Discover hidden gems of Indian thriller cinema beyond Bollywood. Explore must-watch, underrated Indian thrillers that deserve more attention.
Indian cinema is often synonymous with Bollywood’s grand musical numbers and star-studded blockbusters. However, beyond the glitz and glamour of mainstream Bollywood, there lies a treasure trove of lesser-known, gripping thriller films that have gone unnoticed. From regional masterpieces to indie thrillers, these films push storytelling boundaries, offering suspense, mystery, and intense drama. If you are a fan of thrillers, this list will introduce you to some of the best-hidden gems in Indian cinema that you shouldn’t miss.
The Rise of Regional and Indie Thriller Films in India
While Bollywood dominates the Indian film industry, regional cinema and indie productions have gained recognition for their bold storytelling, unique narratives, and experimental filmmaking techniques. From Tamil and Malayalam cinema to Bengali and Marathi films, Indian thrillers have evolved to compete with global standards.
Several factors contribute to the rise of these films:
- Diverse Storytelling:Â Regional filmmakers often draw inspiration from folklore, real-life incidents, and psychological elements, creating unique thrillers.
- Less Commercial Pressure:Â Unlike Bollywood, where box office numbers dictate filmmaking choices, indie and regional films have the liberty to experiment with storytelling and character depth.
- OTT Platforms:Â Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar have given lesser-known films a global audience.
Must-Watch Underrated Indian Thriller Films
1. Andhadhun (2018) – A Mind-Bending Mystery
- Director:Â Sriram Raghavan
- Language:Â Hindi
- Why Watch:Â Inspired by a French short film, this noir-style thriller keeps audiences guessing till the end. Featuring Ayushmann Khurrana as a blind pianist entangled in a murder case, “Andhadhun” is a masterclass in suspense and deception.
2. U-Turn (2016) – A Supernatural Thriller with a Twist
- Director:Â Pawan Kumar
- Language:Â Kannada (Remade in Telugu and Tamil)
- Why Watch:Â This gripping thriller follows a journalist investigating mysterious deaths at a flyover, only to find herself caught in a web of supernatural forces. The eerie atmosphere and unpredictable storyline make it a must-watch.
3. Super Deluxe (2019) – A Multi-Layered Dark Thriller
- Director:Â Thiagarajan Kumararaja
- Language:Â Tamil
- Why Watch:Â This unconventional thriller weaves multiple narratives together, exploring crime, morality, and human nature. Featuring Vijay Sethupathi in a groundbreaking role, the film challenges conventional storytelling.
4. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – A Gritty Crime Thriller
- Director:Â Midhun Manuel Thomas
- Language:Â Malayalam
- Why Watch:Â This neo-noir investigative thriller follows a criminologist assisting the police in catching a serial killer. The film keeps viewers engaged with its unexpected twists and dark psychological undertones.
5. Awe! (2018) – A Psychological Thriller Like No Other
- Director:Â Prasanth Varma
- Language:Â Telugu
- Why Watch: A psychological thriller that blends multiple genres, “Awe!” tells the interconnected stories of various characters, leading to a shocking revelation. The film’s innovative storytelling and strong performances make it a hidden gem.
6. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016) – A Disturbing Yet Brilliant Crime Thriller
- Director:Â Anurag Kashyap
- Language:Â Hindi
- Why Watch:Â Inspired by the real-life Mumbai serial killer, this film delves into the mind of a psychopathic murderer and a morally ambiguous cop. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s chilling performance makes it an unforgettable experience.
7. Vikram Vedha (2017) – A Classic Cop vs. Criminal Battle
- Director:Â Pushkar-Gayathri
- Language:Â Tamil
- Why Watch:Â Inspired by the Indian folklore of Vikram and Betaal, this cat-and-mouse thriller starring Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi is filled with engaging storytelling and ethical dilemmas.
8. Drishyam (2013) – A Perfect Crime Thriller
- Director:Â Jeethu Joseph
- Language:Â Malayalam (Remade in multiple languages)
- Why Watch:Â A gripping tale of an ordinary man who outsmarts the police to protect his family. With twists at every turn, “Drishyam” is a testament to brilliant storytelling in Indian cinema.
9. Tumbbad (2018) – A Fantasy Thriller Like No Other
- Director:Â Rahi Anil Barve
- Language:Â Hindi
- Why Watch:Â Blending horror, mythology, and thriller elements, “Tumbbad” explores greed and its consequences. The eerie visuals and compelling narrative make it a cinematic masterpiece.
10. Evaru (2019) – An Intelligent Thriller with a Stunning Climax
- Director:Â Venkat Ramji
- Language:Â Telugu
- Why Watch:Â A remake of the Spanish thriller “The Invisible Guest,” “Evaru” adds its own spin to the mystery genre, keeping viewers engaged till the final reveal.
The Future of Indian Thriller Films
The Indian film industry is witnessing a shift where thriller films are gaining popularity both locally and internationally. With the rise of OTT platforms, indie filmmakers are getting the opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience. In the coming years, we can expect even more innovative and high-quality thriller films emerging from various Indian film industries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are Indian thriller films often overlooked?
Many Indian thrillers, especially regional and indie films, lack the promotional budgets of mainstream Bollywood films, making them less visible to a wider audience.
2. Where can I watch these underrated Indian thriller films?
Most of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hotstar, and regional OTT services.
3. Are Indian thriller films influenced by Hollywood?
While some Indian thrillers draw inspiration from global cinema, they often incorporate unique storytelling elements, cultural influences, and local narratives that set them apart.
4. Which Indian regional industry produces the best thriller films?
The Malayalam and Tamil film industries are particularly known for their high-quality thriller films with strong narratives and unique storytelling techniques.
5. What makes Indian thrillers different from Western thrillers?
Indian thrillers often integrate deep-rooted cultural themes, moral dilemmas, and folklore elements, providing a unique cinematic experience that blends realism with drama.
Indian cinema has much more to offer beyond Bollywood, especially when it comes to thriller films. With captivating storylines, strong performances, and unique cultural influences, these underrated gems deserve recognition. Whether you’re a fan of crime mysteries, psychological thrillers, or supernatural suspense, this list of must-watch Indian thriller films will keep you on the edge of your seat. So, grab some popcorn and start exploring these thrilling cinematic experiences!
