As the big Indian dramas are hogging headlines, Netflix has a treasure trove of unsung masterpieces. They’re not big blockbuster hits of course, but if you turn your nose up at these, you’re missing out on some action-driven, character-rich, edge-of-your-seat storytelling. Whether you’re a thriller reading veteran or someone just looking for some new stories, we offer a curated list of hidden gems that are sure to keep you entertained and engaged.
1. Khufiya (2023)
- Director: Vishal Bhardwaj
- Cast: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Spy Thriller
- Runtime: 157 minutes(GQ India, Wikipedia)
Based on Amar Bhushan’s book, Escape to Nowhere, Khufiya is set in the secret world of spooks. The story revolves around Krishna Mehra, an operative for RAW, as she attempts to restore justice above black and white to India. Featuring great acting performances and a suspenseful plot, the movie gives new meaning to the spy-thriller genre. (Wikipedia, Pinkvilla)
2. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
- Director: Honey Trehan
- Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Runtime: 149 minutes(Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
A gripping whodunit set in a small town, Raat Akeli Hai centers on Inspector Jatil Yadav’s investigation into a high-profile murder. As secrets unravel, the film explores themes of power, family, and societal norms, making it a compelling watch. (Wikipedia)
3. Irul (2021)
- Director: Naseef Yusuf Izuddin
- Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir, Darshana Rajendran
- Language: Malayalam
- Genre: Mystery Thriller
- Runtime: 91 minutes(Wikipedia, IFORHER)
Irul unfolds over a single night, weaving a tense narrative around a couple seeking shelter in a stranger’s house during a storm. As the night progresses, suspicions arise, leading to a chilling climax. (Wikipedia)
4. Garbage (2018)
- Director: Qaushiq Mukherjee (Q)
- Cast: Trimala Adhikari, Tanmay Dhanania
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Psychological Thriller
- Runtime: 109 minutes(Wikipedia, Lifewire, Wikipedia)
A dark exploration of trauma and societal decay, Garbage follows a taxi driver entangled in a web of violence and obsession. Premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival, this film challenges viewers with its unflinching portrayal of human depravity. (Wikipedia)
5. Talvar (2015)
- Director: Meghna Gulzar
- Cast: Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Runtime: 132 minutes(India Today, Wikipedia, Lifewire)
Based on the infamous Noida double murder case, Talvar presents multiple perspectives on the investigation, highlighting systemic flaws and media sensationalism. Irrfan Khan’s portrayal of the investigative officer adds depth to this thought-provoking narrative. (India Today)
6. Footfairy (2020)
- Director: Kanishk Verma
- Cast: Gulshan Devaiah, Sagarika Ghatge
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Psychological Thriller
- Runtime: 114 minutes(GQ India, Marie Claire, Lifewire, IFORHER)
Footfairy delves into the mind of a serial killer with a peculiar fetish, as a determined CBI officer races against time to prevent further murders. The film’s eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot keep viewers on edge. (GQ India)
7. Bhakshak (2023)
- Director: Pulkit
- Cast: Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Runtime: Not specified(Wikipedia, Lifewire)
Inspired by real events, Bhakshak follows a journalist’s relentless pursuit of justice for abused girls in a shelter home. The film sheds light on systemic corruption and the power of investigative journalism. (GQ India)
8. Dobaaraa (2022)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Cast: Taapsee Pannu, Pavail Gulati
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller
- Runtime: 132 minutes(Pinkvilla, Lifewire, Wikipedia)
A remake of the Spanish film Mirage, Dobaaraa intertwines time travel with a murder mystery. As the protagonist attempts to alter past events, unforeseen consequences unfold, challenging perceptions of reality. (Pinkvilla)
9. Grandmaster (2012)
- Director: B. Unnikrishnan
- Cast: Mohanlal, Priyamani
- Language: Malayalam
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Runtime: 130 minutes(Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
Grandmaster features a seasoned police officer drawn into a cat-and-mouse game with a serial killer. As the investigation deepens, personal and professional boundaries blur, leading to a gripping climax. (Wikipedia)
10. No One Killed Jessica (2011)
- Director: Raj Kumar Gupta
- Cast: Vidya Balan, Rani Mukerji
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Runtime: 136 minutes(Wikipedia, Marie Claire)
Inspired from Jessica Lal murder case, it follows the fight for justice against the backdrop of influence in politics and media. With its strong cast and gripping storytelling it is one of the big thriller hits.
Netflix India has an enviable line-up of some of the most innovative and captivating thrillers, which are often underrated. These movies don’t always get the spotlight, but they offer plenty of compelling storytelling and food for thought. Opening these treasuries guarantees a rich movie-hunting for the fans of thrillers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these films available in languages other than Hindi? Yes, some films like Irul and Grandmaster are in Malayalam, offering regional narratives with universal appeal.(Wikipedia)
Q2: Do these films have subtitles? Most films on Netflix come with English subtitles, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Q3: Are these films based on true events? Yes, films like Talvar, Bhakshak, and No One Killed Jessica draw inspiration from real-life incidents, adding depth to their narratives.(Pinkvilla)
Q4: Can I watch these films outside India? Availability varies by region, but many of these films are accessible internationally on Netflix.
Q5: Are these films suitable for all age groups? These thrillers often contain mature themes and are best suited for adult audiences.
