Discover 10 underrated Indian thriller films that deserve more recognition. From psychological suspense to crime dramas, these hidden gems will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Indian cinema is often associated with colorful musicals and grand romance, but the industry also boasts a rich collection of intense, well-crafted thriller films. While mainstream Bollywood thrillers like Andhadhun and Kahaani have received widespread acclaim, many outstanding thrillers remain underappreciated.
In this article, we highlight 10 underrated Indian thriller films that deserve more recognition. Whether you love psychological thrillers, crime dramas, or mystery-driven narratives, these movies will provide a gripping cinematic experience.
1. Ugly (2013)
Director: Anurag Kashyap
A dark and unsettling thriller, Ugly revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a young girl and the murky world of greed, corruption, and human depravity that unfolds in the aftermath. The film masterfully builds tension, offering a chilling commentary on the darker sides of human nature.
2. Talaash (2012)
Director: Reema Kagti
While Talaash gained some attention, it remains underappreciated compared to other Bollywood thrillers. This psychological mystery, starring Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Kareena Kapoor, explores themes of loss, grief, and the supernatural. The gripping screenplay and eerie atmosphere make it a must-watch.
3. A Death in the Gunj (2016)
Director: Konkona Sen Sharma
This slow-burning psychological thriller presents an immersive look at family dynamics, societal expectations, and inner turmoil. A Death in the Gunj is hauntingly beautiful, with exceptional performances and a growing sense of dread that culminates in a shocking climax.
4. NH10 (2015)
Director: Navdeep Singh
A raw and intense thriller, NH10 follows a couple on a road trip that takes a deadly turn when they cross paths with violent criminals. Anushka Sharma delivers a powerful performance in this gripping survival thriller that sheds light on gender-based violence in rural India.
5. Evaru (2019)
Director: Venkat Ramji
This Telugu-language thriller is a remake of the Spanish film The Invisible Guest, but it adds unique layers of suspense and drama. With unexpected twists and strong performances, Evaru keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
6. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Inspired by a real-life serial killer, Raman Raghav 2.0 is an unnerving psychological thriller about a cat-and-mouse game between a psychotic murderer and a troubled cop. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s chilling performance is a highlight of this gritty and intense film.
7. 13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)
Director: Vikram K. Kumar
Blending supernatural horror with thriller elements, 13B revolves around a family that starts experiencing eerie events linked to a mysterious television show. The film cleverly balances suspense and horror, keeping audiences hooked until the final reveal.
8. Kaun? (1999)
Director: Ram Gopal Varma
A psychological thriller set entirely in one house, Kaun? features a chilling narrative with just three main characters. Urmila Matondkar delivers a standout performance in this film, which masterfully builds paranoia and tension.
9. Section 375 (2019)
Director: Ajay Bahl
A courtroom thriller tackling the complexities of sexual assault laws in India, Section 375 presents a thought-provoking legal drama. With powerful performances by Akshaye Khanna and Richa Chadha, this film leaves audiences questioning their moral compass.
10. Game Over (2019)
Director: Ashwin Saravanan
This psychological thriller blends elements of horror and suspense to tell the gripping story of a woman trapped in her own home, forced to battle both physical and mental demons. With Taapsee Pannu in the lead, Game Over is a unique thriller that keeps viewers on edge.
Indian cinema has produced some of the most intriguing and well-crafted thriller films, many of which have flown under the radar. The films on this list showcase a variety of sub-genres, from psychological horror to legal dramas, proving that Indian thrillers can be just as engaging as their Hollywood counterparts.
If you’re looking for a fresh cinematic experience filled with suspense, twists, and gripping narratives, these underrated gems are definitely worth your time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are these Indian thrillers underrated?
Many of these films did not receive extensive marketing, clashed with bigger releases, or appealed to niche audiences, leading to limited mainstream recognition.
2. Where can I watch these thriller films?
Several of these movies are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar. Availability may vary based on your region.
3. Are these films suitable for all audiences?
Most of these thrillers are intended for mature audiences due to intense themes, violence, or psychological content. Viewer discretion is advised.
4. Which is the best underrated Indian thriller?
While personal preference plays a huge role, Ugly and Raman Raghav 2.0 are often considered among the best underrated Indian thrillers due to their gripping narratives and powerful performances.
5. Are there any upcoming Indian thriller films to watch out for?
Yes! Indian cinema continues to experiment with thriller genres. Keep an eye on upcoming projects from directors like Anurag Kashyap, Sriram Raghavan, and Vikramaditya Motwane for more suspenseful narratives.
