Discover 10 underrated Indian thriller films that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss these hidden gems packed with suspense, mystery, and intrigue!
Indian cinema is often associated with grand Bollywood musicals, but beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of intense and gripping thrillers. While big-budget films like “Andhadhun” and “Drishyam” have gained global recognition, many equally compelling thrillers remain underappreciated. If you’re a fan of suspenseful storytelling, here are 10 hidden gem Indian thriller films that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Manorama Six Feet Under (2007)
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
A neo-noir thriller directed by Navdeep Singh, this film stars Abhay Deol as an amateur detective who stumbles upon a sinister conspiracy while investigating an extramarital affair. Inspired by Roman Polanski’s “Chinatown,” this slow-burn thriller keeps you guessing until the very end.
2. Kahaani 2: Durga Rani Singh (2016)
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
While “Kahaani” (2012) is widely celebrated, its sequel remains an underrated masterpiece. Starring Vidya Balan, the film dives into themes of abuse and injustice while maintaining a taut, suspenseful narrative that leaves audiences captivated.
3. Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012)
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Starring Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Kareena Kapoor, this psychological thriller blends supernatural elements with a gripping murder mystery. Despite its stellar performances and eerie atmosphere, “Talaash” often gets overshadowed by more commercial Bollywood releases.
4. Table No. 21 (2013)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
This psychological thriller features Rajeev Khandelwal and Paresh Rawal in a dark, twisted game of survival. With a strong social message and unexpected twists, “Table No. 21” is an underrated film that deserves more attention.
5. Ugly (2013)
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Anurag Kashyap’s “Ugly” is a haunting thriller that explores the dark side of human nature. The film follows the disappearance of a young girl, unraveling a web of deceit and desperation. With its raw storytelling and gritty cinematography, “Ugly” is a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.
6. Phobia (2016)
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
This psychological thriller starring Radhika Apte delves into the mind of a woman suffering from agoraphobia. As she becomes trapped in her own home, eerie occurrences make her question reality. A gripping and intense experience, “Phobia” is an underrated gem in the thriller genre.
7. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Loosely inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav, this film, directed by Anurag Kashyap, presents a chilling cat-and-mouse game between a deranged murderer and a morally ambiguous cop. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s terrifying performance elevates this psychological thriller.
8. Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (2018)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
A unique mix of action, comedy, and thriller elements, this film follows a young man with a rare condition that prevents him from feeling pain. While not a conventional thriller, its fast-paced narrative and unpredictable twists make it an exciting watch.
9. Game Over (2019)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Starring Taapsee Pannu, “Game Over” is a psychological thriller with elements of horror. The film revolves around a video game designer who battles past trauma while being trapped inside her home by an unknown threat. It’s an intense and mind-bending experience.
10. Dobaaraa (2022)
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, “Dobaaraa” is a sci-fi thriller inspired by the Spanish film “Mirage.” It explores time loops and parallel universes, offering a refreshing take on the thriller genre. The film’s intelligent storytelling and gripping suspense make it a hidden gem.
While mainstream Indian thrillers often take the spotlight, these hidden gems offer a rich and diverse cinematic experience. Whether you enjoy psychological mind games, intense crime dramas, or supernatural twists, these films deliver top-notch suspense and storytelling. So, grab some popcorn and start your journey into India’s lesser-known but equally thrilling cinematic world.
FAQ
1. Are these films available on streaming platforms?
Yes, many of these films are available on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar.
2. Which film is the best for psychological thriller fans?
“Ugly” and “Phobia” are excellent choices for fans of psychological thrillers.
3. Are these films in Hindi only?
Most of these films are in Hindi, but some may have regional language versions or subtitles available.
4. What makes these films hidden gems?
Despite critical acclaim, these films haven’t received mainstream commercial success, making them underrated masterpieces.
5. Are these films suitable for family viewing?
Some films contain intense themes and violence, so viewer discretion is advised.
These 10 hidden gems prove that Indian thrillers go beyond mainstream hits, offering innovative storytelling and gripping narratives. Which one will you watch first? Let us know!
