Unveiling Indian Thrillers that Pack a Punch with Stunning Twists and Dark Secrets Revealed
Indian cinema has been making waves in the thriller genre, with modern productions featuring darker, intricate narratives, psychological tension, and social commentary. Recent examples include "Kahaani" (2012) and "Andhadhun" (2018), both of which have captivated audiences with their emotional depth and storytelling prowess.
"Kahaani" tells the story of a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata, culminating in an unbelievable climax that redefines the narrative. On the other hand, "Andhadhun" keeps viewers guessing until the very last frame, with an open-ended conclusion and layers of deception.
Another standout is "Drishyam" (2015 & 2022), a film that showcases a family's desperate attempts to cover up a crime, leading to an unforgettable climax that questions viewers' moral compasses. "Tumbbad" (2018) is a horror-thriller that blends folklore with psychological horror, culminating in a shocking and deeply unsettling revelation.
Recent Indian thrillers have been noted for their unique storytelling techniques and shocking twists. "Kuberaa" (IMDB rating 7.3/10) and "Raid 2" (7/10), both released in 2025, have been praised for their engrossing narratives. Another notable film is "ACE" (8.6/10), which has been praised for its strong storytelling in the thriller genre.
The Hindi thriller "Crazzy" (2025) has been highlighted for its Tarantino-style blend of tension, style, raw intensity, and bold storytelling. It pushes boundaries with a mix of homage and character study, making it a unique and intense thriller experience.
In the realm of South Indian crime suspense thrillers, "Detective Ujjwalan" (IMDb rating 6.2) stands out for its compelling story centered around the detective Ujjwalan. It contributes to the genre's growth by blending crime investigation with emotional depth.
These examples demonstrate recent Indian thrillers leveraging innovative narrative structures and unexpected plot twists to enhance the genre's appeal. For instance, "Badla" (2019) is a revenge thriller filled with deception and a gripping finale that forces the audience to reevaluate everything they thought they knew about the characters.
Indian thrillers have evolved from early classics like "Bees Saal Baad" (1962) and "Gumnaam" (1965), incorporating distinct Indian elements and adopting suspenseful storytelling. Today, they continue to captivate audiences with their unexpected twists and jaw-dropping revelations, solidifying their place as a significant force in global cinema.
[1] IMDB ratings as of 2025 [2] Review from The Hindu, 2025 [3] Review from The Times of India, 2025 [4] IMDB rating as of 2025 release date
- Animation and drama take a backseat in the thrilling world of modern Indian movies-and-tv, where suspenseful storytelling, psychological tension, and dark narratives take center stage.
- Attempts at expanding the horizons of Indian cinema include ventures into new genres such as horror-thriller ("Tumbbad" - 2018) and even a Tarantino-style blend of tension, style, and raw intensity ("Crazzy" - 2025).
- Evolving from classic suspense stories like "Bees Saal Baad" (1962) and "Gumnaam" (1965), today's Indian thrillers captivate audiences with intricate narratives and unexpected plot twists, earning recognition and praise within the entertainment industry (as seen in reviews from The Hindu and The Times of India in 2025).
