Manjummel Boys is a gripping survival thriller that captivated audiences nationwide. In the wake of its success, Indian cinema is witnessing a surge in the genre. These films explore the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Survival thrillers range from tales of trapped individuals to intense political dramas. These movies delve into the raw and often harrowing experiences of survival.
Manjummel Boys is directed by debutant filmmaker Arun Kumar. The film broke box office records and received critical acclaim for its intense narrative and stellar performances. The thriller follows the heart-wrenching ordeal of a group of friends from a small town. They must band together to rescue one of their own trapped deep within the Guna Caves of Kodaikanal.
Let us look at other popular survival thrillers:
1. Aattam
In Anand Ekarshi’s Aattam, tension simmers within a theatre group after a sexual harassment accusation is leveled against a prominent actor. The narrative unfurls as team dynamics shift amidst suspicions and revelations. The cast breathes life into the characters, including veterans and emerging talents. The film stars Vinay Forrt, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Zarin Shihab, and others.
They follow through the murky waters of morality and justice. The film’s gripping storyline and exploration of power dynamics and personal ethics earned it praise at prestigious film festivals. Much like Manjummel Boys, Aattam has become a thought-provoking addition to the survival thriller genre.
2. Mili
Mathukutty Xavier’s Mili plunges audiences into a chilling scenario. Mili Naudiyal, portrayed by Janhvi Kapoor, fights for survival after being trapped in a storage freezer. Janhvi’s performance captures the desperation and resilience of a young woman facing imminent danger.
The actress is supported by a talented ensemble cast, which includes Sunny Kaushal and Manoj Pahwa. The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as Mili battles against time and the elements. With its gripping narrative and powerful portrayal of human strength, Mili stands as a testament to the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
3. Nayattu
Martin Prakkat’s Nayattu thrusts audiences into the heart of a gripping political thriller. Three police officers find themselves on the run, fighting for survival amidst corruption and deceit. They were led by stellar performances from Kunchako Boban, Joju George, and Nimisha Sajayan.
The film delves into the complexities of power and morality as the protagonists follow dangerous terrain in their quest for justice. Just like Manjummel Boys, Nayattu emerges as a riveting addition to the survival thriller genre, offering audiences a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
4. Trapped
Vikramaditya Motwane’s Trapped traps audiences in a claustrophobic nightmare. Rajkummar Rao’s character, a call center employee, finds himself locked inside his apartment room without food, water, or electricity. The actor delivers a tour de force performance, portraying the desperation and resourcefulness of a man fighting against impossible odds.
Geetanjali Thapa’s portrayal of his girlfriend adds depth to the narrative as the couple grapples with the harsh realities of their situation. With minimalist yet powerful storytelling and gripping suspense, Trapped keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the end.
5. NH 10
Navdeep Singh’s NH10 propels audiences into a high-octane thriller as a married couple’s road trip takes a terrifying turn after encountering a violent gang. Anushka Sharma and Neil Bhoopalam deliver electrifying performances, portraying the couple’s fight for survival against all odds.
With its pulse pounding action sequences and gritty realism, NH10 offers a chilling glimpse into the dark world of rural India. As the couple battles against time and dangerous enemies, the film explores themes of courage, resilience, and the lengths one will go to protect what they hold dear.
