Indian cinema is renowned for its diversity, ranging from extravagant Bollywood musicals to gritty regional dramas. Yet, thriller movies hold a unique charm, delivering gripping narratives and edge-of-the-seat suspense. While big-budget thrillers often steal the limelight, there are several underrated Indian thriller movies that deserve recognition. These hidden gems, though overlooked, showcase exceptional storytelling, powerful performances, and unique plots. In this article, we’ll delve into seven such masterpieces that are a must-watch for every thriller enthusiast.
Why Indian Thriller Movies Stand Out
Indian thrillers are distinctive because they often blend cultural nuances with universal themes of suspense and intrigue. They transcend language and regional barriers, offering stories that captivate audiences worldwide. Whether it’s a slow-burn psychological thriller or a high-octane crime drama, Indian thrillers consistently deliver engaging narratives that keep viewers hooked till the very end.
1. Ugly (2013)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Language: Hindi
- Plot: This dark and gritty psychological thriller revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a young girl. As the search intensifies, hidden motives and disturbing truths about the characters are unveiled.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Anurag Kashyap masterfully crafts a grim tale that exposes the dark side of human nature. Despite its critical acclaim, Ugly remains underappreciated by mainstream audiences. The film’s raw and unflinching portrayal of flawed characters makes it a standout.
2. Visaranai (2015)
- Director: Vetrimaaran
- Language: Tamil
- Plot: Based on true events, Visaranai showcases the harrowing journey of four laborers falsely accused of a crime. The film delves into police brutality and corruption within the justice system.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This National Award-winning movie is a chilling exploration of systemic abuse and the fragility of human rights. It’s a must-watch for its realistic storytelling and intense performances.
3. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020)
- Director: Midhun Manuel Thomas
- Language: Malayalam
- Plot: A criminologist teams up with the police to hunt down a serial killer targeting police officers. The movie’s twists and turns keep the audience guessing until the very end.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Anjaam Pathiraa combines suspense with strong character development. It’s a refreshing addition to the Indian thriller genre, with a narrative style reminiscent of international crime dramas.
4. Drishyam (2013)
- Director: Jeethu Joseph
- Language: Malayalam
- Plot: A middle-class man goes to extraordinary lengths to protect his family after they become embroiled in a crime. The movie is a masterclass in tension-building and plot twists.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: While Drishyam gained recognition in the south and inspired multiple remakes, the original Malayalam version is a hidden gem that remains unparalleled in its subtle brilliance and storytelling finesse.
5. No Smoking (2007)
- Director: Anurag Kashyap
- Language: Hindi
- Plot: This psychological thriller follows a chain smoker’s bizarre and surreal journey as he enrolls in a rehabilitation program. The film’s layered narrative explores themes of addiction and free will.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: No Smoking’s unconventional storytelling polarized audiences upon its release, but it has since garnered a cult following. The movie’s Kafkaesque elements and abstract narrative make it a unique experience.
6. Kahaani 2 (2016)
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Language: Hindi
- Plot: Vidya Balan shines as a woman whose life takes a dark turn when her daughter is kidnapped. The movie’s suspenseful plot is filled with shocking revelations.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: While the first installment, Kahaani, received widespread acclaim, its sequel didn’t get the recognition it deserved. Kahaani 2 stands out for its gripping narrative and Vidya Balan’s stellar performance.
7. Evaru (2019)
- Director: Venkat Ramji
- Language: Telugu
- Plot: A corrupt police officer investigates a murder that leads to a web of lies and deceit. Inspired by the Spanish film “The Invisible Guest,” Evaru offers a uniquely Indian twist to the narrative.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Evaru’s cleverly crafted screenplay and unexpected twists make it a standout. Its layered storytelling ensures that viewers are left pondering long after the credits roll.
The Cultural Significance of Thrillers in Indian Cinema
Thriller movies in India not only entertain but also serve as a mirror to societal issues. They often explore themes like corruption, justice, morality, and the human psyche. Hidden gems like the ones mentioned above prove that Indian filmmakers are unafraid to tackle unconventional stories and experiment with different narrative techniques.
Conclusion
These seven underrated Indian thriller movies are perfect examples of the depth and diversity of Indian cinema. They showcase bold storytelling, intricate plots, and unforgettable performances. Whether you’re a fan of psychological dramas, crime thrillers, or suspenseful mysteries, these films are guaranteed to leave you spellbound.
So, if you’re looking to explore the world of Indian thrillers beyond the mainstream, these hidden gems are a great place to start.
FAQs
1. What makes Indian thriller movies unique?
Indian thrillers blend cultural elements with universal themes, offering a distinct narrative style that appeals to a wide audience.
2. Where can I watch these underrated Indian thriller movies?
Many of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar. Some regional movies can also be found on platforms like Sun NXT and MX Player.
3. Are these movies suitable for international audiences?
Yes, the universal themes and gripping storylines make them accessible and enjoyable for international viewers, often with subtitles available.
4. Are there any other underrated Indian thriller movies worth watching?
Yes, movies like “Talvar,” “Andhadhun,” and “Ratsasan” are also exceptional but are relatively better known compared to the ones mentioned in this list.
5. What are some key elements of a great thriller movie?
Strong characters, an engaging plot, unexpected twists, and a satisfying resolution are the hallmarks of a great thriller.
