Discover 10 underrated South Indian thriller movies that will leave you spellbound. These hidden gems offer gripping narratives, intense performances, and unexpected twists!
South Indian cinema is known for its rich storytelling, innovative direction, and compelling performances. While Bollywood often steals the limelight, the South Indian film industry consistently produces top-notch thrillers that deserve global recognition. This list brings you ten underrated South Indian thriller movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, these films are must-watch for any thriller enthusiast!
1. Evaru (2019) – A Twisty Tale of Deception
A Telugu adaptation of the Spanish film The Invisible Guest, Evaru is a gripping thriller filled with suspense and unexpected turns. Featuring Adivi Sesh and Regina Cassandra, this movie keeps you guessing until the very last moment.
2. Thadam (2019) – A Crime Thriller With A Doppelganger Twist
This Tamil crime thriller, directed by Magizh Thirumeni, presents a mind-boggling case where identical twins are suspected of a murder. With Arun Vijay in a dual role, Thadam delivers a well-crafted plot that will leave you in awe.
3. Ratsasan (2018) – A Spine-Chilling Psychological Thriller
This Tamil psychological thriller follows a struggling filmmaker turned police officer as he hunts down a ruthless serial killer. The film’s eerie atmosphere, stellar performances, and gripping screenplay make Ratsasan a must-watch.
4. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – The Malayalam Crime Thriller You Can’t Miss
A neo-noir investigative thriller, Anjaam Pathiraa revolves around a criminologist assisting the police to solve a series of brutal murders. With Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead, the film offers a well-structured mystery with a satisfying payoff.
5. Kavaludaari (2019) – A Hidden Gem in Kannada Cinema
A classic noir thriller from the Kannada film industry, Kavaludaari follows a traffic police officer who stumbles upon an old case that unveils shocking truths. The film boasts a gripping narrative and strong performances.
6. Dhruvangal Pathinaaru (2016) – A Cleverly Written Thriller
This Tamil indie gem features an intriguing narrative about a retired cop revisiting an old case. With impeccable storytelling and a captivating climax, D16 is one of the best whodunit thrillers in South Indian cinema.
7. Mumbai Police (2013) – A Unique Storytelling Experience
This Malayalam thriller, directed by Rosshan Andrrews, follows a cop suffering from amnesia while investigating his own case. The nonlinear storytelling and an unexpected twist make Mumbai Police an unforgettable watch.
8. Lucia (2013) – A Psychological Puzzle
A cult favorite in Kannada cinema, Lucia is a psychological thriller that blurs the line between dreams and reality. The film, made on a small budget, proves that strong storytelling can make a huge impact.
9. U Turn (2016) – A Supernatural Thriller With A Message
This Kannada thriller, later remade in multiple languages, tells the story of a journalist investigating mysterious deaths on a flyover. With an eerie atmosphere and gripping suspense, U Turn delivers a thrilling ride.
10. Game Over (2019) – A Psychological Thriller With Horror Elements
Featuring Taapsee Pannu, Game Over is a bilingual Tamil-Telugu thriller that intertwines PTSD, home invasion, and supernatural horror. With a unique storyline and intense moments, this film stands out as a fresh take on psychological thrillers.
South Indian cinema has consistently produced high-quality thrillers that rival Hollywood and Bollywood. These ten underrated films showcase the industry’s prowess in crafting intense and thought-provoking narratives. If you’re a fan of thrillers, these movies should definitely be on your watchlist!
FAQ
1. Are these movies available with English subtitles?
Yes, most of these movies are available with English subtitles on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Hotstar.
2. Are these thrillers based on real-life events?
Some movies, like Ratsasan, are inspired by real incidents, while others are entirely fictional.
3. Which of these movies are suitable for family viewing?
Films like Thadam and Kavaludaari are relatively safe for family viewing, while Ratsasan and Game Over contain intense scenes that might not be suitable for children.
4. What makes South Indian thrillers unique compared to Bollywood thrillers?
South Indian thrillers often focus on intricate storytelling, strong character development, and unconventional narratives, making them stand out from Bollywood thrillers that sometimes lean more on commercial elements.
5. Are there remakes of these South Indian thrillers in other languages?
Yes, movies like Evaru, U Turn, and Lucia have been remade in multiple languages due to their unique and compelling stories.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and suspense as you dive into these must-watch South Indian thriller films!
