As a cinephile who has been captivated by the enchanting world of South Indian cinema for decades, I must say that each of these psychological thrillers offers a unique perspective into the human psyche and societal issues.
Movies from Southern India have made a significant impact in the global cinema landscape, capturing attention not just within India but also internationally. The movie industries of Telugu, Malayalam, and Tamil have experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity among viewers. Lately, there’s been a growing interest in South Indian psychological thrillers, with their intricate plotlines and shocking twists keeping audiences on the edge of their seats, hooked to the screen.
If you enjoy watching psychological thrillers, it’s clear you have exceptional taste when it comes to cinema. Why wait any longer? Dive straight in and discover the top 9 South Indian psychological thriller movies streaming on OTT platforms this weekend!
9 South Indian psychological thriller Movies on OTT
1. Drishyam (2013)
- Language: Malayalam
- Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
- IMDb rating: 8/10
Discussing South Indian psychological thrillers streaming on OTT platforms, Drishyam from 2013 stands out as a must-watch. Starring Mohanlal and written and directed by Jeethu Joseph, this movie centers around a content family of four living harmoniously. However, their idyllic life is disrupted when Georgekutty (portrayed by Mohanlal) and his family unwittingly commit a crime, forcing them to conceal the truth to ensure their safety.
The outstanding acting from Mohanlal, Meena, and Shajohn played a big role in the film becoming an incredible box office hit. After its triumph, Drishyam 2 was released in 2021. Notably, Ajay Devgn spearheaded the Hindi adaptations of both installments, which also proved to be blockbusters. Without a doubt, Drishyam is a compelling South Indian psychological thriller that should not be missed.
2. Memories (2013)
- Language: Malayalam
- Where to Watch: Disney + Hotstar
- IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Coming up next is another gripping psychological thriller from the Malayalam film industry, this time with a South Indian flavor. Titled “Memories,” it features Prithviraj Sukumaran as the main character, who happens to be a police officer named Sam Alex. Struggling with grief, Sam turns to alcohol for solace. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he is summoned to solve a series of mysterious murders, all displaying similar patterns. The movie then follows Sam’s journey as he untangles the enigma surrounding these killings.
Released in 2013 with a theatrical debut, Memories stands out as one of the greatest Malayalam psycho-thriller films ever made. Its compelling narrative, talented cast, and chilling plot have earned it the title of a cult classic among fans to this day.
3. Evaru (2019)
- Language: Telugu
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
- IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Originating from the Spanish film “The Invisible Guest,” the Telugu movie “Evaru” is a gripping South Indian psychological thriller that should be on everyone’s watch list, featuring Adivi Sesh and Regina Cassandra in principal roles. The narrative revolves around a morally compromised police officer, Vikram Vasudev, investigating what initially seems like an uncontested murder case involving a woman who allegedly killed her rapist. With each scene brimming with tension, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat as the mystery unfolds. In search of intense thrillers? “Evaru” is definitely not to be missed!
4. Game Over (2019)
- Language: Tamil and Telugu
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb rating: 6.9/10
Under the guidance of director Ashwin Saravanan, the film titled Game Changer features Taapsee Pannu in the lead role. This movie follows Swapna, a game designer, who has a phobia of darkness due to a traumatic event from her past. Struggling with PTSD, she resides alone with her household help. The narrative unfolds as Swapna confronts a menacing serial killer who invades her home and forces her into a perilous game of survival.
5. Manichithrathazhu (1993)
- Language: Malayalam
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
- IMDb rating: 8.7/10
Another movie starring Mohanlal, titled “Manichithrathazhu,” is another enduring masterpiece in the realm of Malayalam psychological thrillers. Directed by Fazil, this film finds its roots in a real-life tragedy that unfolded within a family in central Travancore-Channar during the 19th century. The movie explores profound themes such as mental health and trauma, making it a must-watch for audiences seeking an immersive experience into these topics. You can catch Manichitrathazhu on Amazon Prime Video.
6. Visaranai (2015)
- Language: Tamil
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb rating: 8.4/10
Experience the gripping tale of four individuals falsely accused and mercilessly interrogated by corrupt police in Vetrimaaran’s film, Visaranai. This psychological drama sheds light on police brutality and misconduct, ultimately resulting in the suffering of innocent souls. Visaranai garnered significant acclaim from both audiences and critics. Don’t miss out on this captivating movie, available now on Netflix.
7. U Turn (2018)
- Language: Tamil and Telugu
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
- IMDb rating: 6.9/10
Pawan Kumar penned and directed the movie “U Turn,” featuring Samantha Ruth Prabhu. This film centers around the mysterious deaths of drivers who violate traffic laws at an overpass. As the story progresses, a journalist and a police officer work together to unravel the enigma surrounding these fatal incidents. Notably, “U Turn” is a reinterpretation of Pawan Kumar’s original Kannada film with the same title. Additionally, a Hindi version of the movie was produced, starring Alaya F in the lead role.
8. Puriyatha Puthir (2017)
- Language: Tamil
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
- IMDb rating: 6.6/10
The movie “Puriyatha Puthir” by Vijay Sethupathi and Gayathrie Shankar revolves around a duo named Kathir and Meera. Their bond is tested when Kathir finds himself receiving secret videos of Meera from an unknown sender threatening to expose them. So, what transpires next? Will they drift apart? Can Kathir track down the blackmailer?
9. Anniyan (2005)
- Language: Tamil
- Where to Watch: Sun NXT
- IMDb rating: 8.3/10
To round things off, let’s talk about Chiyaan Vikram’s 2005 film, Anniyan. This movie significantly reshaped the landscape of the film industry on a grand scale. The story revolves around Ramanujam, who works as a lawyer during the day but transforms into a vigilante at night. Notably, Ramanujam grapples with multiple personality disorder. Anniyan was a massive hit at the box office and garnered praise from every corner of the country.
Why don’t you head over, pick up a steaming hot mug of coffee and your preferred treats, then settle down for a marathon viewing session. By the way, which South Indian psychological thriller movie on streaming platforms do you enjoy most? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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2024-10-22 12:23