Best Indian Thriller Movies As Indian cinema gravitates towards innovative storytelling, women-centric thrillers have been a revolutionary sub-genre that break established gender narratives. These films do more than put women front and center; they feature them as nuanced, wickedly clever and ruggedly resourceful protagonists. This has redefined the portrayal of women in thrillers, forging new narratives that are more appealing to contemporary audiences and breaking stereotypes.
The Shift in Representation
Traditionally, women in Indian thrillers were often relegated to secondary roles, serving as victims or love interests rather than active participants in the narrative. However, contemporary women-centric thrillers have shifted the focus to female agency, exploring themes of empowerment, survival, and justice.
Examples:
Kahaani (2012): A landmark performance for Vidya Balan, the lead actor of this thriller about a pregnant woman who travels through the streets of Kolkata’s side streets to discover the truth about her missing husband. The film’s thrillerlike narrative and unexpected twists accentuate her character’s strength and intelligence.
Pink (2016): We are calling this a thriller — not conventionally so, but it does involve blood-eagled perverts and a layer of truth-finding in a courtroom, with the deeper themes of consent and societal attitudes at play (Taapsee Pannu was superb).
Thrillers That Challenge Stereotypes
Women-centric thrillers often challenge the stereotypes associated with female characters in Indian cinema. They present women as active decision-makers, capable of handling morally complex situations and confronting adversaries head-on.
Examples:
NH10 (2015): Anushka Sharma stars as a woman who takes matters into her own hands after a violent incident. The film is a gritty revenge thriller that showcases her transformation from a vulnerable individual to a fearless fighter.
Parched (2015): While primarily a drama, the film’s thriller-like elements emphasize the resilience of its female characters as they navigate a patriarchal society.
Exploration of Societal Issues
Many women-centric thrillers delve into pressing societal issues, using suspense and intrigue to underline themes such as gender inequality, domestic abuse, and systemic corruption.
Examples:
Thappad (2020): While this film leans more towards drama, its intense exploration of domestic violence and its psychological effects brings an edge of suspense to the narrative.
Raazi (2018): Alia Bhatt delivers a compelling performance as a young woman who becomes a spy for India during the Indo-Pak war. The film blends patriotism with the personal sacrifices of a female protagonist.
Regional Cinema and Women-Centric Thrillers
Regional Indian cinema has been at the forefront of crafting nuanced women-centric thrillers. These films, often rooted in local cultures and traditions, add depth and authenticity to their narratives.
Examples:
Uyare (2019, Malayalam): Parvathy Thiruvothu’s powerful performance as an acid attack survivor and aspiring pilot makes this film a gripping tale of resilience.
Game Over (2019, Tamil/Telugu): Taapsee Pannu stars in this psychological thriller about a woman battling trauma while facing a mysterious threat. The film’s inventive storytelling and suspenseful atmosphere make it a standout.
Impact of OTT Platforms
The rise of OTT platforms has played a significant role in the popularity of women-centric thrillers. By providing a space for unconventional stories, these platforms have allowed filmmakers to experiment with bold themes and complex characters.
Examples:
Delhi Crime (2019, Netflix): Based on the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, this series portrays the tireless efforts of a female police officer, played by Shefali Shah, to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Aranyak (2021, Netflix): Raveena Tandon’s role as a small-town police officer investigating a complex murder case adds layers to the traditional thriller format.
Conclusion
Women-centric thrillers in Indian cinema have broken new ground by challenging stereotypes and placing women at the heart of compelling narratives. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought, offering a fresh perspective on gender roles and societal norms. As Indian cinema continues to evolve, the future of women-centric thrillers looks brighter than ever, promising more stories that celebrate the strength and complexity of women
