8 Gripping Crime Thrillers on Amazon Prime That Will Keep You Hooked Till the End

When it comes to crime thrillers, there’s something undeniably addictive about a well-woven narrative filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and compelling performances. Whether it’s a tense investigation, a morally grey protagonist, or a mysterious disappearance, thrillers tap into our love for the unknown. If you’re someone who enjoys stories that keep you second-guessing till the very last minute, Amazon Prime Video has a range of films that promise exactly that—and more.

We’ve handpicked 8 crime thrillers on Prime that offer a mix of classic storytelling, edge-of-the-seat suspense, and unforgettable performances. From modern remakes of regional hits to unforgettable performances by legends like Naseeruddin Shah and Amitabh Bachchan, this list spans decades and styles. Some are based on real incidents, while others are entirely fictional but equally engaging. Let’s take a look at which ones deserve a spot on your watchlist.

1. Runway 34

Inspired by a real-life aviation incident from 2015 involving Jet Airways, Runway 34 is a tense and technically sound thriller that dives into the psychological state of a pilot during an emergency landing. Ajay Devgn not only stars in the lead role but also directs the film with a sense of urgency and realism. Sharing screen space with Amitabh Bachchan and Rakul Preet Singh, Devgn delivers a layered performance that blurs the lines between right and wrong, skill and instinct.

2. A Wednesday!

Released in 2008, this compact and tightly written thriller by Neeraj Pandey explores the theme of justice outside the boundaries of law. Naseeruddin Shah plays a mysterious man who threatens to detonate bombs across Mumbai unless his demands are met. Anupam Kher portrays the city’s Police Commissioner, who races against time to uncover the truth. The film’s climax is both powerful and thought-provoking, making it a timeless thriller that still resonates today.

3. Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!

Dibakar Banerjee’s stylish mystery thriller introduces us to Byomkesh, a young and intelligent detective in 1940s Calcutta. When a chemist mysteriously disappears, Byomkesh sets off on an investigation that leads to a much larger conspiracy threatening the city. Sushant Singh Rajput brings the iconic fictional sleuth to life with a fresh and nuanced performance. The film combines period drama with noir-style suspense and a gripping plot that steadily builds tension.

4. Baazigar

Before Shah Rukh Khan became the “King of Romance,” he stunned audiences with his chilling portrayal of a vengeful lover in Baazigar. Directed by Abbas-Mustan, this romantic thriller co-starring Kajol is loosely based on the 1991 American film A Kiss Before Dying. Khan plays a cold-hearted killer who manipulates and eliminates his victims with alarming precision. Its unforgettable soundtrack and shocking twists make Baazigar one of Bollywood’s boldest thrillers of the ’90s.

5. Drishyam 2

Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the hit film Drishyam. Set seven years after the events of the first part, the story reopens the murder investigation of Sam, throwing Vijay and his family back into the spotlight. A faithful remake of the 2021 Malayalam thriller starring Mohanlal, this version maintains the suspense and emotional depth while adding new layers to an already complex narrative. Devgn’s stoic and determined performance anchors this gripping sequel.

6. Aankhen

Aankhen takes a unique approach to the heist genre. Led by a powerful cast—Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Sushmita Sen, Arjun Rampal, and Paresh Rawal—the film revolves around a daring bank robbery executed by three visually impaired men. Meticulously trained and guided by a disgruntled former bank manager, the trio pulls off an impossible mission. What sets this film apart is its blend of thrill, ingenuity, and emotion, making it both entertaining and original.

7. Raazi

Based on Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, Raazi is a compelling spy thriller set during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Alia Bhatt plays a young Kashmiri woman who marries into a Pakistani military family to serve as an undercover Indian spy. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the film is not just a tale of espionage, but also an emotional journey of sacrifice, identity, and resilience. Alia’s award-winning performance is supported by a strong cast including Vicky Kaushal, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Rajit Kapoor.

8. Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai

This 2010 crime drama directed by Milan Luthria explores the rise of Mumbai’s underworld. Featuring Ajay Devgn as the principled smuggler Sultan Mirza and Emraan Hashmi as the ambitious gangster Shoaib, the story is said to be loosely inspired by the lives of Haji Mastan and Dawood Ibrahim. With strong performances, gritty storytelling, and memorable dialogues, the film captures the changing dynamics of crime in Mumbai from the 1970s onward.