Discover the top 10 must-watch Bollywood crime thrillers that deliver intense suspense, gripping storytelling, and unforgettable performances. Perfect for fans of crime dramas!
Bollywood has mastered the art of storytelling across various genres, but crime thrillers hold a special place for their edge-of-the-seat narratives, unexpected twists, and powerful performances. Whether you love psychological thrillers, intense investigations, or mafia sagas, Bollywood has something for every crime-thriller enthusiast. Here’s a list of the top 10 must-watch Bollywood crime thrillers that you shouldn’t miss!
1. Andhadhun (2018)
Directed by: Sriram Raghavan
Starring: Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, Radhika Apte
A blind pianist gets entangled in a murder mystery that turns his life upside down. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, Andhadhun is a masterclass in suspense and black comedy. The film keeps you guessing till the very end and is a must-watch for thriller lovers.
2. Drishyam (2015)
Directed by: Nishikant Kamat
Starring: Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran
A gripping tale of an ordinary man who goes to extraordinary lengths to protect his family from a powerful cop. The film keeps you hooked with its clever narrative and emotional depth. It’s one of the finest Bollywood crime thrillers with a thought-provoking storyline.
3. Talaash (2012)
Directed by: Reema Kagti
Starring: Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Rani Mukerji
A suspenseful psychological thriller that revolves around a police officer investigating a mysterious car accident. With its eerie atmosphere and layered storytelling, Talaash is a must-watch for those who enjoy deep, emotional thrillers with supernatural elements.
4. Special 26 (2013)
Directed by: Neeraj Pandey
Starring: Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher, Manoj Bajpayee
Based on real-life heists, Special 26 follows a group of conmen who pose as CBI officers to conduct fake raids. With a brilliant cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminals, this film is packed with intelligence and suspense.
5. Kahaani (2012)
Directed by: Sujoy Ghosh
Starring: Vidya Balan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Parambrata Chatterjee
A pregnant woman’s search for her missing husband in Kolkata takes her through a labyrinth of secrets and deception. Kahaani is a masterpiece of storytelling, with a climax that leaves audiences stunned. Vidya Balan delivers a powerhouse performance.
6. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)
Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
Starring: Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadha
This two-part crime saga follows the multi-generational blood feud between rival gangs in Wasseypur. With its raw storytelling, intense action, and exceptional performances, Gangs of Wasseypur is a cult favorite among crime thriller fans.
7. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016)
Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
Starring: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vicky Kaushal
A chilling psychological thriller inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s terrifying portrayal of a psychopath and Vicky Kaushal’s troubled cop character make this film a dark and unforgettable experience.
8. Badla (2019)
Directed by: Sujoy Ghosh
Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu
A legal thriller filled with suspense and mind games, Badla revolves around a woman accused of murder and a lawyer determined to uncover the truth. With its gripping plot and sharp dialogues, this film is a must-watch.
9. Ugly (2014)
Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
Starring: Rahul Bhat, Ronit Roy, Tejaswini Kolhapure
A haunting crime thriller that explores the dark side of human nature, Ugly is an unsettling tale of a missing girl and the sinister motivations of those involved. The film is raw, intense, and leaves a lasting impact.
10. Johnny Gaddaar (2007)
Directed by: Sriram Raghavan
Starring: Neil Nitin Mukesh, Dharmendra, Rimi Sen
A neo-noir thriller about betrayal and deception among a group of criminals. With stylish cinematography and an engaging storyline, Johnny Gaddaar is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition among Bollywood thrillers.
Bollywood crime thrillers have consistently delivered gripping narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From psychological thrillers to heist dramas, these films offer a mix of suspense, action, and intrigue. Whether you’re a fan of crime mysteries or just looking for a thrilling watch, this list of must-watch Bollywood crime thrillers will not disappoint.
FAQs
1. Which is the best Bollywood crime thriller of all time?
While opinions vary, Andhadhun, Drishyam, and Kahaani are often considered among the best due to their unique storytelling and strong performances.
2. Are Bollywood crime thrillers inspired by real-life events?
Yes, films like Special 26 and Raman Raghav 2.0 are based on true stories and real-life incidents.
3. Which Bollywood crime thriller has the best twist ending?
Andhadhun and Kahaani are famous for their unpredictable and shocking twist endings.
4. Where can I watch these Bollywood crime thrillers?
Most of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar.
5. Who is the best director for Bollywood crime thrillers?
Directors like Sriram Raghavan, Anurag Kashyap, and Sujoy Ghosh are known for their expertise in the crime thriller genre.
With these must-watch Bollywood crime thrillers, you’re in for a cinematic experience filled with suspense, mystery, and unforgettable storytelling!
