Heist and crime stories have long captivated audiences with clever plans, unexpected twists and characters who find themselves caught in situations far more dangerous than they anticipated. Whether it is a daring robbery, an elaborate scam or a criminal operation that spirals out of control, these stories combine suspense, strategy and high-stakes drama.
Joining this genre is Prime Video’s upcoming Hindi Original series Chaar Yaar. The show follows four middle-class friends whose life takes an unexpected turn after one decision draws them into the world of gangsters and law enforcement.
Before the series arrives, here are seven films and shows worth revisiting for their gripping stories of crime, deception and risky adventures.
1. Dhoom
With its high-speed bike chases, daring robberies and a determined police officer, Dhoom brought an action-packed approach to the heist genre. The film centres on Kabir, played by John Abraham, and his gang as they carry out a series of robberies. Hot on their trail are police officer Jai Dixit, played by Abhishek Bachchan, and his partner Ali, portrayed by Uday Chopra.
The franchise continued to build on its signature mix of stylish criminals, elaborate robberies and thrilling pursuits, making Dhoom a memorable name in Bollywood’s crime-action space.
2. Don
Featuring Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role, Don revolves around an underworld kingpin and Vijay, a lookalike recruited by the authorities to infiltrate the criminal organisation. As Vijay attempts to maintain his cover, changing identities, dangerous encounters and questions of loyalty complicate the mission.
The film also stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Arjun Rampal, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Boman Irani. Its combination of deception, suspense and shifting power dynamics keeps the audience guessing about the characters’ true intentions.
3. Farzi
In Prime Video’s crime thriller Farzi, Sunny’s attempt to rescue his grandfather’s struggling printing press leads him into the world of counterfeit currency. Played by Shahid Kapoor, Sunny is a talented artist whose skills enable him to produce convincing fake banknotes.
However, what begins as a way to overcome financial difficulties soon becomes a dangerous criminal venture. Sunny finds himself in a tense cat-and-mouse chase with Michael, an unconventional task force officer played by Vijay Sethupathi.
Created by Raj and DK, the series explores how a seemingly profitable scheme can quickly become difficult to control as the consequences of each decision grow more serious.
4. Bunty Aur Babli
Bunty Aur Babli takes a lighter approach to crime, following Rakesh and Vimmi, two small-town dreamers who become an unlikely pair of con artists. As Bunty and Babli, they travel across the country carrying out inventive scams, including the notorious trick of selling the Taj Mahal.
Starring Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Amitabh Bachchan, the film combines comedy, ambition and clever deception. Their growing reputation, however, attracts the attention of a persistent police officer, threatening to bring their run of successful cons to an end.
5. Special 26
In Special 26, a group of con artists uses impersonation to carry out carefully planned raids. Posing as CBI and income tax officials, they target wealthy businessmen and politicians, making their operations appear legitimate.
Inspired by real-life incidents, the film stars Akshay Kumar as Ajay Singh, alongside Anupam Kher, Manoj Bajpayee and Jimmy Sheirgill. The tension builds as the group attempts to execute its plans while facing the possibility of being exposed by an investigation.
The film stands out for its focus on planning, deception and the fine line between a convincing performance and a criminal scheme falling apart.
6. Crew
Crew brings a different perspective to crime by placing three flight attendants at the centre of a gold-smuggling operation. When their airline faces financial difficulties, Geeta, Jasmine and Divya find themselves drawn into a complicated situation as they search for a way forward.
Played by Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon, respectively, the three women navigate financial pressure and increasingly risky circumstances. The film blends comedy with crime, showing how an unexpected opportunity can lead to decisions with serious consequences.
7. Chaar Yaar
Prime Video’s upcoming Hindi Original series Chaar Yaar follows four middle-class friends whose lives change dramatically after a single decision draws them into the criminal underworld. Set in early-2000s Mumbai, the story centres on Jay, Tony, Saahil and Sameer as they become entangled with gangsters and the police.
The eight-episode crime drama stars Prayrak Mehta, Saqib Ayub, Purav Jha and Naman Jain in the lead roles. Sai Tamhankar, Sikandar Kher, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Rajesh Tailang, Chunky Panday and Bhagavathi Perumal also feature in pivotal roles.
Unlike a straightforward tale of a planned robbery, the series explores how an unexpected turn can push ordinary people into circumstances they never intended to face. As the four friends become caught in a dangerous situation, their loyalty, choices and ability to survive are put to the test.
When and Where to Watch Chaar Yaar
With stories ranging from elaborate robberies and counterfeit currency to ambitious scams and unexpected criminal ventures, these films and series offer different takes on the risks and consequences of crossing into the world of crime.
Chaar Yaar adds another story to the genre, following four friends whose lives take a dangerous turn after one fateful decision.
The series premieres on October 23, 2026, exclusively on Prime Video.