Sometimes the best crime thrillers are the ones that sneak up on you. These eight Indian crime movies didn’t arrive with massive hype or star-studded promotions, but they packed a punch with gripping plots, unexpected twists, and powerful performances. From slow-burn mysteries like Raat Akeli Hai to psychological thrillers like Jaane Jaan and gritty tales like Lucky Bhaskar, these hidden gems prove that great storytelling doesn’t need loud marketing. If you’re craving edge-of-your-seat suspense, this list is your next binge guide.
1. Lucky Bhaskar (Netflix, IMDb: 8.0)
Dulquer Salmaan plays a simple bank clerk whose life spirals into chaos after he becomes entangled in a high-stakes money laundering operation. What begins as a risky decision soon snowballs into a tense game of survival, as Bhaskar tries to stay ahead of the law and clear his name. With intense drama, emotional turns, and gripping storytelling, this thriller explores how ambition and desperation can change an ordinary man’s life forever.
2. Deva (Netflix, IMDb: 7.5)
Shahid Kapoor stars as a rebellious cop who suffers memory loss after a mysterious accident. Despite his condition, he’s assigned to investigate the murder of a fellow officer, only to find clues that connect to his own forgotten past. As shocking truths begin to surface, Deva finds himself torn between his duty and his identity. This stylish action-thriller packs suspense, emotional depth, and a strong performance from Kapoor.
3. Monica, O My Darling (Netflix, IMDb: 7.4)
This neo-noir crime comedy stars Rajkummar Rao as a robotics expert caught in a deadly plot of blackmail and murder. As he tries to untangle the web of deceit, he finds himself surrounded by quirky suspects and dangerous secrets. With dark humor, retro charm, and unexpected twists, the film keeps you entertained from start to finish. Also featuring Huma Qureshi and Radhika Apte, it’s a stylish and fast-paced ride.
4. Haseen Dillruba (Netflix, IMDb: 6.9)
In this dark romantic thriller, Rani becomes the prime suspect in her husband’s brutal murder. As the police dig into their complicated marriage, a twisted tale of love, betrayal, and obsession unfolds. Taapsee Pannu delivers a powerful performance in this gripping story that explores how dangerous passion can get when trust is broken. With bold storytelling and intense chemistry, the film keeps you guessing until the very end.
5. Raat Akeli Hai (Netflix, IMDb: 7.2)
When a newlywed groom is found dead on his wedding night, a determined cop dives into the case, uncovering secrets hidden within a powerful family. As he peels back layers of lies and deceit, the truth threatens to destroy everything. Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte lead this intense murder mystery set against the backdrop of small-town India. With suspense and atmospheric tension, it’s a gripping watch.
6. A Thursday (JioHotstar, IMDb: 7.7)
Yami Gautam plays a school teacher who shocks the nation by taking 16 children hostage. What begins as a mystery turns into a calculated mission to expose dark secrets and demand justice. As police, media, and politicians scramble to control the crisis, her motivations unfold in unexpected ways. This psychological thriller delivers a sharp, thought-provoking narrative on power, trauma, and truth.
7. Sikandar Ka Muqaddar (IMDb: 6.0)
In this gripping heist thriller, a determined cop goes after a cunning criminal behind a diamond robbery that shocked the city. As the chase unfolds, secrets and betrayals come to light. With Jimmy Shergill, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Avinash Tiwary in key roles, the film delivers high-stakes action, suspense, and emotional twists that keep viewers engaged till the very end.
8. Jaane Jaan (Netflix, IMDb: 7.0)
Set in the quiet town of Kalimpong, this thriller follows a single mother who becomes a suspect in her husband’s disappearance. With help from her introverted neighbor-who has secrets of his own-she tries to cover up the truth. But a sharp cop begins to close in. With strong performances by Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Vijay Varma, this is a suspenseful and emotional story where no one is truly innocent.
So which ones are you watching this weekend!