Psychological thriller is one of the most popular genres in Indian cinema and our filmmakers, over the years, have taken inspiration from real life to create memorable narratives that take us on a journey to explore the human mind. These films offer not only thrilling plots but also insights into the nuances of humanity and social dilemmas. In this blog, we will delve into the world of Indian psychological thrillers inspired by true stories, and the various ways in which these films have contributed to the development of this genre.
1. Talvar (2015)
Talvar, directed by Meghna Gulzar, is a riveting dramatization of the 2008 Noida double murder case, in which a teenage girl and the family’s domestic worker were discovered dead. In this context, we see several perspectives of the investigation unfold, patently showing the multi-faceted and sometimes biased approach to searching for the truth behind a crime. A withering examination of the Indian criminal justice system with tremendous performances by Irrfan Khan and Konkona Sen Sharma, Talvar forces audiences not only to interrogate their assumptions but the nature of truth itself.
2. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
Spanning from 1st October 1966 to 30th September 1967, Anurag Kashyap’s Raman Raghav 2.0 is inspired from the notorious serial killer Raman Raghav who wreaked havoc in the city of Mumbai. This film (Cum That) is a nail-biting serial killer drama set in modern day, examining the disturbing bond between a serial killer (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) and a troubled police officer (Vicky Kaushal). The story explores themes of obsession, morality and the thin line between good and evil.
3. Posham Pa (2019)
Posham Pa, directed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, is based on the chilling true story of sisters Seema Gavit and Renuka Shinde, who, under their mother’s influence, kidnapped and murdered multiple children in the 1990s. The film delves into the psychological trauma and societal factors that led to their heinous crimes, offering a disturbing yet thought-provoking portrayal of human depravity.
4. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020)
This Malayalam-language thriller, directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, follows a criminologist assisting the police in tracking down a serial killer targeting police officers. While the film is a work of fiction, it incorporates elements inspired by real-life crimes, including references to infamous criminals like Raman Raghav. The movie keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot and suspenseful storytelling.
5. Athiran (2019)
Athiran, directed by Vivek, is a psychological thriller set in a psychiatric facility in Kerala. The story revolves around a psychiatrist investigating the mysterious circumstances surrounding a patient with special abilities. Inspired by a real-life account combined with elements from Edgar Allan Poe’s works, the film explores themes of mental health, isolation, and the thin line between sanity and insanity.
6. Not a Love Story (2011)
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Not a Love Story is a crime thriller inspired by the 2008 Neeraj Grover murder case. The film portrays the tumultuous relationship between an aspiring actress and her possessive boyfriend, leading to a gruesome crime. It delves into themes of jealousy, ambition, and the dark side of human emotions.
7. The Attacks of 26/11 (2013)
This docudrama, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, is based on the 2008 Mumbai attacks, one of the most traumatic events in India’s recent history. The film provides a harrowing account of the events, focusing on the perspectives of both the attackers and the victims. It serves as a stark reminder of the impact of terrorism on society and the psychological scars it leaves behind.
8. Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)
Starring Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone, this psychological thriller tells the story of a man suffering from low self-esteem who begins receiving mysterious phone calls from someone claiming to be himself. The film explores themes of mental health, self-discovery, and the complexities of the human mind.
9. Phobia (2016)
Featuring Radhika Apte in the lead role, Phobia is a psychological thriller that delves into the life of an artist who develops severe agoraphobia after a traumatic incident. The film portrays her struggles as she becomes confined to her apartment, where she begins experiencing terrifying events. It offers a gripping exploration of fear, trauma, and the mind’s fragility.
10. Ugly (2013)
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Ugly is a dark thriller that begins with the disappearance of a young girl, leading to a series of events that expose the underlying ugliness of the characters involved. The film delves into themes of greed, jealousy, and the moral decay present in society.
Indian cinema’s exploration of psychological thrillers rooted in true events offers audiences a profound insight into the depths of human behavior and societal issues. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought, challenging viewers to reflect on the complexities of the human mind and the world we inhabit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these films available with English subtitles?
Yes, most of these films are available with English subtitles on various streaming platforms, making them accessible to a global audience.
Q2: Are these films suitable for all audiences?
Given the intense and mature themes explored in these psychological thrillers, viewer discretion is advised. It’s recommended to check the film’s rating and read reviews to ensure it aligns with your comfort level.
Q3: Do these films accurately depict the true events they are based on?
While these films draw inspiration from real events, they often incorporate fictional elements for dramatic effect. For a comprehensive understanding, it’s advisable to consult factual sources alongside watching the films.
Q4: Where can I watch these films?
Many of these films are available on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar. Availability may vary
