63ENL.jpg)
- Suraj Sharma (Actor)
- Ang Lee (Director)
- Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
10. Life in a Metro (2007)
Life in a Metro is a romantic drama film directed by Anurag Basu. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Monty, a brooding and mysterious office executive who is secretly in love with a colleague.
The film explores the lives of multiple characters living in Mumbai, and their interconnected stories of love, heartbreak and redemption.
Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its understated yet powerful portrayal of a man struggling to come to terms with his feelings.
Life in a Metro was also appreciated for its honest and relatable depiction of urban relationships, and its memorable soundtrack that became an instant hit. The film remains one of the most acclaimed movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
11. Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008)
Mumbai Meri Jaan is a drama film directed by Nishikant Kamat. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Rupali Joshi, a journalist who covers the aftermath of the 2006 Mumbai train bombings.
The film is a poignant portrayal of the impact of the tragedy on the lives of ordinary citizens, and their struggles to cope with grief and trauma.
Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its sincerity and sensitivity. He effectively conveyed the character’s empathy and determination to bring out the truth.
Mumbai Meri Jaan was also praised for its realistic portrayal of the city and its people, and its ability to capture the spirit of Mumbai in the face of adversity.
The film remains one of the most powerful movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Irfan Khan, Paresh Rawal, Madhavan (Actors)
- Nishikant Kamat (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
12. The Namesake (2006)
The Namesake is a drama film directed by Mira Nair, based on the novel of the same name by Jhumpa Lahiri. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Ashoke Ganguli, an immigrant from India who moves to the United States with his wife and son.
The film explores the themes of identity, assimilation and the complexities of family relationships. Khan’s performance in the film was widely praised for its sensitivity and depth.
He effectively conveyed the character’s inner conflicts and struggles to find a sense of belonging in a foreign land.
The Namesake was also appreciated for its poignant storytelling and its ability to resonate with audiences of different cultures and backgrounds. The film remains one of the most acclaimed movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Kal Penn, Irrfan Khan, Tabu (Actors)
- Mira Nair (Director) - Sooni Taraporevala (Writer) - Lydia Dean Pilcher (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
13. Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Slumdog Millionaire is a drama film directed by Danny Boyle, based on the novel “Q & A” by Vikas Swarup.
Irrfan Khan plays the role of the police inspector who interrogates the protagonist, Jamal Malik, a slum-dweller who becomes a contestant on the Indian version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”.
The film is a captivating tale of love, hope and destiny, and explores the harsh realities of life in the slums of Mumbai. Khan’s performance in the film, although brief, was widely praised for its understated yet impactful portrayal of a man caught between duty and conscience.
Slumdog Millionaire was also appreciated for its vibrant storytelling and its ability to capture the essence of Mumbai. The film won numerous awards, including eight Academy Awards, and remains one of the most celebrated movies in Irrfan Khan’s career.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Madhur Mittal (Actors)
- Danny Boyle (Director) - Simon Beaufoy (Writer) - Christian Colson (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
14. Angrezi Medium (2020)
Angrezi Medium is a comedy-drama film directed by Homi Adajania. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Champak Bansal, a small-town businessman who is determined to fulfill his daughter’s dream of studying abroad. The film is a heartwarming tale of a father’s love and the lengths he is willing to go to support his child’s.
Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its warmth, humor and emotional depth. It was also his last film before his untimely demise in 2020, making it a poignant and fitting tribute to his talent and legacy.
Angrezi Medium was appreciated for its relatable storytelling and its ability to capture the spirit of small-town India. The film remains one of the most endearing movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Sushant Singh Rajput, Bhumi Pednekar (Actor)
- Abhishek Chaubey (Director)
- Audience Rating: G (General Audience)
15. Haider (2014)
Haider is a crime drama film directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, and is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Roohdar, a mysterious and enigmatic figure who guides the protagonist, Haider, on his quest for revenge.
The film is set in Kashmir during the 1990s, and explores themes of violence, politics and human emotions. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its intensity and mystique.
He effectively conveyed the character’s enigmatic nature and his inner conflicts. Haider was also praised for its realistic portrayal of the complex political situation in Kashmir, and its ability to weave together Shakespearean themes with contemporary issues.
The film remains one of the most captivating movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Shahid Kapoor, Tabu, Shraddha Kapoor (Actors)
- Vishal Bhardwaj (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
16. Yeh Saali Zindagi (2011)
Yeh Saali Zindagi is a crime thriller film directed by Sudhir Mishra. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Arun, a seasoned criminal who becomes embroiled in a web of deceit and betrayal when he is hired to kidnap a wealthy businessman’s wife.
The film is a tense and gripping tale of love, greed and manipulation. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its rawness and authenticity.
He effectively portrayed the character’s complex emotions and his moral ambiguity. Yeh Saali Zindagi was also praised for its gripping screenplay and its ability to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
The film remains one of the most riveting movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
17. Qarib Qarib Single (2017)
Qarib Qarib Single is a romantic comedy film directed by Tanuja Chandra. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Yogi, a quirky and adventurous man who embarks on a journey to meet his ex-girlfriends.
The film is a light-hearted and refreshing take on modern relationships and dating. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its charm and wit.
He effectively portrayed the character’s free-spirited nature and his ability to live life to the fullest. Qarib Qarib Single was also praised for its relatable characters and its ability to balance humor with emotion.
The film remains one of the most endearing movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Parvathy Thiruvothu, Irrfan Khan (Actors)
- Tanuja Chandra (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
- Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
18. Karwaan (2018)
Karwaan is a road trip comedy-drama film directed by Akarsh Khurana. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Shaukat, a grumpy yet lovable man who embarks on a journey to deliver a mistakenly delivered corpse to its rightful place.
The film is a charming and heartwarming tale of friendship, self-discovery and the unexpected twists of life. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its humor and sincerity. He effectively conveyed the character’s quirks and vulnerabilities.
Karwaan was also praised for its beautiful cinematography and its ability to capture the essence of southern India. The film remains one of the most delightful movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
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19. Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns (2013)
Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns is a romantic thriller film directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Indarjeet Singh, a political leader who becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of power and deceit with a royal couple.
The film is a dark and intense portrayal of the complex relationships between love, loyalty and politics. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its intensity and depth. He effectively conveyed the character’s inner conflicts and his unbridled ambition.
Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns was also praised for its gripping screenplay and its ability to keep the audience engaged throughout its runtime. The film remains one of the most thrilling movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
- Jimmy Sheirgill, Mahie Gill, Irrfan Khan (Actors)
- Tigmanshu Dhulia (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
- Hindi (Publication Language)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
20. Blackmail (I) (2018)
Blackmail is a black comedy film directed by Abhinay Deo. Irrfan Khan plays the role of Dev Kaushal, a middle-aged man who discovers that his wife is having an extramarital affair, and decides to blackmail her lover for money.
The film is a satirical take on modern relationships and the absurdity of life. Khan’s performance in the film was widely appreciated for its wit and humor. He effectively portrayed the character’s desperation and his ability to turn a bad situation into a profitable one.
Blackmail was also praised for its unconventional storytelling and its ability to keep the audience guessing until the end. The film remains one of the most entertaining movies in Irrfan Khan’s filmography.
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3 Reasons To Watch Irrfan Khan Movies
Exceptional Acting: Irrfan Khan was known for his exceptional acting skills, and his movies are a testament to his ability to bring characters to life with nuance and depth. Watching his movies can be a
Diverse Range of Films: Khan’s filmography spans a diverse range of genres, from intense crime dramas to heartwarming romantic comedies, and each movie offers a unique perspective on human emotions and relationships. Watching his movies can be a journey through different worlds and experiences, and an opportunity to explore the depths of human nature.
Cultural Significance: Irrfan Khan was not just an actor, but a cultural icon who transcended borders and boundaries.
His movies offer a glimpse into Indian culture, traditions, and values, and provide a window into the richness and diversity of the Indian experience.
Watching his movies can be a chance to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of a vibrant and complex culture.
Best Irrfan Khan Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, Irrfan Khan was an incredibly talented actor who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. He had a remarkable ability to convey the complexities of human emotions with nuance and depth.
His filmography includes a wide range of genres, from crime dramas and thrillers to romantic comedies and social commentaries.
Some of his most memorable performances include his roles in Paan Singh Tomar, The Lunchbox, Talvar, Hindi Medium, Maqbool, Haasil, Madaari, and many more.
Each of these movies showcases Khan’s exceptional range and versatility as an actor, and his ability to bring his characters to life with authenticity and sincerity.
Khan will be dearly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and film lovers.
