Discover 10 underrated South Indian thriller movies that deserve your attention. Explore hidden gems filled with suspense, twists, and gripping storytelling.
South Indian cinema is known for its innovative storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and intense performances. While mainstream hits like “Vikram Vedha” and “Drishyam” often dominate discussions, there are many underrated gems that remain largely unnoticed. This article highlights 10 lesser-known South Indian thriller movies that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Kavaludaari (2019) – Kannada
A gripping neo-noir thriller directed by Hemanth Rao, “Kavaludaari” follows a traffic police officer who stumbles upon a decades-old case of skeletal remains. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit and crime that threatens to consume him.
Why Watch? The film masterfully blends suspense with psychological depth, keeping viewers engaged till the last frame.
2. Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru (2016) – Tamil
Karthick Naren’s directorial debut is a tightly woven mystery thriller featuring an intriguing non-linear narrative. The story revolves around a retired cop recounting a complex case that changed his life forever.
Why Watch? The film’s brilliant screenplay and stunning cinematography make it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.
3. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – Malayalam
This psychological crime thriller follows a criminologist who assists the police in tracking down a brutal serial killer targeting law enforcement officers.
Why Watch? “Anjaam Pathiraa” offers chilling suspense, intelligent twists, and a well-developed protagonist played by Kunchacko Boban.
4. Agent Sai Srinivasa Athreya (2019) – Telugu
A detective comedy-thriller that follows the quirky but intelligent private investigator Agent Sai Srinivasa Athreya as he stumbles upon a dark mystery hidden beneath seemingly petty cases.
Why Watch? The film is a refreshing blend of humor and suspense with a solid storyline and engaging characters.
5. U Turn (2016) – Kannada
A supernatural thriller that revolves around a journalist investigating mysterious accidents at a flyover. As she digs deeper, eerie events start unfolding.
Why Watch? The film’s unpredictable twists and eerie atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience.
6. Ratsasan (2018) – Tamil
A psychological thriller about an aspiring filmmaker turned cop who chases a sadistic serial killer targeting schoolgirls.
Why Watch? “Ratsasan” stands out with its intense storytelling, chilling antagonist, and nerve-racking sequences.
7. Mumbai Police (2013) – Malayalam
A complex crime thriller following an amnesiac cop attempting to piece together details of a case he was solving before his accident.
Why Watch? The film’s unique approach to storytelling and shocking revelations make it a gripping watch.
8. Goodachari (2018) – Telugu
A spy thriller featuring a young intelligence officer framed for a crime he didn’t commit, forcing him to go undercover to clear his name.
Why Watch? The movie’s slick execution, high-stakes action, and emotional depth make it a must-watch.
9. Thadam (2019) – Tamil
A murder mystery where identical twins become prime suspects, leading to a gripping investigation full of twists.
Why Watch? “Thadam” keeps the audience guessing till the end with its unpredictable storytelling.
10. Ezra (2017) – Malayalam
A horror-thriller that blends Jewish mythology with supernatural elements, following a couple experiencing eerie incidents after purchasing an antique box.
Why Watch? “Ezra” offers a unique mix of horror and thriller genres, standing out for its fresh concept and atmospheric tension.
South Indian cinema has a treasure trove of underrated thrillers that deliver exceptional storytelling, suspense, and unexpected twists. These films offer a refreshing break from mainstream blockbusters and prove that regional cinema continues to push creative boundaries. So, if you’re a fan of edge-of-the-seat thrillers, add these hidden gems to your watchlist today!
FAQ
1. Where can I watch these South Indian thriller movies?
Many of these films are available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and Aha.
2. Are these movies dubbed in other languages?
Yes, several of these thrillers have been dubbed into Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and other languages or have subtitles available.
3. Which of these movies is best for fans of psychological thrillers?
“Ratsasan” and “Mumbai Police” are excellent choices for psychological thriller fans.
4. Do these movies have strong performances?
Absolutely! Many of these films feature stellar performances by South Indian cinema’s finest actors.
5. Are there any sequels to these movies?
Some of these films have sequels or remakes, like “U Turn,” which was remade in Tamil and Hindi.
Ready to explore these hidden gems? Grab your popcorn and start your South Indian thriller movie marathon today!
