Discover the best regional Indian thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Explore gripping stories, exceptional performances, and must-watch suspense films!
India is known for its diverse and rich storytelling traditions, and when it comes to thrillers, regional cinema has consistently delivered some of the most gripping and thought-provoking films. From heart-pounding mysteries to edge-of-the-seat crime dramas, regional Indian cinema offers a treasure trove of hidden gems that often go unnoticed in mainstream Bollywood. If you’re a fan of adrenaline-pumping narratives, here are some mind-blowing regional Indian thrillers you absolutely can’t afford to miss.
1. Super Deluxe (2019) – Tamil
Director: Thiagarajan Kumararaja
Why You Should Watch It: A genre-defying thriller with multiple intertwining stories and dark humor.
Super Deluxe is a Tamil neo-noir thriller that blends crime, suspense, and black comedy with a touch of the bizarre. Featuring an ensemble cast including Vijay Sethupathi, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and Fahadh Faasil, the film takes audiences through an intricate maze of unexpected twists and philosophical undertones. The film’s non-linear storytelling and bold themes make it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.
2. Drishyam (2013) – Malayalam
Director: Jeethu Joseph
Why You Should Watch It: A masterclass in suspense, deception, and intelligent storytelling.
Drishyam is one of the most critically acclaimed thrillers in Indian cinema, inspiring multiple remakes in different languages, including Bollywood. The film follows a seemingly ordinary man who goes to extraordinary lengths to protect his family after an unexpected crime occurs. The intelligent screenplay and gripping narrative make Drishyam a benchmark in the thriller genre.
3. Vikram Vedha (2017) – Tamil
Director: Pushkar-Gayathri
Why You Should Watch It: A cat-and-mouse chase between a cop and a gangster with moral dilemmas.
Inspired by the Indian folklore of Vikram and Betaal, this high-octane Tamil thriller stars R. Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi in stellar performances. The film explores the gray areas of morality, crime, and justice through an intense and cleverly written narrative. The film was remade in Hindi, but the original remains unmatched in its impact.
4. Kavaludaari (2019) – Kannada
Director: Hemanth M. Rao
Why You Should Watch It: A neo-noir crime thriller with a gripping investigation.
This underrated Kannada thriller follows a traffic policeman who stumbles upon an old case involving buried skeletons. As he digs deeper, secrets unravel, leading him into a web of mystery and deceit. Kavaludaari stands out with its atmospheric cinematography and engaging plot twists.
5. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – Malayalam
Director: Midhun Manuel Thomas
Why You Should Watch It: A psychological thriller with a chilling serial killer mystery.
A gripping crime thriller, Anjaam Pathiraa follows a criminologist who helps the police track down a ruthless serial killer targeting law enforcement officers. With its eerie atmosphere, well-crafted screenplay, and shocking revelations, this Malayalam film keeps viewers hooked till the very end.
6. Evaru (2019) – Telugu
Director: Venkat Ramji
Why You Should Watch It: A Telugu adaptation of “The Invisible Guest” with unexpected twists.
A gripping thriller that keeps you guessing, Evaru revolves around a murder investigation where every character has something to hide. Featuring Adivi Sesh in a stellar performance, the film’s unpredictable twists and psychological depth make it a must-watch for thriller lovers.
7. Ratsasan (2018) – Tamil
Director: Ram Kumar
Why You Should Watch It: A spine-chilling psychological thriller about a serial killer on the loose.
This edge-of-the-seat thriller follows a young aspiring filmmaker who turns into a police officer and gets entangled in a chilling serial killer case. The suspense, haunting background score, and gruesome murders make Ratsasan one of the most terrifying thrillers in Indian cinema.
8. Mumbai Police (2013) – Malayalam
Director: Rosshan Andrrews
Why You Should Watch It: A mind-bending mystery with an unforgettable climax.
This gripping Malayalam thriller revolves around a police officer suffering from amnesia while trying to solve a high-profile murder case. With its unconventional storytelling and shocking revelations, Mumbai Police is a must-watch for fans of cerebral thrillers.
Indian regional cinema has produced some of the most compelling and intense thrillers that often surpass mainstream Bollywood films in storytelling depth and execution. Whether it’s psychological mind games, serial killer mysteries, or intricate crime narratives, these films provide an enthralling experience for thriller enthusiasts. If you’re looking to explore beyond Bollywood, these regional gems should be at the top of your watchlist!
FAQ
1. Which is the best Indian thriller movie of all time?
While opinions vary, Drishyam (2013) is widely regarded as one of the best Indian thriller movies due to its intricate storyline and suspenseful execution.
2. Are regional Indian thrillers better than Bollywood thrillers?
Regional Indian thrillers often have more unique narratives, experimental storytelling, and deep-rooted cultural contexts, making them a strong competitor to mainstream Bollywood thrillers.
3. Which regional film industries in India make the best thrillers?
The Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu film industries are known for consistently delivering high-quality thrillers with unique and engaging storytelling.
4. Where can I watch these regional Indian thrillers?
Many of these films are available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and Zee5.
5. Are there any upcoming regional Indian thrillers to look forward to?
Yes! Several promising thrillers are in the pipeline in regional cinema, with directors pushing the boundaries of storytelling and suspense.
Ready to dive into the world of regional Indian thrillers? Start with these masterpieces and experience the best of Indian cinema beyond Bollywood!
