Ten Lesser-Known Indian Thriller Movies That Will Astonish You Silently
Indian cinema has been producing a wealth of thrillers that often go unnoticed amidst the mainstream Bollywood fare. These underrated gems offer unique plotlines, complex characters, and unpredictable twists, making them a must-watch for any thriller enthusiast.
Rediscovering the Classics
Some older Bollywood thrillers such as Kahaani (2011), Talaash (2012), and Badla (2018) are often highlighted as gems for their well-crafted suspense and unexpected plot developments. These films, though not from 2025, still hold unique storytelling value.
2025's Underrated Thrillers
Chhorii 2
A socially charged horror thriller, Chhorii 2 (2025) is noted for its unnerving visuals and strong performances. It blends social issues with horror elements, which is less common in typical thrillers.
The Diplomat
Featuring John Abraham, The Diplomat (2025) is praised for its compelling narrative and strong performances, offering a mix of action and political intrigue with complex character motivations.
Legally Veer (Telugu)
This Telugu thriller follows a man dealing with the pain of losing his wife, incorporating emotional depth along with suspense, making the character complexity a highlight.
South Indian Suspense Thrillers
Some lesser-known South Indian suspense thrillers from 2025 are recognized for intricate mysteries and emotional investigations with strong twists. These films often mix crime with emotional storytelling and intense suspense, providing a fresh experience distinct from mainstream Bollywood thrillers.
Modern Thrillers Worth Your Time
Drishyam
Drishyam (2013) is a Malayalam thriller that follows Georgekutty, a man who uses his wit to protect his family from a crime they didn't commit.
Ugly
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Ugly (2013) revolves around a missing girl and the subsequent tale of betrayal. The film showcases exceptional performances, particularly Naseeruddin Shah's quiet intensity. Ugly offers a fresh perspective on the thriller genre, combining local cultural nuances with universal themes.
Game Over
Game Over (2019) is a mind-bending thriller starring Taapsee Pannu, blending survival horror with psychological tension.
Karthik Calling Karthik
In Karthik Calling Karthik (2010), Farhan Akhtar plays a lonely man who begins receiving mysterious phone calls from someone who claims to be him.
The Body
The Body (2019) is a lesser-known thriller, but no details about the film were provided in the text.
Talvar
Talvar (2015) is a gripping courtroom thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar, based on the real-life Aarushi Talwar murder case, exploring multiple perspectives on the case.
Streaming and Availability
Ugly (2013) can be streamed on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar. Kahaani, Talaash, Badla, Black Friday, and Visaranai are available on DVD and Blu-ray editions. The Body (2019) and Chhorii 2, The Diplomat, and Legally Veer (Telugu) are yet to be confirmed for digital streaming or physical release.
Exploring the Dark Side
These selections represent films that combine original storytelling with layered characters and unpredictable twists, making them appealing picks for thriller enthusiasts looking for something beyond mainstream fare. Many of these films also delve into dark themes, exploring jealousy, desperation, moral decay, and the gritty realities of crime and police brutality.
[1] Source: Variety (www.variety.com) [3] Source: The Hindu (www.thehindu.com) [4] Source: Film Companion (www.filmcompanion.in) [5] Source: Rediff (www.rediff.com)
- Despite their earlier release years, the Bollywood thrillers Kahaani (2011), Talaash (2012), and Badla (2018) continue to be praised for their suspenseful narratives, making them worthy rediscoveries for any thriller connoisseur.
- The 2025 thriller Chhorii 2, fusing social issues with horror elements, offers a fresh blend that is less common in conventional thrillers, setting it apart as an underrated gem.
- Legally Veer, a Telugu thriller, showcases an emotional depth alongside suspense, focusing on a man struggling with his wife's loss, thus making character complexity a focal point.
- Venturing into the realm of South Indian thrillers, several lesser-known films from 2025 highlight intricate mysteries and emotional investigations, providing a distinct and captivating experience compared to mainstream Bollywood thrillers.
