The Rise of Indian Psychological Thrillers on Netflix
Psycho-thriller is the latest cinematic trend in the Indian film industry in recent years and has given the Indian cinema a lot of gripping moments that show the dark side of human nature. With Netflix as the worldwide platform, the audience for these films are the entire world and the movies are plenty to give stories of suspense, the tale of the complex characters and that of mystery to the lovers of such. This piece is dedicated to the most intriguing Indian psychological thrillers on Netflix that guarantee an experience that is both spooky and mind-boggling at the same time.
1. Jaane Jaan (2023)
Director: Sujoy Ghosh Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma Runtime: 139 minutes Language: Hindi
Based on Keigo Higashino’s book The Devotion of Suspect X, Jaane Jaan also happens to be Kareena Kapoor Khan’s OTT debut. The movie centers on Maya D’Souza, a single mother trapped in a murder case, and her neighbor Naren, a mathematician genius with secrets of his own. It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, and lies that will keep you well entertained.
2. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
Director: Honey Trehan Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte Runtime: 149 minutes Language: Hindi
In Raat Akeli Hai, a small-town cop investigates the murder of a wealthy family’s patriarch on his wedding night. As secrets unravel, the film delves into themes of power, patriarchy, and hidden traumas. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s portrayal of Inspector Jatil Yadav adds depth to this gripping whodunit.
3. Rakkhosh (2019)
Directors: Abhijit Kokate, Srivinay Salian Cast: Sanjay Mishra, Tannishtha Chatterjee Language: Hindi
Rakkhosh offers a unique cinematic experience by presenting the story through the eyes of a schizophrenic patient. This first-person POV approach immerses viewers into the protagonist’s disturbed mind, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination. It’s a haunting exploration of mental illness and institutionalization.
4. Game Over (2019)
Director: Ashwin Saravanan Cast: Taapsee Pannu Runtime: 103 minutes Languages: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi
Game Over centers on Swapna, a game designer suffering from PTSD, who finds herself trapped in a deadly game of survival. The film cleverly uses video game metaphors to depict her psychological battles, making it a standout entry in the genre.
5. Haseen Dillruba (2021)
Director: Vinil Mathew Cast: Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, Harshvardhan Rane Runtime: 135 minutes Language: Hindi
Blending romance with suspense, Haseen Dillruba tells the story of Rani, whose husband dies under mysterious circumstances. As investigations proceed, layers of passion, betrayal, and obsession come to light. The film keeps audiences guessing until the very end.(org8601ampengl.jagran.com)
6. Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)
Director: Vijay Lalwani Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Deepika Padukone Runtime: 135 minutes Language: Hindi(Wikipedia, Wikipedia, @EconomicTimes)
This psychological thriller follows Karthik, an introverted man who starts receiving mysterious phone calls from someone claiming to be himself. As his life transforms, questions about identity and sanity arise, leading to a mind-bending climax.
7. Badla (2019)
Director: Sujoy Ghosh Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu Runtime: 118 minutes Language: Hindi(Pinkvilla, Decider)
In Badla, a successful businesswoman finds herself accused of murder and hires a renowned lawyer to defend her. Through a series of interviews, truths and lies intertwine, creating a suspenseful narrative filled with twists.
8. Ghoul (2018)
Director: Patrick Graham Cast: Radhika Apte Episodes: 3 Language: Hindi(Wikipedia, Decider)
Set in a dystopian future, Ghoul combines horror with psychological thrills. When a new prisoner exhibits strange behaviors, a military interrogator uncovers a terrifying truth. The series delves into themes of guilt, oppression, and the supernatural.(Wikipedia)
9. Qala (2022)
Director: Anvita Dutt Cast: Tripti Dimri, Babil Khan Runtime: 119 minutes Language: Hindi(Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
Qala is a period psychological drama that explores the complexities of ambition, jealousy, and maternal relationships. Set in the 1940s, it follows a young singer’s rise to fame and the haunting consequences of her choices.(Wikipedia)
10. Aranyak (2021)
Director: Vinay Waikul Cast: Raveena Tandon Episodes: 8 Language: Hindi(Wikipedia)
In the misty town of Sironah, a local police officer and her city-bred replacement navigate personal and professional challenges while investigating a series of murders. Aranyak masterfully blends folklore with crime, creating a gripping narrative.(Wikipedia)
A Thrilling Journey into the Human Psyche
Indian psychological thrillers on Netflix have a variety of storylines that tap into the human psyche. From stories of obsession and identity, to those that take the journey of guilt and redemption, the films and series offers suspense and compelling stories for viewers. As the genre develops, observers can expect to see more engrossing tales that push interpreters and keep them guessing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are these psychological thrillers suitable for all audiences? A1: While these films and series offer compelling narratives, some contain mature themes and intense scenes. Viewer discretion is advised.(IFORHER)
Q2: Are English subtitles available for these titles? A2: Yes, Netflix provides English subtitles for most of its content, including Indian films and series.
Q3: Can I watch these titles outside of India? A3: Availability may vary by region, but many of these titles are accessible globally on Netflix.
Q4: Are there any upcoming Indian psychological thrillers to look forward to? A4: The Indian film industry continues to explore this genre, with several projects in development. Keep an eye on Netflix’s upcoming releases for the latest additions.
Q5: Which of these titles are based on real events or adaptations? A5: Jaane Jaan is adapted from Keigo Higashino’s novel The Devotion of Suspect X, while Qala draws inspiration from various classic narratives.(Wikipedia)
