Indian films have a history of rich storytelling and varied genres, which have been cherished by the audience for the past several years. Falling into this category is the thriller genre, which combines suspense, drama, and psychological complexity for people at home. Whether it’s labyrinthine heists or brain-twisting tales of psychological suspense, the Indian big screen has it all, serving up movies that entertain and thrill, while leaving you pondering and debating long after the credits have rolled.
In this article, we delve into some of the most compelling Indian thriller movies that span various sub-genres, languages, and storytelling styles. Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or a newcomer to Indian cinema, these films promise to keep you engaged and intrigued.
Psychological Thrillers: Delving into the Human Psyche
1. Andhadhun (2018)
- Director: Sriram Raghavan
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A blind pianist becomes entangled in a series of mysterious events, leading to unexpected twists and turns.
- Why Watch: Praised for its unpredictable plot and stellar performances, “Andhadhun” keeps viewers guessing until the very end.(ZEE5, Vogue India)
2. Phobia (2016)
- Director: Pavan Kirpalani
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: An artist suffering from severe agoraphobia begins to experience terrifying events in her new apartment.
- Why Watch: The film offers a chilling portrayal of mental illness intertwined with supernatural elements.(bombaytimes.com)
3. Rakkhosh (2019)
- Directors: Abhijit Kokate, Srivinay Salian
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: Told from a first-person POV, the story follows a schizophrenic patient navigating the horrors of a mental asylum.
- Why Watch: “Rakkhosh” stands out for its unique narrative style and deep exploration of mental health.(Wikipedia, bombaytimes.com)
4. Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)
- Director: Vijay Lalwani
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A man receives mysterious phone calls from someone claiming to be himself, leading to a journey of self-discovery.
- Why Watch: The film delves into themes of identity and mental health, offering a suspenseful narrative.(Vogue India, filmcompanion.in, bombaytimes.com)
5. Game Over (2019)
- Director: Ashwin Saravanan
- Language: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi
- Synopsis: A game designer with PTSD finds herself trapped in a deadly game of survival.
- Why Watch: Blending psychological horror with thriller elements, “Game Over” offers a gripping experience.
Crime Dramas: Tales of Intrigue and Justice
6. Talvar (2015)
- Director: Meghna Gulzar
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: Based on the 2008 Noida double murder case, the film presents multiple perspectives of the investigation.
- Why Watch: “Talvar” provides a compelling look into the complexities of the justice system and media influence.(direcmovies.com, Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
7. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A multi-generational saga of crime, politics, and revenge set in the coal mafia of Dhanbad.
- Why Watch: Known for its raw storytelling and ensemble cast, it’s a landmark in Indian gangster cinema.(Wikipedia)
8. Drishyam (2015)
- Director: Nishikant Kamat
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A man goes to great lengths to protect his family after they become involved in a crime.
- Why Watch: “Drishyam” masterfully explores moral dilemmas and the extents one would go for family.(direcmovies.com)
9. Rahasya (2015)
- Director: Manish Gupta
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A CBI officer investigates the murder of a teenage girl, uncovering shocking secrets.
- Why Watch: Inspired by real events, the film keeps audiences guessing with its suspenseful narrative.(ZEE5)
10. Silence… Can You Hear It? (2021)
- Director: Aban Bharucha Deohans
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A woman’s mysterious disappearance leads to a high-profile murder investigation.
- Why Watch: A fast-paced thriller that delves into the intricacies of crime and justice.(Marie Claire, ZEE5, Vogue India)
Blending Genres: Thrillers with a Twist
11. Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012)
- Director: Reema Kagti
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A police officer investigates a film actor’s death, leading to supernatural revelations.
- Why Watch: Combining crime investigation with paranormal elements, “Talaash” offers a unique cinematic experience.(Wikipedia, bombaytimes.com)
12. Te3n (2016)
- Director: Ribhu Dasgupta
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A grandfather, a priest, and a police officer delve into a kidnapping case that mirrors a past tragedy.
- Why Watch: A gripping narrative that explores themes of loss, guilt, and redemption.(trandyindia.com)
13. Table No. 21 (2013)
- Director: Aditya Datt
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A couple participates in a game show that takes a dark turn, revealing hidden secrets.
- Why Watch: The film challenges societal norms and addresses issues like bullying and revenge.
14. Barot House (2019)
- Director: Bugs Bhargava Krishna
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A family’s seemingly perfect life unravels after a series of tragic events.
- Why Watch: Inspired by true events, it delves into the dark recesses of familial relationships.
15. Badla (2019)
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Language: Hindi
- Synopsis: A successful businesswoman is accused of murder, leading to a series of revelations.
- Why Watch: A remake of the Spanish film “The Invisible Guest,” “Badla” keeps viewers engaged with its twists.(direcmovies.com)
The world of Indian thriller cinema is a treasure trove of gripping narratives based on the complexities of human mind, social systems, and moral quandaries. From mind play to exposing true crime dramas, these movies are packed with entertainment and something to discuss afterwards. With the industry growing and moving in a new direction, we can hope to see more such interesting stories which defy the tropes and bring something new to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these movies available with English subtitles?
Yes, most of these films are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and ZEE5 with English subtitles.(direcmovies.com)
Q2: Which film should I start with if I’m new to Indian thrillers?
“Andhadhun” and “Drishyam” are great starting points due to their universal themes and gripping narratives.(Vogue India)
Q3: Are there any regional language thrillers worth watching?
Absolutely! Films like “Game Over” (Tamil), “Rakkhosh” (Hindi), and “Gangs of Wasseypur” (Hindi) offer diverse storytelling from different regions.(Wikipedia)
Q4: Do these films contain graphic content?
Some films may contain intense scenes or themes. It’s advisable to check the film’s rating and reviews before watching.
Q5: Are these films based on true events?
Movies like “Talvar” and “Rahasya” are inspired by real-life cases, adding a layer of authenticity to their narratives.(Wikipedia)
