10 Hidden Gems of 2025: Underrated Films That Will Leave You Breathless

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2025 was a year of cinematic surprises, with some films flying under the radar despite their impact. From poignant coming-of-age stories to thought-provoking dramas, these 10 underrated films showcase originality and boundary-pushing storytelling. Here's a list of must-watch movies that you might have missed. Naangal: A Haunting Portrayal of Repression Avinash Prakash's Naangal is a searing drama that explores the complex relationship between three siblings and their father. As the father's unrelenting gaze and physical punishment take a toll on the children, the film raises questions about the true cost of discipline and responsibility. With its atmospheric tension and thought-provoking themes, Naangal is a film that will leave you disturbed and reflective. Sabar Bonda: A Tender and Resonant Love Story Rohan Parashuram Kanawade's Sabar Bonda is a beautiful and tender film that goes beyond the confines of a traditional gay romance. Set in a heteronormative socio-cultural space, the film follows two men navigating their love and identity. With stunning performances and a nuanced exploration of queer love, Sabar Bonda is a must-watch for anyone looking for a genuine and heartfelt story. Jugnuma- The Fable: A Cautionary Tale of Ecological Decay Manoj Bajpayee shines in Raam Reddy's Jugnuma- The Fable, a mystical drama set in the Indian Himalayas of the late 1980s. The film is a stunning visual feast, with dreamy and immersive cinematography that draws the viewer into its world. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Jugnuma is a cautionary tale about the devastating consequences of ecological decay and the dangers of inherited privilege. Deep Fridge: A Meditative Exploration of Love and Heartbreak Arjunn Dutta's Deep Fridge is a thought-provoking and meditative film that delves into the complexities of love and heartbreak. Ex-spouses Swarnava and Mili confront their past and grapple with the hurt and frustration that has defined their relationship. With its richly observed characters and nuanced exploration of human emotions, Deep Fridge is a film that will leave you reflecting on the power of love and relationships. Thalavara: A Sensitive Portrayal of Disability and Perseverance Akhis Anilkumar's Thalavara is a heartwarming and sensitively written film about a young man with vitiligo chasing his dreams as an actor. The film never sensationalises the challenges faced by Jyothish, instead choosing to focus on his resilience and determination. With its powerful performances and nuanced exploration of disability, Thalavara is a film that will leave you inspired and hopeful. Sthal: A Powerful Confrontation of Arranged Marriages Jayant Digambar Somalkar's Sthal is a powerful and unsparing film that confronts the harsh realities of arranged marriages in India. The film centres around Savita, a woman who is objectified and compared based on her skin colour, height, and caste identity. With its confident and unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by women in arranged marriages, Sthal is a film that will leave you empathising and reflecting on the importance of equality and respect. Agra: A Bold and Uncomfortable Exploration of Power and Privilege Kanu Behl's Agra is a film that will leave you uncomfortable and questioning the true nature of power and privilege in India. The film follows Guru, a young man struggling with deep-seated sexual repression in a society that suffocates his desires and frustrations. With its bold and unflinching portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, Agra is a film that will leave you disturbed and reflective. Avihitham: A Potent Black Comedy of Patriarchal Society Senna Hegde's Avihitham is a potent and timely black comedy that exposes the hypocrisy and double standards of patriarchal society. The film follows a chain reaction of perceptions and public spectacle as a local man is accused of an illicit affair. With its subtlety and confidence, Avihitham is a film that will leave you questioning the true nature of morality and justice. Stolen: A Gripping Survival Thriller Karan Tejpal's Stolen is a gripping and intense survival thriller that hooks you from the first frame. The film follows two brothers as they become entangled in a desperate search for a kidnapped baby. With its brutal and unforgiving portrayal of the devastating consequences of human actions, Stolen is a film that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Chaar Phool Hai Aur Duniya Hai: A Beautiful Tribute to a Literary Icon Achal Misra's Chaar Phool Hai Aur Duniya Hai is a beautiful and poignant documentary that pays tribute to acclaimed writer Vinod Kumar Shukla. The film is a perceptive and evocative portrait of a life lived in creative pursuit, and it feels akin to spending a day with the writer himself. With its wonderful and moving portrayal of a life dedicated to literature, Chaar Phool Hai Aur Duniya Hai is a film that will leave you inspired and reflective.