Best 2010s Hindi Crime Thrillers Ranked

Sudhir Mishra's 'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny' is a raw, multi-narrative exploration of urban desperation and interconnected lives. Set against the backdrop of Mumbai's underbelly, it weaves together stories of a drug addict, a hitman, a struggling actor, and a young boy, all spiraling towards a tragic convergence. The film's strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of moral decay and the harsh realities faced by those on the fringes. While perhaps not as polished as some contemporaries, its gritty realism and ensemble performances offer a compelling, albeit bleak, commentary on survival in a ruthless city. It’s a stark reminder of the consequences of choices made in desperation.

Anurag Kashyap's 'Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 2' is the explosive, blood-soaked culmination of a generational feud. Picking up where its predecessor left off, this installment escalates the violence and ambition, focusing on Faizal Khan's relentless quest for vengeance. The film is a masterclass in character development, with Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivering a career-defining performance as the volatile yet vulnerable protagonist. Its raw energy, dark humor, and unflinching depiction of power struggles within a lawless landscape cemented its status as a modern classic. It’s a visceral, operatic saga that redefined the gangster genre in Hindi cinema, leaving an indelible mark.

Sriram Raghavan's 'Andhadhun' is a dazzling, darkly comedic masterpiece that constantly subverts expectations. Ayushmann Khurrana plays a seemingly blind pianist who witnesses a murder, plunging him into a labyrinth of deceit, moral ambiguity, and increasingly bizarre circumstances. The film's brilliance lies in its unpredictable narrative, sharp writing, and the way it toys with audience perceptions of truth and deception. Tabu delivers a chilling performance as the femme fatale, adding layers of complexity. 'Andhadhun' is a thrilling, intelligent ride that keeps viewers guessing until its ambiguous, thought-provoking conclusion, solidifying its place as a genre-bending triumph.

Anubhav Sinha's 'Article 15' is a searing, unflinching police procedural that bravely confronts the deep-seated issue of caste discrimination in rural India. Ayushmann Khurrana delivers a powerful performance as an upright police officer investigating the brutal rape and murder of two Dalit girls. The film masterfully blends the tension of a crime thriller with a potent social commentary, exposing the systemic prejudices and injustices that plague society. Its raw honesty, compelling narrative, and courageous stance make it more than just a film; it's a vital, uncomfortable, and necessary cinematic experience that demands introspection and dialogue.

Nishikant Kamat's 'Drishyam' is a masterclass in suspense and a testament to a father's unwavering resolve. Ajay Devgn delivers a compelling performance as Vijay Salgaonkar, a cable operator who meticulously crafts an elaborate alibi to protect his family after they commit an accidental crime. The film's strength lies in its intelligent screenplay, which keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, constantly questioning the boundaries of truth and deception. It's a taut, emotionally charged thriller that brilliantly explores the lengths one would go to for their loved ones, making it a standout example of a perfect crime narrative.

Ravi Udyawar's 'Mom' is a chilling and emotionally charged revenge thriller anchored by Sridevi's phenomenal final lead performance. She portrays Devki, a biology teacher who takes matters into her own hands after the justice system fails her stepdaughter, who is brutally assaulted. The film delves into the dark psyche of a mother driven by vengeance, blurring moral lines as she systematically dismantles the lives of the perpetrators. It's a powerful exploration of grief, rage, and the desperate pursuit of justice outside legal frameworks, leaving a profound impact through its intense narrative and Sridevi's unforgettable portrayal.

Neeraj Pandey's 'Special 26' is a slick, intelligent heist thriller inspired by real-life events. Akshay Kumar leads an ensemble cast as a con artist who, along with his team, poses as CBI officers to conduct fake income tax raids. The film is a meticulously crafted caper, brimming with clever twists, sharp dialogue, and a palpable sense of tension. It masterfully blends humor with suspense, keeping the audience engaged in its intricate plot. 'Special 26' stands out for its smart writing and compelling performances, offering a refreshing take on the heist genre that is both entertaining and thought-provoking about justice and deception.

Sujoy Ghosh's 'Badla' is a taut, dialogue-driven psychological thriller that thrives on its unreliable narrators and intricate plot. Amitabh Bachchan plays a seasoned lawyer defending Taapsee Pannu's character, Naina Sethi, who is accused of murder. The film unfolds primarily through their intense conversations, as layers of truth and deception are peeled back. Its strength lies in its gripping screenplay, sharp performances, and the constant shifting of perspectives that keeps the audience guessing. 'Badla' is a masterclass in building suspense through dialogue and character interplay, delivering a satisfyingly complex and unpredictable mystery.

Raj Kumar Gupta's 'Raid' is a gripping, no-nonsense thriller based on real-life income tax raids of the 1980s. Ajay Devgn delivers a stoic yet powerful performance as Amay Patnaik, an honest and relentless Income Tax officer who takes on a powerful, corrupt politician. The film excels in its realistic portrayal of bureaucratic battles and the sheer grit required to uphold integrity against overwhelming odds. It's a tense, well-paced narrative that highlights the courage of individuals fighting systemic corruption. 'Raid' is a compelling watch, offering both thrilling procedural drama and a strong moral core.

Anurag Kashyap's 'Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 1' is an epic, sprawling saga that redefined the Hindi gangster genre. This visceral origin story chronicles the century-long blood feud between the Qureshi and Khan families in the coal-mining town of Wasseypur. Its raw, authentic portrayal of violence, power, and revenge, coupled with a rich tapestry of characters and a distinctive soundtrack, created a cinematic experience unlike any other. Manoj Bajpayee's Sardar Khan is iconic, embodying the film's brutal ambition. It's a landmark achievement, setting the stage for a narrative that is both deeply rooted in Indian folklore and universally compelling.