Our guide into the world of fraud, corruption, and deception with these 7 scam-based movies and web series, including Hisaab Barabar, Scam 1992, Jamtara, and more. Perfect for crime and thriller fans!
For fans of thrillers and crime dramas, 2025 is off to a promising start. Vikramaditya Motwane's Black Warrant has already created a buzz on Netflix, and with the release of Paatal Lok season two just around the corner, excitement is high. Adding to this lineup is Hisaab Barabar, another much-anticipated crime thriller, offering a deep dive into the murky world of scams. This series evokes memories of the groundbreaking Scam 1992, which once dominated everyone’s watchlist.
Scam-based dramas are a cinematic exploration of fraud, deception, and corruption, providing a lens into the darker side of human ambition and greed. From stock market manipulation to phishing scams, these stories showcase the complexity of such crimes. If scam-driven storylines intrigue you, here’s a curated list of seven Indian movies and web series that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Jugaadistan
Where to watch: Lionsgate Play
This coming-of-age drama set on a Delhi university campus highlights the quintessential Indian trait of jugaad—an innovative, resourceful approach to problem-solving. Against a backdrop of college politics, academic pressures, and personal dilemmas, the series captures the journey of youngsters as they navigate friendships, romance, and decisions that will shape their lives.
2. Jamtara Where to watch: Netflix
This gripping series delves into the lives of ambitious small-town youths who run a successful phishing racket. As the police close in, they face conflicts within their group and external threats, making it a binge-worthy crime drama. With standout performances by Sparsh Srivastav, Amit Sial, and Aksha Pardasany, Jamtara is both intense and thought-provoking.
3. Scam 1992
Where to watch: SonyLIV
Based on the book The Scam: Who Won, Who Lost, Who Got Away, this series chronicles the rise and fall of stockbroker Harshad Mehta. Pratik Gandhi’s exceptional performance as Mehta, coupled with an engaging narrative, makes Scam 1992 a modern classic that’s both educational and entertaining.
4. Hisaab Barabar
Where to watch: ZEE5
This upcoming thriller stars R. Madhavan as an ordinary man who uncovers fraudulent banking practices while filing an income tax return for a colleague. Set to release on January 24, Hisaab Barabar promises a gripping tale of courage and justice.
5. Bad Boy Billionaires
Where to watch: Netflix
This documentary series exposes the greed and corruption of prominent Indian businessmen like Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya. Despite facing legal challenges, it offers a deep dive into scandals that rocked India’s financial system and affected millions.
6. The Big Bull
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Inspired by the infamous stock market scam led by Harshad Mehta, this film stars Abhishek Bachchan as the ambitious broker whose greed and manipulation led to a financial collapse. With Ileana D'Cruz playing a determined journalist, The Big Bull offers a dramatized yet compelling take on real-life events.
7. Maharani
Where to watch: SonyLIV
Set in the 1990s, Maharani draws inspiration from the fodder scam and Rabri Devi's rise to power in Bihar. Huma Qureshi shines as Rani Bharti, an ordinary homemaker thrust into the political limelight, navigating corruption and conspiracies with grit and determination.
Whether you prefer political intrigue, crime thrillers, or real-life documentaries, these seven titles offer a compelling mix of drama, suspense, and insight into the murky world of scams.
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