Discover the 10 best regional Indian thriller films that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From gripping narratives to intense performances, these must-watch thrillers will leave you spellbound!
India’s film industry extends far beyond Bollywood, producing some of the most thrilling and suspenseful movies in various regional languages. From Tamil and Malayalam to Bengali and Kannada, Indian regional cinema has delivered some incredible thriller films that deserve global recognition. If you’re a fan of gripping narratives, unexpected twists, and adrenaline-pumping suspense, this list of 10 must-watch regional Indian thriller films is for you. Get ready for an edge-of-the-seat experience!
1. Drishyam (2013) – Malayalam
Director: Jeethu Joseph
A cult classic in the Indian thriller genre, Drishyam follows the story of a man who goes to extreme lengths to protect his family from a crime investigation. With an outstanding performance by Mohanlal, this film is packed with suspense and emotional depth, making it a must-watch.
Why watch it?
- Masterful storytelling with unpredictable twists.
- Remade in multiple languages but the original Malayalam version remains unmatched.
2. Super Deluxe (2019) – Tamil
Director: Thiagarajan Kumararaja
This neo-noir thriller interweaves multiple storylines, presenting a unique cinematic experience. With stellar performances from Vijay Sethupathi, Fahadh Faasil, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Super Deluxe is an unpredictable rollercoaster ride that keeps you hooked till the end.
Why watch it?
- Intricate storytelling with dark humor and suspense.
- Visually stunning and full of surprises.
3. Vikram Vedha (2017) – Tamil
Director: Pushkar-Gayathri
A gritty cat-and-mouse chase between a ruthless gangster (Vijay Sethupathi) and a determined cop (R. Madhavan), Vikram Vedha is a thought-provoking thriller inspired by the folklore of Vikram-Betaal.
Why watch it?
- Intelligent screenplay with moral dilemmas.
- Brilliant performances and thrilling action sequences.
4. Evaru (2019) – Telugu
Director: Venkat Ramji
A remake of the Spanish film The Invisible Guest, Evaru keeps viewers engaged with its mind-bending twists and engaging performances by Adivi Sesh and Regina Cassandra.
Why watch it?
- Intense plot with multiple layers of mystery.
- Keeps you guessing till the last moment.
5. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – Malayalam
Director: Midhun Manuel Thomas
This psychological crime thriller revolves around a criminologist who assists the police in tracking down a serial killer. With unpredictable plot twists and eerie suspense, Anjaam Pathiraa is a must-watch.
Why watch it?
- Gripping screenplay with a haunting atmosphere.
- A fresh take on the serial killer genre in Indian cinema.
6. Kahaani (2012) – Bengali
Director: Sujoy Ghosh
Featuring Vidya Balan in a career-defining role, Kahaani tells the story of a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata. The film’s twist ending is legendary in Indian thriller history.
Why watch it?
- Unpredictable climax that leaves a lasting impact.
- Strong female protagonist with a compelling story.
7. Ratsasan (2018) – Tamil
Director: Ram Kumar
A psychological crime thriller about a rookie cop hunting a brutal serial killer, Ratsasan is an edge-of-the-seat experience that doesn’t let go until the last frame.
Why watch it?
- One of the best serial killer thrillers in Indian cinema.
- Taut screenplay with nerve-wracking suspense.
8. Mumbai Police (2013) – Malayalam
Director: Rosshan Andrrews
An intense and unconventional thriller, Mumbai Police follows a cop suffering from amnesia as he tries to retrace his steps to solve a murder mystery.
Why watch it?
- Unique narrative structure with a stunning climax.
- Excellent performance by Prithviraj Sukumaran.
9. U-Turn (2016) – Kannada
Director: Pawan Kumar
A supernatural thriller with a social message, U-Turn revolves around mysterious deaths linked to a traffic violation. The eerie atmosphere and engaging storyline make this film unforgettable.
Why watch it?
- Fresh take on supernatural thrillers.
- Intriguing and unpredictable storytelling.
10. Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru (2016) – Tamil
Director: Karthick Naren
A retired cop recalls a case that changed his life in this critically acclaimed neo-noir thriller. With a gripping non-linear narrative and an unexpected twist, this film is a must-watch.
Why watch it?
- Brilliantly structured screenplay.
- Thought-provoking and suspenseful till the end.
Regional Indian cinema offers some of the most thrilling and engaging movies that rival Hollywood in terms of storytelling and execution. Whether you enjoy crime mysteries, psychological thrillers, or neo-noir dramas, these 10 must-watch regional Indian thriller films will keep you hooked and wanting more. So, grab your popcorn and dive into the world of suspense and mystery!
FAQ
1. Which is the best regional Indian thriller of all time?
While opinions vary, Drishyam (2013) is widely considered one of the best Indian thrillers due to its intelligent storytelling and emotional depth.
2. Are these movies available on streaming platforms?
Yes, most of these films are available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Hotstar.
3. Which regional industry produces the best thrillers?
The Malayalam and Tamil film industries are known for producing some of the finest thrillers with gripping narratives and unique storytelling.
4. Are there English subtitles available for these films?
Yes, most regional films come with English subtitles, making them accessible to a wider audience.
5. What are some upcoming regional thriller films to watch out for?
Upcoming films like Bramayugam (Malayalam) and Thug Life (Tamil) are generating buzz as must-watch thrillers in 2024.
If you love thrilling and suspenseful cinema, these regional Indian movies are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Which of these thrillers are you excited to watch? Let us know in the comments!
