6 Thriller Movies Where The Female Characters Aren’t Written ‘Dumb’ And Don’t Need Any ‘Saving’
Books or movies? A question that requires the least amount of thought to answer when it is posed to me. For, it is movies. But then the question arises, which genre? Simple again, thrillers! Detective mysteries! Horror, even. Basically, I enjoy watching movies that make me bite my nails and possibly jump out of bed once or twice. In fact, my weekend plans are to do a double feature of Bhool Bhulaiyya 1 at home, followed by Bhool Bhulaiyya 2 in the theatre! My biggest pet peeve with thrillers is when female characters are shown to be making stupid choices, or when all they do is scream for someone to save them instead of taking charge and saving themselves and others.
So I thought, why not make a list of titles that don’t just have incredible performances and gripping storylines but where the women need not be rescued by men.
And so here’s a list of thrillers where female characters don’t need any saving. They’re kicking ass instead!
Us
Talk about nail-biting thriller movies and not mention Us? Paap hai yeh! I just visualised this movie’s poster as I wrote this and it gave me goosebumps. Directed by John Peele, US is a 2019 mystery-thriller that can scare the hell out of you! The story is about a family’s happy and peaceful vacation which obviously does not stay that way for long. The family is faced with the most unimaginable fears. And Lupita Nyong’o shines in this one. It’s a must-watch!
Where to watch it: Netflix
Gone Girl
Yet another masterpiece directed by David Fincher and released in 2014, Gone Girl is a psychological thriller adapted from Gillian Flynn’s novel by the same name. It stars Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck in the lead roles. The story is about a wife (Rosamund Pike) whose disappearance creates a stir in the media. As the story progresses, it unfolds so many twists that you are left with just one reaction, “What?” But the highlight of the entire film has to be Rosamund Pike’s character and played impeccably by her that sends chills down your spine!
Where to watch it: Netflix
Hush
I will admit, Hush gave me a blood rush! Does that make sense? Released in 2016 and directed by Mike Flanagan (Midnight Mass, The Haunting Of Hill House), this one should definitely be on your must-watch list. The movie stars Kate Siegel who plays the role of a deaf and dumb writer. While working on her book, Kate’s character gets an uninvited visit which turns quite… I guess you need to see the film. Kate’s character has been written beautifully, every woman will feel empowered watching this writer!
Where to watch it: Netflix
Game Over
Okay, this one is a Hindi remake of Hush, starring Taapsee Pannu. Taapsee has delivered an incredible performance in this. Should be watched if you are done watching Hush already.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Bird Box
If you’ve watched Bird Box, then congratulations, I believe you have good taste in movies. If you still haven’t then please do. The 2018 creature thriller is also directed by a woman, Susanne Bier, with the indomitable Sandra Bullock in the lead. The plot revolves around strange creatures that cause you to commit suicide if you look at them. Sandra Bullock’s character is a mother who is determined to save her children from these monsters and undertakes a journey to another part of the country where she can give them a life of sight, blindfolded.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Also Read: What To Watch This Week Of May 16-22: ‘Panchayat S2’, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, ‘Dhaakad’, And More
A Quiet Place 2
Another movie that I might just berate you for not watching because it is so much perfection is John Krasinki’s A Quiet Place. Starring Emily Blunt and Millicent Simmonds, this one is yet another creature feature, with the monsters killing people who make a sound. A Quiet Place is out and out a Blunt and Simmonds fiesta, with both actresses putting up stellar, moving performances, while Krasinski lends ample support from behind the camera, creating an environment that festers thrill. You’ll be at the edge of your seat, watching this mother-daughter duo overcome some insane challenges to find a safe place.
Where to watch it: Prime Video
Do give these thriller movies a watch. The female leads have done an absolutely excellent job at breaking the preconceived notion of women just acting dumb in thriller movies.
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