Discover India’s hidden psychological thrillers that deserve more recognition. These underrated must-watch films will leave you spellbound with their gripping narratives and mind-bending twists.
Psychological thrillers have always been a fascinating genre, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with intricate storytelling, complex characters, and unexpected twists. While Bollywood and regional Indian cinema have produced some critically acclaimed thrillers, many gems have slipped under the mainstream radar. If you’re a fan of cerebral storytelling and gripping suspense, here’s a list of must-watch Indian psychological thrillers that deserve more attention.
1. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
This neo-noir psychological thriller delves deep into the psyche of a serial killer and a drug-addicted cop. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a chilling performance as a man inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav, making it one of the most unsettling yet brilliant thrillers in Indian cinema.
2. 13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)
Director: Vikram K. Kumar
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A psychological horror-thriller that revolves around a family whose television set begins predicting eerie future events. With Madhavan in the lead role, this film keeps you hooked with its unique premise and an unpredictable climax.
3. Ugly (2013)
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
Anurag Kashyap once again crafts a dark, psychological narrative that explores the depths of human nature. The film follows a kidnapping case that spirals into a tangled web of deceit, desperation, and psychological turmoil.
4. Game Over (2019)
Director: Ashwin Saravanan
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A psychological thriller with horror elements, Game Over stars Taapsee Pannu as a game designer dealing with PTSD and a home invasion. The film brilliantly blurs the lines between reality and imagination, keeping the audience guessing until the very end.
5. Phobia (2016)
Director: Pawan Kripalani
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
This film stars Radhika Apte as an agoraphobic woman trapped in her own apartment, experiencing psychological distress and supernatural elements. Phobia is a masterclass in psychological horror, playing with the viewer’s perception and fear.
6. Tumbbad (2018)
Director: Rahi Anil Barve
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A psychological horror-thriller rooted in mythology, Tumbbad tells the haunting tale of greed and its consequences. The eerie atmosphere, unsettling visuals, and deeply psychological themes make it a standout thriller.
7. Evaru (2019)
Director: Venkat Ramji
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A Telugu psychological thriller inspired by the Spanish film The Invisible Guest, Evaru unfolds through a series of gripping twists, centering around a murder investigation where nothing is as it seems.
8. Kaun? (1999)
Director: Ram Gopal Varma
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
This classic psychological thriller, starring Urmila Matondkar and Manoj Bajpayee, keeps you on the edge with its eerie single-location setting and an unpredictable climax. A must-watch for fans of psychological horror.
9. Shaitan (2011)
Director: Bejoy Nambiar
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A fast-paced psychological thriller that explores the reckless lives of five friends who get involved in a crime that spirals out of control. The film’s gritty storytelling and psychological depth make it a compelling watch.
10. Psycho Raman (2016)
Director: Mysskin
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
A Tamil psychological thriller inspired by the notorious Raman Raghav, this film explores the disturbed mind of a serial killer and his eerie connection with a police officer.
Indian cinema has produced some truly remarkable psychological thrillers that remain underrated despite their brilliance. These films not only offer thrilling narratives but also dive deep into human psychology, fear, and suspense. If you’re looking for something beyond mainstream Bollywood thrillers, these hidden gems are worth exploring.
FAQ
1. What makes a psychological thriller different from other thrillers?
Psychological thrillers focus on the mental and emotional states of the characters, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion, unlike action or crime thrillers, which emphasize physical suspense.
2. Are Indian psychological thrillers as good as Hollywood ones?
Absolutely! Indian psychological thrillers have unique cultural influences and storytelling techniques that make them just as engaging and impactful as their Hollywood counterparts.
3. Where can I watch these psychological thrillers?
Many of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar.
4. Which Indian psychological thriller has the best plot twist?
Films like Ugly, Evaru, and Kaun? are known for their unpredictable and mind-bending plot twists.
5. Are there any upcoming Indian psychological thrillers to look out for?
Yes! Indian cinema continues to experiment with psychological thrillers, and several new films in the genre are set to release soon. Stay tuned for updates!
By exploring these films, you’ll discover the depth and brilliance of Indian psychological thrillers that deserve more recognition. So, which one will you watch first?
