3 Idiots
Two friends are searching for their long lost companion. They revisit their college days and recall the memories of their friend who inspired them to think differently, even as the rest of the world called them "idiots".
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani · Comedy · Drama · 170 min · 2009
Trailer
Director
Rajkumar Hirani
Writer
Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani
Studio
Vinod Chopra Films
Release
25 Dec 2009
Runtime
170 min
Genres
Comedy, Drama
Full Plot
Farhan Qureshi and Raju Rastogi want to re-unite with their fellow collegian, Rancho, after faking a stroke aboard an Air India plane, and excusing himself from his wife - trouser less - respectively. Enroute, they encounter another student, Chatur Ramalingam, now a successful businessman, who reminds them of a bet they had undertaken 10 years ago. The trio, while recollecting hilarious antics, including their run-ins with the Dean of Delhi's Imperial College of Engineering, Viru Sahastrabudhe, race to locate Rancho, at his last known address - little knowing the secret that was kept from them all this time.
Cast & Characters
Phunsukh Wangdu, alias Ranchhoddas "Rancho" Shamaldas Chanchad, friend of Raju and Farhan, Pia's love interest
Aamir Khan
Dr. Viru "Virus" Sahastrabuddhe, the strict, competitive director of ICE, father of Mona and Pia
Boman IraniPia Sahastrabuddhe, a medical student and the younger daughter of Viru, Mona's sister, Rancho's love interest
Kareena KapoorDid You Know?
Made on an estimated budget of $9.0M, 3 Idiots has grossed $70.0M worldwide — about 7.8x its budget.
Source: TMDb API · verified 2026-08-02
3 Idiots is part of TMDb's "3 Idiots Collection."
Source: TMDb API · verified 2026-08-02
Rajkumar Hirani has directed 4 films in our catalog, including Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., PK.
Source: theIReview.com catalog · verified 2026-08-02
Here are some key points about the movie "3 Idiots" (2009) directed by Rajkumar Hirani:
Source: Wikipedia · verified 2026-08-13
*Premiere and Release**
Source: Wikipedia · verified 2026-08-13
The film's premiere was held in Mumbai on December 25, 2009.
Source: Wikipedia · verified 2026-08-13
A special premiere in the United States and Canada was held prior to the Indian release.
Source: Wikipedia · verified 2026-08-13
Critical Assessment
3 Idiots holds 8.4/10 on IMDb (474,710 votes), 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 67/100 on Metacritic.
Not enough independent critic/audience score breakdown available.
Ratings as of August 3, 2026
Where to Watch
United States
United Kingdom
India
Streaming data from JustWatch via TMDb. Availability changes often — confirm on the provider before watching.
AI Verdict
AI-generatedBased on aggregated scores (8.4/10 on IMDb (474,710 votes), 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 67/100 on Metacritic), this is a data-driven snapshot rather than an editorial take.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 3 Idiots's Rotten Tomatoes score?+
3 Idiots holds a 100% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes.
What is 3 Idiots's IMDb rating?+
3 Idiots has a 8.4/10 rating on IMDb from 474,710 votes.
What is 3 Idiots's Metacritic score?+
3 Idiots has a Metascore of 67/100 on Metacritic.
Is 3 Idiots good? What are critics saying?+
3 Idiots holds 8.4/10 on IMDb (474,710 votes), 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 67/100 on Metacritic.
How long is 3 Idiots?+
3 Idiots has a runtime of 170 min.
Who directed 3 Idiots?+
3 Idiots was directed by Rajkumar Hirani.
Where can I watch 3 Idiots?+
3 Idiots is available to stream, rent, or buy on Google Play Movies, YouTube.
Fan & Critic Buzz
Aamir Khan shines in "3 Idiots" as he delivers a powerful performance. The film's message about following one's passion has resonated deeply with audiences, making it a must-watch. A 15-year YouTube video recommends the film randomly, while others praise its humor, emotion, and inspiration.
Viewer Reviews (TMDb)
Best Movie
alirazahub · 10/103 Idiots is a brilliant mix of humor, emotion, and inspiration. Aamir Khan shines, and the film’s message about following your passion really hits home. Funny, touching, and unforgettable—a must-watch!
From the trailer's comments
YouTube suggest this masterpiece after 15 year 💀
@waagameera9394 · 468 likesyoutube recommend me randomly after 15 years 🤣🤣😂🤣
@dakkugamer7769 · 622 likesAfter Dunki Teaser. I think 3 idiots ka teaser bhi extra oridinary nai tha but movie kamaal thi. Raju Hirani saves all the best moments for the movie
@gursimranbrar8579 · 520 likesi rewatched this movie more than 10 times actually, and i'll never get tired of it
@youichizseiei · 1610 likesthe best Indian movie ever. friendship sense from this movie is so touch my heart. love from Indonesia.
@wahyudiyudi5799 · 958 likesNever seen a great movie like this. This is THE greatest movie on earth. Such a shame americans only make movies with guns. Why can't they make meaningful and movie like India!!!!
@ehrhdalfk · 927 likesI am from Philippines and I consider this movie as the best non-Philippine film I've ever seen. It is a total package with adventure, drama, comedy, music, etc. And I learned some life lessons here.
@garibee1 · 149 likesAfter watching dunki trailer just confirming here that DUNKI will be a blockbuster
@entertainyou2559 · 55 likes
