The Hindi film industry, better known for its scale and musicals, has also churned out scores of nail-biting thrillers which are rather unknown. And once you are done with the popular fare like Kahaani or Andhadhun, allow yourself to be introduced to these underrated cinematic gems they promise great stories, complex personalities, and heart-pounding tension.
Here is an article that delves into 10 underrated Hindi thriller movies that you should watch. Whether you’re a crime drama aficionado or just craving a fresh cinematic experience, these picks will keep you glued to your screen.
1. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
Director: Anurag Kashyap Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vicky Kaushal
A disturbing psychological thriller inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav. Siddiqui delivers a chilling performance that haunts long after the credits roll. The cat-and-mouse chase between a cop battling his own demons and a remorseless killer redefines the genre.
Why Watch It?
- Dark, gritty atmosphere
- Phenomenal acting
- Layers of moral ambiguity
2. Manorama Six Feet Under (2007)
Director: Navdeep Singh Cast: Abhay Deol, Raima Sen
Set in a sleepy Rajasthan town, this film is a noir-inspired story about a failed detective novelist entangled in a murder mystery. With slow-burning suspense and subtle social commentary, it offers an experience akin to Hollywood noirs.
Why Watch It?
- Brilliant storytelling
- Understated yet powerful performance
- Stunning cinematography
3. Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012)
Director: Reema Kagti Cast: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor
Though a relatively bigger production, Talaash didn’t get the recognition it deserved as a psychological thriller. The film blends crime investigation with supernatural elements in a nuanced way that leaves a lasting impression.
Why Watch It?
- Unpredictable twists
- Emotionally resonant themes
- Subtle spiritual undertones
4. Table No. 21 (2013)
Director: Aditya Datt Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal, Paresh Rawal
A vacation turns into a nightmare for a couple who get caught in a twisted reality game. Table No. 21 tackles themes like bullying and revenge through a high-stakes psychological game.
Why Watch It?
- Fast-paced narrative
- Strong social message
- Tense and unexpected
5. Ugly (2013)
Director: Anurag Kashyap Cast: Rahul Bhat, Ronit Roy
A child goes missing in Mumbai, and what follows is a grim portrayal of broken relationships, failed systems, and human desperation. The film avoids melodrama, opting for brutal realism.
Why Watch It?
- Gritty realism
- Sharp screenplay
- Disturbingly relevant
6. Samay: When Time Strikes (2003)
Director: Robby Grewal Cast: Sushmita Sen
A taut thriller about a cop solving a series of murders that seem connected through a sinister pattern. Sen’s portrayal of a determined officer is both compelling and refreshing.
Why Watch It?
- Ahead of its time
- Intelligent plot
- Female-led thriller
7. Aamir (2008)
Director: Raj Kumar Gupta Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal
This gripping thriller unfolds in real time as a man returns to Mumbai and is forced into a deadly game involving terrorism. The film is an intense reflection on identity, choice, and morality.
Why Watch It?
- Real-time storytelling
- Taut direction
- Strong moral dilemma
8. 404: Error Not Found (2011)
Director: Prawaal Raman Cast: Imaad Shah, Nishikant Kamat
Set in a medical college, this psychological thriller explores the thin line between science and the supernatural. With intelligent writing and a haunting atmosphere, it’s a slow burn worth the wait.
Why Watch It?
- Unique setting
- Complex characters
- Blend of science and mystery
9. Johnny Gaddaar (2007)
Director: Sriram Raghavan Cast: Neil Nitin Mukesh, Dharmendra
A neo-noir thriller that cleverly unravels betrayal within a group of criminals. With its slick storytelling and homage to classic thrillers, this film showcases Raghavan’s mastery over suspense.
Why Watch It?
- Stylish execution
- Sharp editing
- Hitchcockian vibes
10. NH10 (2015)
Director: Navdeep Singh Cast: Anushka Sharma, Neil Bhoopalam
A road trip turns into a nightmare when a couple becomes witnesses to a brutal crime in rural India. A gritty and powerful thriller with a strong female lead and socio-political commentary.
Why Watch It?
- Tense and grounded
- Strong female protagonist
- Hard-hitting narrative
The Common Thread: What Makes These Films Stand Out?
While each of these movies has a distinct storyline and cinematic style, they share a few defining traits:
- Complex Characters: These aren’t one-dimensional heroes or villains; they’re flawed, human, and layered.
- Realism Over Glamour: The emphasis is on storytelling and atmosphere rather than star power or spectacle.
- Social Commentary: Many of these thrillers reflect societal issues—corruption, gender violence, moral decay, and systemic failure.
These films might not have had the marketing budgets or box office pull of mainstream Bollywood, but they succeed in keeping viewers engaged through compelling narratives and suspenseful execution.
Rediscover Hindi Thrillers Beyond the Mainstream
While stories are hard to come by in a Bollywood that favours formulas over storylines and commerce over craft, this batch of forgotten Hindi thrillers is a welcome escape from the ordinary fare. Now, they defy convention, shake the mind, bend the brain, and they’re all the more enjoyable for it in this collection of all the town has ever seen at the movies!
So next time you get the itch for a truly gripping watch, resist the temptation of the same old same old and instead, try some of these hidden gems full of masterful storytelling and tension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these movies available on streaming platforms?
Yes, many of these films are available on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, ZEE5, and Hotstar. Availability may vary by region.
Q2: What makes a good thriller film?
A good thriller combines suspense, strong characters, tight editing, and unpredictable plot twists to keep viewers on edge.
Q3: Why are some of these films considered underrated?
Despite critical acclaim, these films didn’t receive widespread attention due to limited marketing, niche appeal, or lack of star power.
Q4: Are these movies suitable for all age groups?
Many of these thrillers are intended for mature audiences due to violence, psychological themes, or disturbing content. Viewer discretion is advised.
Q5: What are some common themes in Hindi thrillers?
Common themes include moral conflict, revenge, corruption, crime investigation, and human psychology.
