Thriller movies are a popular genre that has captivated audiences for decades.
From suspenseful mysteries to heart-pumping action, thrillers offer a unique combination of excitement, tension, and intrigue that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
While many thriller movies have gained critical acclaim and commercial success, some underrated thrillers have also flown under the radar.
Here, we are enlisting some of the best-underrated thriller movies of all time.
The Conversation (1974)
The Conversation is a psychological thriller directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Gene Hackman, John Cazale, and Allen Garfield.
The film follows a surveillance expert named Harry Caul (Hackman) who becomes obsessed with a conversation he has recorded and fears that the people involved may be in danger.
Despite its critical acclaim, “The Conversation” is often overlooked in discussions of Coppola’s filmography. The film is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, with a haunting score and an unforgettable performance from Hackman.
The movie explores themes of privacy, morality, and the human cost of surveillance, and it remains a haunting and thought-provoking thriller to this day.
The Vanishing (1988)
“The Vanishing is a Dutch thriller directed by George Sluizer and starring Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu, Johanna ter Steege, and Gene Bervoets.
The film follows a man named Rex (Bervoets) who becomes obsessed with the disappearance of his girlfriend Saskia (ter Steege) during a vacation in France.
“The Vanishing” is a chilling and suspenseful thriller that slowly builds tension as Rex delves deeper into the mystery of Saskia’s disappearance.
The film explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the limits of human connection, and it features a shocking and unforgettable climax that has become the stuff of cinematic legend.
Cold in July (2014)
It is a highly underrated thriller film directed by Jim Mickle and starring Michael C. Hall, Sam Shepard, and Don Johnson. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Joe R. Lansdale.
The movie is set in East Texas in the 1980s and tells the story of Richard Dane (Michael C. Hall), a small-town picture framer who kills an intruder in his home in self-defense.
When the intruder’s father, a hardened ex-con named Russel (Sam Shepard), begins to threaten Richard’s family, Richard teams up with a private investigator named Jim Bob (Don Johnson) to uncover a web of corruption and murder that puts them all in danger.
The film has been praised for its genre-bending approach, blending crime, thriller, and horror elements. It explores themes of masculinity, vigilantism, and the cost of violence.
The lead actors’ performances have also been widely acclaimed, particularly Sam Shepard’s portrayal of the complex and volatile Russel.
The film got positive reviews from critics and was noted for its stylish direction, strong performances, and unpredictable plot twists. It has been praised as a modern neo-noir and has become a cult favorite among fans of the thriller genre.
Nightcrawler (2014)
Nightcrawler is a thriller directed by Dan Gilroy and starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Louis Bloom, a driven and desperate man who becomes a freelance crime journalist in Los Angeles.
The movie follows Bloom as he captures and sells footage of violent crimes and accidents, pushing the boundaries of what is ethical in pursuing success.
The movie is known for its intense and unsettling atmosphere and Gyllenhaal’s gripping performance as the manipulative and ruthless Bloom.
The film also sharply critiques the media and how it sensationalizes violence. It is a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that is not to be missed.
The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)
This is a psychological thriller directed by Curtis Hanson and starring Rebecca De Mornay, Annabella Sciorra, and Matt McCoy.
The film follows a woman named Peyton Flanders (De Mornay) who seeks revenge against a family she blames for her husband’s suicide.
Despite its box office success, this movie is often overlooked in discussions of the thriller genre.
The film is a masterclass in suspense, with a complex and nuanced portrayal of its villain that makes her both sympathetic and terrifying.
The movie also explores themes of motherhood, power, and the destructive nature of revenge, making it a thought-provoking and unforgettable thriller.
Blue Ruin (2013)
Blue Ruin is a 2013 independent thriller movie directed by Jeremy Saulnier. The film was funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign and received critical acclaim for its suspenseful storyline, moody atmosphere, and excellent performances.
The movie follows the story of Dwight (Macon Blair), a homeless man living in his car and scavenging for food.
When he learns that the man who murdered his parents is being released from prison, he sets out on a revenge mission. However, his plan quickly goes awry, and he finds himself caught in a dangerous and violent situation that spirals out of control.
One of the most striking aspects of this film is its realistic and gritty portrayal of violence.
The movie eschews the typical Hollywood-style action sequences in favor of realistic, brutal violence that is both shocking and effective. This is a film that understands the impact of violence and does not shy away from the consequences.
The movie is also notable for its excellent cinematography and sound design. The quiet, tense moments are punctuated by the sound of nature, such as the crunching of leaves or the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore.
The camera work is also superb, with long takes and close-ups that enhance the tension and claustrophobia of the story.
Macon Blair’s performance as Dwight is also a standout feature of the movie. He imbues the character with a quiet intensity and a sense of sympathetic and terrifying desperation. The character of Dwight is not your typical Hollywood hero but rather a flawed and vulnerable man who is driven by his desire for revenge.
Overall, the movie is a gripping and intense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Its commitment to realism and its moody atmosphere make it a standout film in the thriller genre.
If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you guessing until the end, Blue Ruin is definitely worth watching.
The Girl on the Train (2016)
The Girl on the Train is a psychological thriller movie directed by Tate Taylor and based on the best-selling novel by Paula Hawkins.
The movie follows Rachel (Emily Blunt), an alcoholic divorcee who becomes obsessed with a couple she sees every day on her train ride to work.
When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation and begins to unravel the dark secrets of those around her.
The movie is known for its gripping plot and excellent performances, particularly by Blunt.
The film offers a commentary on the dangers of obsession and the toxic nature of some relationships. This film is a thrilling and well-crafted movie that is perfect for fans of the genre.
The Machinist (2004)
The Machinist is a psychological thriller directed by Brad Anderson and starring Christian Bale, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Aitana Sanchez-Gijon.
The film follows a machinist named Trevor Reznik (Bale), who is haunted by a mysterious figure that may or may not be a figment of his imagination.
This haunting and unsettling film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the human psyche.
Bale delivers a powerful and unforgettable performance as the emaciated and haunted Reznik. The film’s surreal atmosphere and sense of dread make it a truly underrated gem of the thriller genre.
Burn (2019)
Burn is a must-watch thriller movie directed by Mike Gan. The movie is about a gas station clerk named Melinda (Tilda Cobham-Hervey), who is caught in the middle of a dangerous heist gone wrong.
The movie’s plot centers around Melinda’s attempt to survive the night as the robbers and police clash in a violent standoff.
The movie is set in a remote gas station in the middle of the desert, where Melinda works the night shift. One night, a group of robbers demands money from Melinda, the only one working at the gas station.
The situation becomes increasingly dangerous as the night passes, and Melinda must use all her wits and skills to survive.
Its focus on character development sets the movie apart from other heist movies. As the plot unfolds, the audience learns more about Melinda’s past and the events that led her to be working at the gas station.
This adds depth to the character and makes the audience invested in her survival.
You are also going to love the gritty and realistic portrayal of violence. The violence is not glamourized or sensationalized but rather shown in a raw and realistic manner that adds to the tension and suspense of the movie.
Overall, the movie is a well-crafted and intense thriller that is perfect for fans of the genre. It offers a commentary on the nature of violence and the human condition and is a great addition to the heist movie genre.
The Invitation (2015)
The Invitation is a psychological thriller directed by Karyn Kusama and starring Logan Marshall-Green, Tammy Blanchard, and Michiel Huisman.
The film follows a man named Will (Marshall-Green) who attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife and her new husband, only to realize that something sinister may be afoot.
Its a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, with a slow burn that builds to a shocking and unforgettable climax.
The film explores themes of grief, trauma, and the power of belief, and it features a powerful and nuanced performance from Marshall-Green as a man struggling to come to terms with his past.
Coherence (2013)
Coherence is one of the most underrated science fiction thrillers which James Ward Byrkit directed. The film has gained a cult following since its release due to its intricate plot, clever writing, and unique approach to the genre.
The movie follows a group of friends who gather for a dinner party on the night of a rare astronomical event.
As the night progresses, strange occurrences happen, and the group realizes they are not alone. The story takes unexpected turns as the characters struggle to understand what is happening and how to survive the night.
One of the strengths of this movie is its use of a small budget to create a highly effective and suspenseful story.
The film takes place in a single location, focusing on the characters’ interactions rather than special effects or action scenes. The writing is clever, and the story keeps the audience guessing until the end.
The performances in the film are also noteworthy, particularly that of Emily Baldoni as Em. Her portrayal of a woman struggling to hold onto her sanity in the face of the bizarre events around her is both nuanced and compelling.
The rest of the cast also delivers strong performances, and the chemistry between them creates a sense of tension that adds to the overall suspense of the story.
This is a film that rewards multiple viewings. The story is complex, and the attention to detail in the writing and production design is impressive.
The film is a testament to the power of great storytelling, and it is one of the best examples of a low-budget independent film that punches above its weight.
Overall, Coherence is a must-see for science fiction and thrillers fans. The intricate plot, strong performances, and clever writing make it one of the genre’s most memorable and unique films.
A Simple Plan (1998)
A Simple Plan is a crime thriller directed by Sam Raimi and starring Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thornton, and Bridget Fonda.
The film follows three men who find a bag of money in a crashed airplane and decide to keep it, only to find themselves drawn into a web of deception and murder.
Despite its critical acclaim, the movie is often overlooked in discussions of Raimi’s filmography. The movie is a tense and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of greed, morality, and the corrupting influence of power.
The film features Paxton’s powerful and nuanced performance as a man struggling to do the right thing in the face of overwhelming temptation. It remains a powerful and underrated gem of the thriller genre.
Grand Piano (2013)
Grand Piano is a thriller directed by Eugenio Mira and starring Elijah Wood and John Cusack. The film centers around a pianist named Tom Selznick (Elijah Wood), who returns to the stage after a five-year absence to perform a concert in tribute to his late mentor.
As he begins to play, he realizes he is being targeted by a mysterious sniper (John Cusack) who has threatened to kill him and his wife if he makes a single mistake during his performance.
The movie takes place almost entirely during the performance and is notable for its use of tension and suspense. As Tom tries to outwit his attacker, he is forced to confront the demons of his past and the secrets that have kept him from performing for so long.
The film’s musical score, composed by Victor Reyes, also plays a significant role in building the tension and atmosphere of the story.
The movie received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its suspenseful storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Elijah Wood.
The film has been compared to Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” for its use of a single setting and tense atmosphere. It has become a cult favorite among thriller fans and is noted for its creative approach to the genre.
Zodiac (2007)
Zodiac is a true crime thriller directed by David Fincher and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey Jr.
The film follows a cartoonist named Robert Graysmith (Gyllenhaal), who becomes obsessed with the case of the Zodiac Killer, a serial killer who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1960s and 1970s.
Despite its critical acclaim, the movie is often overlooked in discussions of Fincher’s filmography. The movie is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, with a haunting score and a sense of dread that permeates every scene.
The film explores themes of obsession, justice, and the limits of human knowledge. It features a powerful and nuanced performance from Gyllenhaal as a man struggling to find the truth in the face of overwhelming corruption and deceit.
The Chaser (2008)
The Chaser is a South Korean thriller directed by Na Hong-jin and starring Kim Yoon-seok and Ha Jung-woo.
The film follows a former detective named Joong-ho (Kim), who becomes a pimp and is forced to hunt down one of his former prostitutes who has gone missing.
It is a tense and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of corruption, justice, and the human cost of greed.
The movie features powerful and nuanced performances from its cast and a shocking and unforgettable climax that cements it as one of the most underrated thrillers of all time.
The Guest (2014)
The Guest is a thriller directed by Adam Wingard and starring Dan Stevens, Maika Monroe, and Brendan Meyer.
The film follows a soldier named David (Stevens) who visits the Peterson family, claiming to be a friend of their deceased son, only to reveal a dark and dangerous agenda.
It is a tense and suspenseful thriller that combines elements of action, horror, and suspense to create a truly unique and unforgettable film.
The movie features a powerful and nuanced performance from Stevens as a man struggling with war trauma, and it explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the corrupting influence of power.
The Invisible Guest (2016)
The Invisible Guest is a Spanish mystery thriller film directed by Oriol Paulo. The film was released in 2016 and received critical acclaim for its intricate plot, clever twists, and strong performances.
The movie follows the story of a successful businessman named Adrián Doria (Mario Casas), who is accused of murder. He hires a prestigious defense lawyer, Virginia Goodman (Ana Wagener), to help him prove his innocence.
Throughout the course of the movie, Adrián recounts the events leading up to the murder, revealing a web of secrets and lies that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.
One of the strengths of this film is its well-crafted plot. The story is full of twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end.
The movie keeps its audience engaged and invested in the story by slowly revealing key information at just the right moment.
The performances in the film are also noteworthy, particularly that of Mario Casas as Adrián Doria. His portrayal of a man on the brink of losing everything is both sympathetic and chilling.
Ana Wagener’s character of Virginia Goodman, the defense lawyer, is also a standout. She brings a strong sense of intelligence and determination to the role, and her scenes with Adrián are some of the most memorable in the film.
The movie is also notable for its excellent cinematography and production design. The claustrophobic and dark settings create a sense of tension and unease that perfectly complements the story’s tone.
Overall, This movie is a must-see for fans of the mystery and thriller genres. The well-crafted plot, strong performances, and excellent production values make it one of the best thrillers out of Spain in recent years.
The Glass House (2011)
The Glass House is a 2001 psychological thriller movie directed by Daniel Sackheim.
The movie follows two teenagers, Ruby (Leelee Sobieski) and Rhett (Trevor Morgan), orphaned after their parents die in a car crash.
The movie’s plot centers around their struggle to adapt to their new life with their parents’ old friends, who they soon realize have a dark secret.
After their parents’ death, Ruby and Rhett are taken in by their parents’ old friends, Terry and Erin Glass (Stellan Skarsgard and Diane Lane).
The Glass family appears to be the perfect family on the surface, but as the plot unfolds, Ruby and Rhett begin to uncover the family’s dark secrets. They soon realize that the Glass family is not what they seem and are in danger.
What sets “The Glass House” apart from other psychological thrillers is its focus on the relationship between the two siblings.
The movie explores the bond between Ruby and Rhett, and how they must rely on each other to survive in their new environment.
The movie is also known for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere. As the plot unfolds, the audience is kept on the edge of their seat, wondering what will happen next. The movie offers a commentary on the nature of trust and how easy it is to be deceived by those we think we know.
Overall, This movie is a well-crafted and intensely psychological thriller that is perfect for fans of the genre. It offers a commentary on the dark side of human nature and is a great addition to the thriller movie genre.
The Gift (2015)
The Gift is a psychological thriller directed by Joel Edgerton and starring Jason Bateman, Rebecca Hall, and Edgerton himself.
The film follows a couple who are visited by an old acquaintance who begins to wreak havoc on their lives, revealing dark secrets and hidden agendas.
It is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, with a slow burn that builds to a shocking and unforgettable climax.
The movie explores themes of past traumas, the power of secrets, and the consequences of our actions. It features Bateman’s powerful and nuanced performance, who departs from his usual comedic roles to deliver a chilling performance as a man with a dark past.
Calibre (2018)
“Calibre” is a British thriller directed by Matt Palmer and released in 2018. The movie follows two lifelong friends, Marcus (Martin McCann) and Vaughn (Jack Lowden), who go on a hunting trip to the Scottish Highlands.
During the trip, the men accidentally shoot a young boy, mistaking him for a deer, and try to cover up their mistake.
The movie is known for its tense and suspenseful plot, as the two friends struggle to keep their secret hidden from the authorities and the boy’s family.
As the situation escalates, their loyalty to each other is tested, and the consequences of their actions become increasingly severe.
Calibre received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay, with many reviewers praising its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The movie was also praised for exploring themes such as guilt, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s actions.
The movie is a well-crafted, gripping, thought-provoking thriller with strong performances and a well-executed plot that keeps viewers engaged until the end.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs is a classic thriller movie that won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
The movie is directed by Jonathan Demme and stars Jodie Foster as FBI trainee Clarice Starling, who is assigned to interview notorious cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) to gain insight into the mind of another serial killer, Buffalo Bill.
The movie is famous for its suspenseful storytelling, excellent performances, and disturbing imagery.
The psychological game Lecter and Starling play is masterful, and the movie has some truly chilling scenes that will stick with viewers long after the credits roll. “The Silence of the Lambs” is a must-watch for any fan of the thriller genre.
Hush (2016)
“Hush” is a slasher movie directed by Mike Flanagan. The movie follows a deaf writer named Maddie (Kate Siegel) who lives in isolation in the woods.
When a masked killer appears at her doorstep, Maddie must use all her wits and skills to survive.
The movie is known for its unique premise and excellent execution. The lack of sound adds to the tension, and Siegel’s excellent performance as the resourceful and resilient Maddie.
The movie offers a commentary on the importance of adaptability and the strength of the human spirit. This movie is a well-crafted and thrilling movie that is perfect for fans of the slasher genre.
The movie’s plot revolves around a masked killer who shows up at Maddie’s doorstep one night and terrorizes her. Maddie, unable to hear the killer due to her deafness, must use all her wits and skills to survive the night.
As the night wears on, Maddie is forced to think on her feet and use all her senses to outsmart the killer. She must find a way to protect herself from the attacker and outlast the night.
The tension builds as the killer plays a game of cat and mouse with Maddie, who must use her intelligence and resourcefulness to outmaneuver him.
What makes this movie unique is its use of sound. As a deaf person, Maddie cannot hear the killer coming, and the film uses this to create a sense of tension and suspense that is rarely seen in horror movies.
Featured Image Source: Indiwire