When we consider mystery films, our thoughts can quickly fly to Western cinema, from Tens Hollywood’s most famous films right down to the newest crime thriller. But India has, after all, a large and varied cinematic legacy: Some of the most exciting, strange, and downright underseen films and series have so far slipped through the cracks on the global stage.
World’s number one streaming platform, Netflix has a huge library of content and among that many Indian mystery thrillers that do not get mainstream attention, it deserves to have. If you’re into mystery, psychological drama or edge of the seat thrillers, there are many under-the-radar picks in Netflix’s Indian basket that you should not miss.
This post is on the little & underrated Indian mystery thriller films you must watch on Netflix. From gripping narratives to unexpected twists, these shows and movies will keep you at the edge of your seat.
Why Indian Mystery Thrillers Are Worth Watching
Before we dive into specific titles, let’s first explore why Indian mystery thrillers deserve a spot on your watchlist.
Rich Storytelling Tradition
While Bollywood and regional film industries have been storytelling goldmines, Indian cinema is full of varied storytelling traditions. But in India, mystery thrillers don’t stick to the rules: genres often get mixed – with drama, suspense, crime and psychological tension thrown together to paint an entirely different magic on screen. Such are some of my favorite elements of movies in which the mystery genre is tinged with richly developed characters and especially well-drawn worlds that add another dimension to an already complex mystery.
Intense Atmosphere and Suspense
Unlike their Western counterparts, many Indian mystery thrillers tend to focus more on the slow build-up of tension rather than high-paced action scenes. The atmosphere is often dark, and the suspense is palpable, making it a delight for fans of slow-burn storytelling.
Cultural Nuances and Unique Perspectives
There is very much a certain cultural perspective in watching Indian mystery thrillers. It’s their combination of local colour, social issues and old, old folklore that makes them irresistible: there’s nothing better than a country noir for keeping you in the dark. Be it in lively cities or peaceful rural locations, these films and shows give it a realness that is often lacking in world cinema thrillers from other parts of the globe.
5 Underrated Indian Mystery Thrillers on Netflix You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
Director: Honey Trehan Starring: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte, Shweta Tripathi
Raat Akeli Hai is a psychological crime thriller which is set in the heartland of India. When a newlywed bride is killed on her wedding night, a local cop (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) is summoned to investigate. What follows is a dense network of family lies, deception, and treachery. Creepy visuals, moody setting, and intricate story makes this a film that will keep you guessing until the end! Raat Akeli Hai is a prime example of how Indian cinema delivers gripping suspense without relying on extravagant action scenes.
Why Watch It? The brilliant performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte, combined with the moody cinematography and unexpected twists, make this film a must-watch for fans of suspense thrillers.
2. Sacred Games (2018)
Director: Vikramaditya Motwane, Anurag Kashyap Starring: Saif Ali Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte
Inspired by the critically-acclaimed novel by Vikram Chandra, Sacred Games is a tale of crime and betrayal, of violence and young love, set against the backdrop of the city of Mumbai. The story charts the path of a gloomy, tense policeman (Saif Ali Khan) who discovers a diabolical conspiracy at the same time that he’s swooping into the underworld of a city. It’s a blend of historical fiction meets mythology meets crime thriller with dark and gritty story lines.
Why Watch It? This Netflix original is a unique blend of crime, mystery, and thriller. With an exceptional cast and a narrative that spans multiple timelines, Sacred Games is a binge-worthy series for lovers of intense thrillers.
3. The Lunchbox (2013)
Director: Ritesh Batra Starring: Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
The Lunchbox is classified as a romance drama but contains an interesting mystery lore that keeps you intrigued throughout the film. The film is centred on the mistaken delivery of a lunchbox and the relationship that blossoms between a lonely office worker (Irrfan Khan) and a young housewife (Nimrat Kaur). The slow mystery around the lunchbox and its quirky twist make this one of the lesser known good mystery movies in India.
Why Watch It? The slow-burn mystery, combined with brilliant performances and a touching storyline, makes The Lunchbox a unique experience. It’s a refreshing take on the mystery genre, layered with emotions and intrigue.
4. Mirzapur (2018)
Director: Karan Anshuman, Gurmeet Singh Starring: Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Vikrant Massey
With a classic guns, drugs and violence backdrop in the crime-ridden town of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, this Amazon Prime series (which is now available on Netflix too) is the stuff wiith which nightmares are made. The narrative is centered on the ascent of a small-town man into the underworld after a murder. Mirzapur is the perfect crime, thriller, and drama combination whose mystery keeps you bamboozled everytime.
Why Watch It? The show’s gripping narrative, excellent character arcs, and suspenseful twists make it a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers. The dark and violent world of Mirzapur provides a fascinating backdrop for the story.
5. Tumbbad (2018)
Director: Rahi Anil Barve Starring: Sohum Shah, Jyoti Malshe, Anita Date
Sleepwalker or reality? It follows the mythical story of the demon ) This film is a mix of horror, fantasy and mystery. The story revolves around the finding of a buried treasure in a town that is cursed by other worldly denizens. The movie’s haunting visuals, macabre mood and chilling soundtrack will transport you into the film’s stark reality.
Why Watch It? Tumbbad is a cinematic masterpiece that combines Indian mythology with a mystery thriller. Its dark tone and unsettling visuals, paired with a compelling storyline, set it apart from typical thrillers.
How to Choose the Best Indian Mystery Thriller for You
With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the best Indian mystery thriller to watch. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Consider the Genre: Some Indian thrillers blend horror, crime, and fantasy. If you enjoy a supernatural element, Tumbbad might be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer more grounded crime thrillers, Raat Akeli Hai or Sacred Games are excellent choices.
- Watch for Star Performances: Bollywood and regional cinema are home to some of the best actors in the industry. If you enjoy watching powerhouse performances, films featuring Nawazuddin Siddiqui (Sacred Games, Raat Akeli Hai) and Irrfan Khan (The Lunchbox) are sure to impress.
- Pay Attention to the Setting: Many Indian thrillers are rooted in their settings. If you enjoy atmospheric, rural settings, Raat Akeli Hai is a great option. For a more urban experience, Sacred Games offers the gritty streets of Mumbai.
Indian cinema has always experimented with different genres and interesting stories and mystery thrillers have always been one of the favorites of film afficianados and over the years, Indian filmmakers have shaped well some of the best thrillers that have been told on screen. If you’re a fan of mind-boggling plots, heart-pounding suspense and unforgettable characters, these underrated Indian mystery thrillers mentioned in this post are definitely worth checking out. Whether they’re dark, gritty crime dramas or otherworldly, atmospheric thrillers with a dash of the supernatural, these are the shows and movies that’ll keep you in suspense all the way until the final credits roll.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a mystery thriller, don’t forget to check out these hidden gems on Netflix. They may just surprise you!
FAQs
1. Are these Indian mystery thrillers available globally on Netflix? Yes, most of these films and series are available internationally on Netflix. However, availability may vary based on your region.
2. What makes Indian mystery thrillers different from Western ones? Indian mystery thrillers often incorporate cultural nuances, unique storytelling techniques, and a slower buildup of suspense. They are also known for blending genres, creating a distinctive cinematic experience.
3. Which Indian thriller has the best plot twist? Raat Akeli Hai is a great choice for those who love unpredictable plot twists and complex character developments.
4. Can I watch these thrillers with subtitles? Yes, most of these films and series come with English subtitles, making them accessible to a wider audience.
5. Are there any other underrated Indian thrillers worth watching? Apart from the ones mentioned, you might also want to check out Andhadhun (2018) and Drishyam (2015), both of which are highly praised in the thriller genre.
