Indian cinema has indeed come a long way where the Indian psychological thriller genre is concerned as we see movies with in-depth psychological narratives that play on the human mind. Netflix has taken notice of this trend and compiled a list of films and series that represent the cream of the crop of Indian psychological thrillers. Whether you’re into the heavy crime dramas or tales that dig deep into the dark corners of the mind, you have people talking with this list in hand.
1. Black Warrant (2025)
- Type: Series
- Language: Hindi
- Episodes: 7
- Starring: Zahan Kapoor, Rahul Bhat
- Synopsis: Based on the memoir Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer, this series offers a gripping look into the life of Sunil Gupta, a jailer navigating the complexities of Tihar Jail. The narrative delves into the psychological toll of managing notorious criminals and the moral dilemmas faced within the prison system. (Decider, Decider)
2. Jaane Jaan (2023)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma
- Synopsis: An adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s The Devotion of Suspect X, this film follows a single mother entangled in a murder investigation. The story intricately weaves themes of love, sacrifice, and the lengths one would go to protect a secret. (Wikipedia)
3. Sector 36 (2024)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Vikrant Massey, Deepak Dobriyal
- Synopsis: Inspired by the 2006 Noida serial murders, this crime thriller delves into the investigation of a series of gruesome killings. The film explores the psychological impact on the investigators and the societal implications of such crimes. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
4. Kohrra (2023)
- Type: Series
- Language: Punjabi
- Episodes: 6
- Starring: Suvinder Vicky, Barun Sobti
- Synopsis: Set in Punjab, this series follows two police officers investigating the murder of an NRI groom. As they delve deeper, they uncover layers of family secrets and societal pressures, making it a compelling psychological drama. (Vogue India, Wikipedia)
5. Qala (2022)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Tripti Dimri, Babil Khan
- Synopsis: Set in the 1930s, this period drama explores the life of a young singer haunted by her past. The film delves into themes of ambition, mental health, and the pressures of societal expectations. (Wikipedia)
6. Phobia (2016)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Radhika Apte
- Synopsis: An artist suffering from severe agoraphobia moves into a new apartment, only to experience terrifying events. The film masterfully portrays the blurred lines between reality and hallucination. (Wikipedia, HerZindagi)
7. Game Over (2019)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi/Tamil/Telugu
- Starring: Taapsee Pannu
- Synopsis: A game designer battling PTSD finds herself in a life-threatening situation. The film uses the concept of video games as a metaphor for life and death, offering a unique psychological narrative. (@EconomicTimes, HerZindagi)
8. The Girl on the Train (2021)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Parineeti Chopra
- Synopsis: An adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ novel, this film follows an alcoholic divorcee who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation, leading to shocking revelations. (Vogue India)
9. Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012)
- Type: Film
- Language: Hindi
- Starring: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor
- Synopsis: A police officer investigates a film star’s death while grappling with personal loss. The film blends elements of suspense and the supernatural, exploring themes of grief and acceptance. (Decider, Pinkvilla)
10. Kaala Paani (2023)
- Type: Series
- Language: Hindi
- Episodes: 7
- Starring: Mona Singh, Ashutosh Gowariker
- Synopsis: Set in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this survival thriller follows a group of individuals facing a deadly epidemic. The series delves into human behavior under extreme stress, making it a compelling psychological study. (Wikipedia, IFORHER)
The time when Indian was left searching for powerful inspirations is gone and we have finally started having a plethora of brilliant storylines in Psychological thriller space here in the country. Our 2025 lineup is a celebration of the depth and breadth of Indian storytelling and offers our members with a gamut of content choices that echo our contemporary thoughts, in a very unique and gripped way. Whether you’re looking forward to binge a new dark series or just a standalone film, here is a list of the Indian psychological thriller films available on Netflix.
FAQ: Indian Psychological Thrillers on Netflix
Q1: Are these titles available globally on Netflix? Availability may vary by region. It’s recommended to check your local Netflix library or use a VPN for access.
Q2: Are these films and series suitable for all age groups? Most psychological thrillers contain mature themes. Viewer discretion is advised, and it’s best to check the specific ratings before watching.
Q3: Are there English subtitles available? Yes, Netflix typically provides English subtitles for its content, including Indian films and series.
Q4: Can I download these titles for offline viewing? Netflix allows downloads for offline viewing on its app, subject to content licensing agreements.
Q5: Are there more Indian psychological thrillers expected in 2025? The Indian film industry continues to produce diverse content. Keep an eye on Netflix’s upcoming releases for new additions to the genre.
