Twists and Turns Indian cinema has experienced a renaissance in the thriller genre over the last few years, offering gripping tales packed with unexpected twists, intense drama, and unforgettable characters. From psychological dramas to action-packed mysteries, recent masterpieces in Indian thriller cinema have left audiences enthralled. Here’s a curated list of standout films that showcase the brilliance of modern storytelling in this genre.
1. Drishyam 2 (2022)
A sann Khurrana, Tabu, and Radhika Apte make it a standout.
3. Ratsasan (2018)
This Tamil filmequel to the iconic Drishyam (2015), this film directed by Jeethu Joseph takes the story of Georgekutty (played by Mohanlal in Malayalam, Ajay Devgn in Hindi) to new heights. The meticulous writing and unexpected developments make it a prime example of a thriller that keeps audiences guessing.
2. Andhadhun (2018)
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Andhadhun is a dark comedy-thriller that follows the life of a blind pianist whose world is turned upside down after witnessing a murder. The layered narrative and stellar performances by Ayushm directed by Ram Kumar is a psychological thriller about a rookie cop chasing a ruthless serial killer. Known for its taut pacing and bone-chilling suspense, Ratsasan has set new benchmarks in Indian thrillers.
4. Kahaani (2012)
Though a decade old, Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani continues to inspire modern thrillers. Vidya Balan’s portrayal of a determined pregnant woman navigating the labyrinthine streets of Kolkata to find her missing husband remains iconic. The film’s climactic twist is legendary.
5. Vikram Vedha (2017)
Pushkar-Gayathri’s Tamil neo-noir thriller offers a moral puzzle inspired by the folk tale of Vikram and Betaal. Featuring R. Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi in electrifying roles, the film explores the grey areas of morality through a cat-and-mouse game.
6. Thadam (2019)
Directed by Magizh Thirumeni, this Tamil thriller weaves an intricate tale of a murder investigation complicated by the existence of identical twins. With clever writing and unexpected twists, Thadam is a must-watch.
7. Badla (2019)
Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu shine in this Hindi adaptation of the Spanish thriller The Invisible Guest. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, Badla explores themes of revenge and justice through a riveting whodunit narrative.
8. Evaru (2019)
This Telugu thriller is a brilliant reimagining of The Invisible Guest, packed with its own unique twists and turns. Directed by Venkat Ramji, Evaru stands out for its gripping performances and a tightly woven script.
9. Super Deluxe (2019)
Thiagarajan Kumararaja’s Super Deluxe defies categorization, blending multiple storylines into a cohesive and thrilling narrative. While it is not a conventional thriller, its unpredictability and layered storytelling leave viewers on edge.
10. Game Over (2019)
Starring Taapsee Pannu, this psychological thriller by Ashwin Saravanan delves into themes of trauma and survival. Its innovative storytelling and edge-of-the-seat tension have made it a favorite among thriller enthusiasts.
Honorable Mentions
- U Turn (2018): A supernatural thriller that delivers a powerful social message.
- Mumbai Police (2013): A Malayalam film praised for its shocking climax.
- Article 15 (2019): A socially conscious thriller that blends mystery with hard-hitting commentary.
Why These Films Stand Out
Recent Indian thrillers stand out due to their innovative scripts, attention to detail, and exceptional performances. Directors are increasingly exploring morally complex characters, unconventional narratives, and multi-layered plots that challenge the audience’s expectations.
Conclusion
Indian thriller cinema is currently enjoying a golden age, with filmmakers crafting stories that balance commercial appeal with creative depth. These films not only showcase the industry’s evolving storytelling prowess but also establish its place on the global cinematic stage. Whether you’re a fan of psychological suspense or high-stakes crime dramas, these masterpieces are bound to leave you spellbound.
