South Indian cinema has become a powerhouse in Indian entertainment, offering a mix of thrilling action, heartfelt dramas, and groundbreaking visual effects. The recent wave of South Indian movies on OTT platforms has garnered significant attention, making them must-watch selections. Here are seven top South Indian movies currently streaming that you should add to your weekend watchlist.
1. Aavesham (Amazon Prime)
Aavesham, featuring Fahadh Faasil, is a thrilling tale of revenge. The movie follows three college students who become targets of ragging and decide to strike back. They seek help from a local gangster, Ranga, whose intentions remain unclear. The film’s suspenseful narrative keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, making Aavesham a gripping watch.
2. Kalki 2898 AD (Amazon Prime)
Kalki 2898 AD is an epic sci-fi film that has set new benchmarks at the box office. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the movie features an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The story is set in the aftermath of the Kurukshetra War, marking the beginning of the Kali Yuga in 3102 BC. This visually stunning film is available on Amazon Prime in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. With special appearances from stars like Mrunal Thakur and Vijay Deverakonda, Kalki 2898 AD promises an unforgettable cinematic experience.
3. Maharaja (Netflix)
Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi, is an intense action thriller available on Netflix. Directed by Nithilan Swaminathan, the film revolves around a barber seeking vengeance after a robbery at his home. The plot thickens as the police struggle to understand whether Lakshmi, the missing item, is a person, an object, or something else entirely. With a gripping storyline and a strong social message, Maharaja showcases Vijay Sethupathi’s versatility as an actor and is a must-watch.
4. Manjummel Boys (Hotstar)
Manjummel Boys is a survival thriller directed by Chidambaram, based on a true story from 2006. The film follows a group of 11 friends on a trip to Kodaikanal, where their adventure takes a dark turn at the infamous Guna Caves. The plot revolves around their attempts to rescue a friend who falls into a dangerous gorge. With a cast led by Balu Varghese and Sreenath Bhasi, this film has received critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and powerful performances.
5. Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life (Netflix)
Based on Benyamin’s 2008 novel, Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life tells the harrowing story of a laborer from Kerala, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran, who is trapped in slavery in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. The film, known for Prithviraj’s remarkable physical transformation, explores themes of survival and human endurance. The compelling narrative and powerful performances make this film a standout in recent South Indian cinema.
6. Indian 2 (Netflix)
The highly anticipated sequel Indian 2, starring Kamal Haasan, continues the legacy of the 1996 cult classic. Directed by S. Shankar, the film addresses corruption in modern-day India. Kamal Haasan reprises his role as the vigilante Senapathy, who embarks on a mission to cleanse society of its evils. With an impressive supporting cast, including Siddharth and Rakul Preet Singh, Indian 2 is a compelling watch that blends action with a strong social commentary.
7. Mandakini (Manorama Max)
Mandakini is a heartwarming comedy that explores the complexities of relationships. Starring Althaf Salim and Anarkali Marikar, the film centers around a bride who, on her wedding night, reflects on her past relationships with the help of her female in-laws. This light-hearted film, released on Manorama Max, offers a refreshing take on love and marriage.
