Indian Thriller Movies: Overlooked and Underrated Gems Worth Celebrating

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Indian cinema has been making waves in the global film industry, particularly with its thriller genre. These movies, known for their engaging plots, original scripts, and unique storytelling techniques, have been captivating audiences worldwide.

First-time viewers can start their journey with films like 'Andhadhun' and 'Drishyam'. 'Andhadhun', released in 2018, is a gripping tale of a blind pianist who finds himself entangled in a murder mystery, leading to unexpected twists and winning multiple national and international awards. 'Drishyam' (2015), on the other hand, is a gripping story of a father trying to protect his family from the law after an accidental crime, inspired by a true story and later adapted into multiple languages.

Filmmakers such as Sriram Raghavan, Anurag Kashyap, and Sujoy Ghosh have revolutionised the thriller genre in India. They have employed non-linear storytelling, intricate plot twists, and realistic characters, setting Indian thrillers apart from their Hollywood counterparts.

Indian thrillers often weave socio-political themes into their narratives, providing a gripping crime story while also shedding light on flaws in the legal system. For instance, 'Talvar' (2015) is based on real-life events and brilliantly executed with Rashomon-style storytelling.

The thriller genre in Indian cinema has evolved significantly over the years. It has its roots in the black-and-white era, with classics like 'Mahal' (1949) laying the foundation for suspense-driven narratives. Today, Indian cinema explores a wide range of thriller subgenres, including psychological thrillers, investigative crime dramas, and films that blend horror with mythological thriller elements, such as 'Tumbbad' (2018), a dark fantasy thriller rooted in Indian mythology and folklore, lauded for its stunning cinematography and unique narrative.

Recent years have seen a surge in the demand for high-quality, suspense-driven storytelling in Indian cinema. Films like 'Paatal Lok' and 'Sacred Games' showcase this trend, with their complex narratives and intriguing plots.

The growing popularity of Indian thrillers can be attributed to their universal themes, such as crime, mystery, and psychological suspense, which make them appealing to a global audience. Moreover, the advent of OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar has made these movies accessible to a wider audience, thereby increasing their reach and impact.

In conclusion, Indian thrillers are not just captivating audiences within the country, but are also making a mark globally. With their compelling narratives, brilliant direction, and outstanding performances, these movies have the potential to continue dominating the global film landscape.