Films by Karan Johar as a Director: Ranked from Worst to Best
Hate him as you may, but the truth remains that Karan Johar is a director who has reshaped Bollywood pop culture in a way that generations of audiences still talk about his movies. He has faced a lot of flak over the last couple of years for his statements and general style approach, but he is a good filmmaker and that is a label he has held very close to himself for more than two decades. His directorial journey spans over-the-top family dramas, thought-provoking shorts, and some experiments that didn’t quite hit the mark. While some films redefined Bollywood, others felt like rare missteps. Here’s a countdown ranking films by Karan Johar as a director, from the least impactful to his very best.
9. Ghost Stories (Short Film, 2020)
While Ghost Stories was an exciting follow-up to the successful anthology Lust Stories, Karan Johar’s venture into horror fell short of expectations. Starring Mrunal Thakur and Avinash Tiwary, Karan Johar’s segment lacked the tension and psychological depth expected from a strong horror film. It was confusing and didn’t pack the emotional or psychological punch that Johar’s best work is known for.
Although it’s admirable to see him experiment with a new genre, this short ranks low in his filmography. It’s a rare misfire in an otherwise impressive career.
8. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
Anticipation was high for Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, especially given the star-studded cast of Ranbir Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai, and Anushka Sharma. But while the film had its moments, particularly in its portrayal of unrequited love, it ultimately fell short. The narrative started strong but became monotonous as it progressed, and the climax felt especially underwhelming.
While the performances were stellar and the music left an indelible mark, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil didn’t live up to its potential as one of the most anticipated films by Karan Johar.
7. Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna (2006)
One of the most controversial films in Bollywood, Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna (KANK) explored the complexities of extramarital relationships. Its bold subject matter and honest portrayal of unhappy marriages sparked conversations and debates about societal norms. This film was ahead of its time in tackling such a controversial theme, and though it polarized audiences, Karan Johar deserves credit for pushing boundaries with his storytelling.
Though KANK is not everyone’s favorite, it’s undeniably a brave experiment from Johar, challenging societal expectations and offering a more mature, nuanced narrative on love and fidelity.
6. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was a cult classic of the 90s. Though the film is beloved by many and holds a special place in Bollywood history, it feels a bit cringe today. The love triangle between Rahul, Anjali, and Tina is iconic, but the film’s portrayal of gender and relationships hasn’t aged well.
Nevertheless, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was a massive hit and helped cement Karan Johar’s place in Bollywood. It was his debut as a director and struck gold with its mix of romance, friendship, and chart-topping music.
5. Bombay Talkies (2013)
Bombay Talkies was an anthology film celebrating 100 years of Indian cinema, and Johar’s segment, Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh, was a surprising departure from his usual grandiose style. The story revolves around a middle-aged woman in an unhappy marriage, exploring themes of repressed sexuality, alienation, and modern relationships.
This short film showcases Johar’s ability to handle nuanced, introspective storytelling, proving that he can step away from the melodrama and deliver something mature and thoughtful.
4. Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023)
Karan Johar’s recent film, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, marks his return to form in a big way. In an era where Bollywood is evolving, Johar rises to the challenge by addressing and fixing many of the clichés he established in his earlier works. The film strikes a balance between tradition and modernity, with a dash of Karan Johar’s signature flair for romance and family drama.
As someone who witnessed this in a packed theater, I can confidently say Karan Johar managed to capture the audience’s attention from start to finish. With this film, he has proven that he can still hold his own in a rapidly changing cinematic landscape.
3. My Name is Khan (2010)
My Name Is Khan stands out as one of Karan Johar’s most socially relevant films. This film tackled themes of identity, religion, and the global perception of Muslims post-9/11, with Shah Rukh Khan delivering one of the most powerful performances of his career. Khan plays Rizwan, a man with Asperger’s syndrome, embarking on a journey across the U.S. to prove that not all Muslims are terrorists.
What makes My Name Is Khan so impactful is its emotional depth and the universal themes of love, acceptance, and humanity.
2. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
This film needs no introduction. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, also known as K3G, is a cultural milestone that has etched itself into the hearts of Bollywood fans globally. The tale of family, love, pride, and sacrifice, punctuated with memorable performances and a stellar soundtrack, is still relevant two decades later. The film may be melodramatic, but it’s Johar at his best, creating an epic family saga that resonates across generations.
Whether it’s the glamour, the opulence, or the emotional tug, K3G remains one of Johar’s most celebrated works, cementing his legacy as a storyteller capable of blending family dynamics with grand cinema.
1. Lust Stories (Short Film, 2018)
Though it’s only a short film, Lust Stories features some of the most mature, thought-provoking storytelling of Karan Johar’s career. His segment on female desire and societal taboos surrounding sexuality is bold, entertaining, and unapologetically real. The way he handles the complexity of lust and gender roles shows a level of sophistication and awareness that marks a high point in his career as a director.
While Johar is known for his family dramas and romances, this short film is proof that he can do much more, telling stories that challenge societal norms in a way that feels honest and relevant. And for that reason, Lust Stories is easily one of the best films by Karan Johar as a director.
Final Thoughts on Films by Karan Johar
Karan Johar’s directorial journey showcases his range as a filmmaker. Whether it’s the over-the-top grandeur of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham or the bold storytelling of Lust Stories, his body of work reflects a filmmaker who isn’t afraid to push boundaries and evolve with the times. Some of his films have become pop culture landmarks, while others show his willingness to experiment, even if they don’t always land perfectly. Regardless, Karan Johar remains one of the most influential (and controversial!) directors in Bollywood.
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