Looking for hidden gems in Bollywood crime thrillers? Discover these underrated movies that offer gripping stories, intense performances, and edge-of-the-seat suspense.
Bollywood is renowned for its diverse storytelling, but crime thrillers often remain overshadowed by mainstream blockbusters. While movies like Gangs of Wasseypur and Andhadhun have gained immense popularity, several equally compelling crime thrillers have flown under the radar. If you’re a fan of suspense, mystery, and adrenaline-pumping narratives, here are some underrated Bollywood crime thrillers you shouldn’t miss.
1. Ugly (2013) – A Dark and Gritty Kidnapping Mystery
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Ugly is a haunting psychological thriller that explores the dark side of human nature. The story revolves around the kidnapping of a young girl and the subsequent unraveling of secrets and betrayals within her family and the police department. With its raw storytelling and gripping performances, Ugly is an unsettling but must-watch thriller.
Why You Should Watch It:
- Intense and realistic portrayal of crime and corruption
- Brilliant performances by Ronit Roy, Rahul Bhat, and Tejaswini Kolhapure
- Twisted and unpredictable narrative
2. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016) – A Psychological Duel Between a Cop and a Killer
Inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav, this neo-noir thriller by Anurag Kashyap delves into the mind of a psychotic murderer and his disturbing connection with a troubled cop. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s spine-chilling performance as the titular character makes this film an unforgettable experience.
Why You Should Watch It:
- A chilling psychological cat-and-mouse game
- Exceptional acting by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Vicky Kaushal
- Dark and atmospheric cinematography
3. No One Killed Jessica (2011) – A Riveting True Crime Drama
Based on the infamous Jessica Lal murder case, this film highlights the power of media and public outrage in the pursuit of justice. Starring Rani Mukerji as a fiery journalist and Vidya Balan as Jessica’s sister, the film delivers a gripping courtroom drama infused with social commentary.
Why You Should Watch It:
- Inspired by real-life events
- Strong feminist themes and powerful performances
- A compelling story of justice against all odds
4. Talvar (2015) – A Masterpiece in Investigative Crime Drama
Directed by Meghna Gulzar and written by Vishal Bhardwaj, Talvar is based on the real-life Noida double murder case. The film presents multiple perspectives on the crime, leaving the audience to judge what truly happened. Featuring Irrfan Khan in a stellar role, Talvar is an engrossing crime procedural.
Why You Should Watch It:
- A gripping retelling of a controversial real-life case
- Thought-provoking narrative structure
- Irrfan Khan’s remarkable performance
5. Ek Hasina Thi (2004) – A Tale of Love, Deception, and Revenge
Sriram Raghavan’s directorial debut, Ek Hasina Thi, is a thriller that follows a woman’s transformation from an innocent lover to a vengeful force. Urmila Matondkar and Saif Ali Khan deliver career-defining performances in this noir-inspired revenge drama.
Why You Should Watch It:
- A gripping revenge thriller with a powerful female lead
- Twists and turns that keep you hooked
- A dark and unpredictable storyline
6. Manorama Six Feet Under (2007) – A Bollywood Noir Classic
This underrated gem, directed by Navdeep Singh, is a tribute to classic film noir. The movie follows an amateur detective (Abhay Deol) who gets entangled in a complex web of deceit, murder, and political conspiracy. The slow-burn narrative and atmospheric storytelling make it a must-watch.
Why You Should Watch It:
- Inspired by Chinatown (1974), but with a distinct Indian touch
- A captivating mix of suspense and intrigue
- Abhay Deol’s compelling performance
7. Johnny Gaddaar (2007) – A Stylish Crime Caper
Sriram Raghavan’s Johnny Gaddaar is an exhilarating crime thriller about betrayal within a gang of criminals. With its fast-paced narrative, unpredictable twists, and sharp dialogues, this film is an overlooked gem in Bollywood’s crime thriller genre.
Why You Should Watch It:
- Stylish neo-noir cinematography
- Smart screenplay with a gripping storyline
- Neil Nitin Mukesh’s impressive debut
Bollywood has a treasure trove of crime thrillers that deserve more recognition. These movies not only deliver suspense and mystery but also provide thought-provoking insights into crime, justice, and morality. If you’re looking to explore beyond the mainstream, these underrated Bollywood crime thrillers will keep you on the edge of your seat.
FAQs
1. What are the best underrated Bollywood crime thrillers?
Some of the best underrated Bollywood crime thrillers include Ugly, Raman Raghav 2.0, Talvar, Johnny Gaddaar, and Manorama Six Feet Under.
2. Are Bollywood crime thrillers as good as Hollywood thrillers?
Yes, Bollywood crime thrillers offer unique storytelling, deep character development, and social relevance, making them just as compelling as Hollywood thrillers.
3. Where can I watch these movies?
Many of these films are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar.
4. Who are some of the best directors in the Bollywood crime thriller genre?
Anurag Kashyap, Sriram Raghavan, Meghna Gulzar, and Vishal Bhardwaj are some of the most acclaimed directors known for their gripping crime thrillers.
5. Which Bollywood crime thriller is based on a true story?
Talvar and No One Killed Jessica are based on real-life crime cases in India, offering a dramatized but insightful look into the justice system.
If you love crime thrillers, these underrated Bollywood gems are definitely worth adding to your watchlist!
