Best Indian Thriller Movies The Indian film industry has produced countless thriller movies over the years, some of which have gained immense popularity. However, many exceptional thrillers remain underrated, overshadowed by mainstream hits. These films, despite their gripping narratives and stellar performances, have not received the attention they truly deserve. Here are five underrated Indian thriller movies that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Manorama Six Feet Under (2007)
Directed by Navdeep Singh, Manorama Six Feet Under is a neo-noir thriller that takes inspiration from Roman Polanski’s Chinatown. The film stars Abhay Deol as an amateur detective drawn into a complex web of lies, deceit, and murder in a small desert town in Rajasthan.
Why it’s underrated: Despite its sharp writing and atmospheric storytelling, Manorama Six Feet Under was overlooked at the box office. Its slow-burn narrative and morally ambiguous characters make it a must-watch for fans of intelligent thrillers.
Where to watch: Available on select OTT platforms.
2. Ugly (2013)
Anurag Kashyap’s Ugly is a dark and intense psychological thriller that delves into the murky depths of human greed and selfishness. The film revolves around the kidnapping of a young girl and the ensuing investigation, which exposes the fractured relationships among the characters.
Why it’s underrated: Ugly is a masterclass in building tension, but its bleak and uncompromising tone may have deterred mainstream audiences. However, its unflinching portrayal of flawed humanity makes it an unforgettable experience.
Where to watch: Streaming on major platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime.
3. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020)
This Malayalam-language thriller, directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, follows a criminologist who assists the police in solving a series of gruesome murders. Anjaam Pathiraa offers a fresh take on the serial killer genre, blending psychological depth with gripping procedural elements.
Why it’s underrated: While the film was a hit in Kerala, it remains relatively unknown to audiences outside the Malayalam-speaking regions. Its tight screenplay and clever twists make it one of the best Indian thrillers in recent years.
Where to watch: Available with subtitles on select streaming services.
4. 13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)
Directed by Vikram Kumar, 13B is a unique blend of psychological thriller and supernatural horror. The story revolves around a man who discovers that the events in his new apartment are eerily linked to a daily soap opera broadcast on television.
Why it’s underrated: While it received some attention for its innovative premise, 13B deserves more recognition for its clever integration of horror and thriller elements. Madhavan’s compelling performance adds depth to this eerie narrative.
Where to watch: Available on OTT platforms like Amazon Prime.
5. Kaun (1999)
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma and written by Anurag Kashyap, Kaun is a minimalist thriller set entirely in a single house. Starring Urmila Matondkar, Manoj Bajpayee, and Sushant Singh, the film keeps the audience guessing with its claustrophobic setting and unpredictable twists.
Why it’s underrated: Despite being a cult favorite among cinephiles, Kaun never achieved mainstream recognition. Its tense atmosphere and psychological depth make it a standout entry in Indian thrillers.
Where to watch: Seek it out on retro movie streaming platforms.
Conclusion
These five underrated Indian thrillers are hidden gems that deserve a wider audience. Each film offers a unique experience, from psychological depth to edge-of-the-seat suspense. If you’re a fan of thrillers, these movies are perfect additions to your watchlist. Don’t miss out on these cinematic treasures that showcase the depth and diversity of Indian storytelling.
