Discover 10 underrated Indian thrillers that deserve your attention. These dark horses of Indian cinema will keep you on the edge of your seat with their gripping narratives and stellar performances.
When it comes to thrillers, Bollywood and regional Indian cinema have delivered some of the most gripping, thought-provoking, and intense films over the years. However, many hidden gems often get overshadowed by mainstream blockbusters. These underrated thrillers boast strong narratives, stellar performances, and edge-of-the-seat suspense.
If you’re a fan of thrillers and looking for something off the beaten path, here are 10 underrated Indian thrillers that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. No Smoking (2007)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Language: Hindi
- Why Watch: Psychological horror-thriller with a Kafkaesque touch
A film that was ahead of its time, No Smoking is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of addiction and free will. Starring John Abraham in one of his most unique roles, the movie is packed with surreal visuals and an unsettling narrative.
2. Aaranya Kaandam (2010)
- Director: Thiagarajan Kumararaja
- Language: Tamil
- Why Watch: Neo-noir crime thriller with stunning cinematography
This dark and gritty crime thriller is considered a cult classic in Tamil cinema. With a non-linear narrative and compelling performances, Aaranya Kaandam immerses viewers in the ruthless world of gangsters.
3. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Language: Hindi
- Why Watch: A chilling portrayal of a serial killer
Inspired by real-life serial killer Raman Raghav, this film features a gripping performance by Nawazuddin Siddiqui. It is an intense psychological thriller that explores the mind of a disturbed individual.
4. U-Turn (2016)
- Director: Pawan Kumar
- Language: Kannada
- Why Watch: Supernatural thriller with an intriguing premise
A journalist investigating mysterious road accidents gets caught in a web of eerie events. The film effectively blends supernatural elements with suspenseful storytelling.
5. Tumbbad (2018)
- Director: Rahi Anil Barve
- Language: Hindi
- Why Watch: A unique blend of horror and mythology
Tumbbad is a visually stunning film that masterfully combines horror, suspense, and folklore. It tells the tale of a family’s greed and the horrifying consequences of their actions.
6. Kahaani 2 (2016)
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Language: Hindi
- Why Watch: A gripping sequel with strong performances
Although Kahaani (2012) was widely acclaimed, its sequel remains underrated. With Vidya Balan delivering another powerful performance, Kahaani 2 offers a thrilling ride with unexpected twists.
7. Visaranai (2015)
- Director: Vetrimaaran
- Language: Tamil
- Why Watch: A realistic, hard-hitting crime thriller
Based on true events, Visaranai exposes police brutality and corruption. The intense storytelling and raw performances make it an unforgettable watch.
8. Game Over (2019)
- Director: Ashwin Saravanan
- Language: Tamil/Hindi
- Why Watch: Psychological thriller with an innovative narrative
Featuring Taapsee Pannu in a powerful role, Game Over is a suspenseful thriller that intertwines trauma, survival, and a gripping mystery.
9. Evaru (2019)
- Director: Venkat Ramji
- Language: Telugu
- Why Watch: A smart thriller with unpredictable twists
This gripping murder mystery, inspired by The Invisible Guest, keeps the audience guessing till the very end. Adivi Sesh’s performance adds depth to the intricate storyline.
10. Andhadhun (2018)
- Director: Sriram Raghavan
- Language: Hindi
- Why Watch: A masterclass in suspense and black comedy
While Andhadhun received critical acclaim, it still remains underrated among international audiences. With its unpredictable plot and stellar performances, it’s a must-watch for thriller fans.
Indian cinema has produced some of the most compelling thrillers, yet many remain underappreciated. The films listed above offer a mix of psychological tension, crime, horror, and suspense—perfect for any thriller enthusiast. If you’re tired of the usual mainstream hits, give these hidden gems a chance. You won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
1. What makes a thriller movie underrated?
Underrated thrillers are films that receive limited attention despite strong storytelling, performances, and direction. They may not have performed well at the box office or lacked sufficient marketing.
2. Where can I watch these movies?
Most of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, and ZEE5.
3. Are these thrillers suitable for all audiences?
Some of these movies contain violence, psychological intensity, and dark themes. Viewer discretion is advised.
4. Why are regional Indian thrillers underrated?
Language barriers, limited distribution, and marketing challenges often result in regional films being less recognized compared to mainstream Bollywood productions.
5. What is the best Indian thriller for beginners?
If you’re new to Indian thrillers, Andhadhun and Kahaani 2 are great starting points due to their engaging narratives and strong performances.
Do you have any favorite underrated Indian thrillers? Let us know in the comments!
