2022 was a phenomenal year for Pollywood. After the lull of the pandemic, the Punjabi film industry bounced back with massive energy, bigger budgets, and stories that resonated from the villages of Punjab to the multiplexes of Canada and the UK.
From high-octane action to laugh-riot comedies and heart-touching dramas, here are the 7 hit Punjabi movies of 2022 that you absolutely cannot miss.
The Emotional Surprise Released late in 2021 but running well into 2022, Honsla Rakh deserves a spot on this list. Diljit Dosanjh (again!) starred as a single father navigating modern relationships. It was a perfect blend of comedy and emotion, proving that Punjabi cinema is maturing beyond just "Putt Jatt Da" tropes. Shehnaaz Gill’s debut was the icing on the cake. 7 Hit Movies Punjabi 2022
Sidhu Moose Wala’s debut film Moosa Jatt was one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Released shortly before his tragic demise, the film showcased Sidhu in a rugged, action-packed avatar. The movie received a thunderous response from fans, not just for the storyline, but for the sheer star power of the late artist. The emotional connection of the audience made this film a significant hit of the year.
Genre: Action / Sports Drama Director: Dheeraj Rattan Cast: Karan Aujla, Jayy Randhawa Lights, Camera, Bhangra
2022 was also the year of the singer-turned-actor. Lyricist and singer Karan Aujla made his acting debut with Shooter. Based on a true story, the film follows a young man from the villages of Punjab who becomes a sharp shooter for the police to avenge his brother.
Why it was a hit: While seasoned actors dominated other genres, Shooter appealed specifically to the youth. Aujla’s swagger and the raw, violent action sequences (very uncharacteristic of previous Pollywood films) attracted a male-dominated audience. The soundtrack was a banger, and it proved that Pollywood could do massy action heroes just like the South Indian film industries. Genre: Family / Romance Why it hits: A
Why it was a Hit: A dark horse of the year, Sher Bagga proved that a simple, character-driven story can beat massive budget films. Starring Ammy Virk in a career-best performance, this film was about a boxer from a small village fighting personal demons.