Thani Oruvan is a 2015 Tamil-language action thriller film directed by Mohan Raja. Starring Jayam Ravi, Arvind Swamy, and Nayanthara in key roles, the film gained widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative, intense performances, and social relevance.

The story revolves around Mithran IPS (played by Jayam Ravi), a sincere and determined police officer, and Siddharth Abhimanyu (played by Arvind Swamy), a brilliant and manipulative scientist with nefarious intentions. The film explores the intense cat-and-mouse game between the two, with Mithran aiming to expose Siddharth's criminal activities.

Thani Oruvan is known for its smart screenplay, well-executed plot twists, and strong characterizations. Arvind Swamy's portrayal of the antagonist received widespread acclaim, earning him accolades for his comeback to Tamil cinema.

Released to critical and commercial success, the film was praised for its social commentary on corruption and the pursuit of justice. The tight direction by Mohan Raja, Hip Hop Tamizha's music, and the electrifying chemistry between the lead characters contributed to the film's reputation as one of the best Tamil thrillers in recent years. Thani Oruvan remains a milestone in Tamil cinema for its engaging storyline and impactful performances.

• Release date: August 28, 2015
• Produced by: AGS Entertainment
  
• Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller
  
• Director: Mohan Raja
  
• Stars: Jayam Ravi, Arvind Swami, Nayanthara, Nassar
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/thani-oruvan
  

Ratsasan is a 2018 Indian Tamil-language psychological thriller film directed by Ram Kumar. The film stars Vishnu Vishal and Amala Paul in lead roles and gained widespread acclaim for its gripping storyline, intense performances, and effective suspense.

The narrative follows Arun Kumar, played by Vishnu Vishal, a talented aspiring filmmaker who gets entangled in a series of gruesome murders resembling a pattern from his own unproduced screenplay. As he investigates the killings, he crosses paths with a ruthless and mysterious antagonist, portrayed by Amala Paul.

Ratsasan is known for its spine-chilling atmosphere, well-crafted suspense, and a captivating screenplay that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film delves into the psychological aspects of a serial killer and the toll it takes on those trying to apprehend him.

Released to critical acclaim, Ratsasan received praise for its tight script, Vishnu Vishal's compelling performance, and the director's adept handling of the thriller genre. The film's success solidified its place as one of the standout psychological thrillers in Tamil cinema, earning it a dedicated fan base and accolades for its contribution to the genre.

• Release date: October 5, 2018
• Produced by: Axess Film Factory
  
• Genres: Action, Thriller, Crime, Drama
  
• Director: Ram Kumar
  
• Stars: Vishnu Vishal, Amala Paul, Radha Ravi
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/raatchasan
  

Drishyam is a critically acclaimed Indian Malayalam-language thriller film released in 2013, directed by Jeethu Joseph. Starring Mohanlal in the lead role, the film is celebrated for its gripping narrative, clever screenplay, and outstanding performances.

The story revolves around Georgekutty, played by Mohanlal, a common man who becomes embroiled in a complex web of deception to protect his family. When his daughter accidentally kills a boy who was attempting to blackmail her, Georgekutty, a cable TV operator with a penchant for movies, orchestrates an intricate plan to cover up the crime. The film explores themes of morality, justice, and the lengths a person will go to safeguard their loved ones.

Drishyam received widespread acclaim for its tight and suspenseful storytelling, exceptional performances, and its departure from conventional thriller tropes. Mohanlal's portrayal of Georgekutty garnered him widespread praise, and the film's success led to its adaptation in multiple Indian languages.

Regarded as one of the finest thrillers in Indian cinema, Drishyam continues to be lauded for its thought-provoking plot and meticulous execution, earning it a dedicated fan base and accolades both nationally and internationally.

• Release date: December 19, 2013
• Produced by: Aashirvad Cinemas, B4U Motion Pictures
  
• Genres: Crime, Thriller, Drama
  
• Director: Jeethu Joseph
  
• Stars: Mohanlal, Meena, Asha Sharath
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/drishyam
  

Vikram Vedha is a Tamil-language neo-noir action thriller film released in 2017, directed by Pushkar-Gayathri. Starring R. Madhavan as Vikram and Vijay Sethupathi as Vedha, the film intricately weaves together elements of a moral conflict, crime, and suspense.

The story revolves around Vikram, a determined police officer, and Vedha, a charismatic and elusive gangster. The narrative unfolds as Vikram relentlessly pursues Vedha, leading to a series of cat-and-mouse games. What sets the film apart is its non-linear storytelling, where the lines between good and evil become increasingly blurred.

Vikram Vedha explores the age-old Vikram-Betaal folklore, injecting it with a contemporary and gritty narrative. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its inventive screenplay, stellar performances by Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi, and Sam C. S.'s impactful musical score.

The film's success lies in its ability to keep the audience engaged with its unpredictable plot twists, moral dilemmas, and the brilliant chemistry between the lead actors. Vikram Vedha is often regarded as one of the best Tamil films of its time, contributing significantly to the neo-noir genre in Indian cinema.

• Release date: July 21, 2017
• Produced by: Think Music, Y Not Studios
  
• Genres: Action, Crime, Drama
  
• Directors: Gayatri, Pushkar, Gowtham Selvaraj
  
• Stars: Madhavan, Vijay Sethupathi, Shraddha Srinath, Kathir
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/vikram-vedha
  

Lucia is an innovative Kannada-language psychological thriller film released in 2013, directed by Pawan Kumar. The film gained widespread recognition for its unique narrative structure, blending elements of psychological drama and neo-noir with a touch of fantasy.

The story revolves around Nikki, played by Sathish Ninasam, an insomniac who starts taking a mysterious pill called Lucia to experience lucid dreams. As the line between dreams and reality blurs, Nikki finds himself entangled in a complex web of illusions, leading to a suspenseful and mind-bending narrative.

What sets Lucia apart is its non-linear storytelling, intricate plot, and the use of crowdfunding for its production, which was a novel approach in Indian cinema at the time. The film was well-received for its strong performances, especially by Sathish Ninasam and Sruthi Hariharan, and its refreshing take on psychological thrillers.

Lucia explores themes of dreams, reality, and the human psyche, and its artistic and experimental nature garnered critical acclaim. The film's success contributed to Pawan Kumar's reputation as a filmmaker willing to push creative boundaries in Indian cinema, making Lucia a noteworthy entry in the Kannada film industry.

• Release date: September 6, 2013
• Produced by: Audience films, Creathma Productions, SpicyChakra Productions
  
• Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
  
• Director: Pawan Kumar
  
• Stars: Sathish Neenasam, Sruthi Hariharan, Achyuth Kumar, Sabreen Baker
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/lucia-2013
  

RangiTaranga is a Kannada-language mystery thriller film released in 2015, directed by Anup Bhandari. The film received widespread acclaim for its gripping storyline, atmospheric cinematography, and effective storytelling.

The narrative revolves around a young couple, Gautam and Indu, who visit a remote village in Karnataka to research and write a book. As they delve into the village's mysterious past, strange occurrences and dark secrets begin to unfold. The film seamlessly blends elements of suspense, horror, and drama, creating a compelling and intricate plot.

RangiTaranga stands out for its visually stunning cinematography by Lance Kaplan, capturing the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats and adding an eerie ambiance to the storytelling. The film also received praise for its background score composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, which added to the overall suspense.

Released to critical acclaim, RangiTaranga marked Anup Bhandari's directorial debut and became a major success, earning accolades for its screenplay, performances, and the unexpected twists in the plot. The film's success contributed to the growing popularity of Kannada cinema and solidified its place as one of the noteworthy mysteries in Indian cinema.

• Release date: July 3, 2015
• Produced by: Sri Devi Entertainers
  
• Genres: Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: Anup Bhandari
  
• Stars: Nirup Bhandari, Radhika Narayan, Avantika Shetty, Sai Kumar
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/rangitaranga
  

Kshanam is a critically acclaimed Telugu thriller film released in 2016, directed by Ravikanth Perepu. The film garnered praise for its engaging storyline, suspenseful narrative, and strong performances.

The plot revolves around Rishi, played by Adivi Sesh, who returns from the United States to help his ex-girlfriend, Swetha, portrayed by Adah Sharma, find her missing daughter. As they dig into the mystery, the story takes unexpected turns, unraveling a complex web of secrets and deceit.

Kshanam is known for its tight screenplay, skillful direction, and the intense performances of the cast. Adivi Sesh's portrayal of the protagonist earned him accolades for his nuanced acting. The film effectively combines elements of mystery and thriller, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Kshanam received praise for its unpredictable plot twists and the emotional depth it brings to the thriller genre. The film's success contributed to the rising trend of content-driven cinema in Telugu cinema. With its suspenseful narrative and well-executed twists, Kshanam remains a standout thriller and a noteworthy addition to the landscape of Telugu cinema.

• Release date: February 26, 2016
• Produced by: Matinee Entertainments, PVP Cinema
  
• Genres: Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: Ravikanth Perepu
  
• Stars: Adivi Sesh, Adah Sharma, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Satyadev Kancharana
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/kshanam
  

Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru, a Tamil crime thriller released in 2016 and directed by the debutant Karthick Naren, is a cinematic gem that captivated audiences with its intricacy and storytelling finesse. The film, also known as D-16, centers around retired police officer Deepak, portrayed by Rahman, who finds himself entangled in the shadows of an unsolved case that continues to haunt him.

Karthick Naren's directorial brilliance shines through as he crafts a non-linear narrative, skillfully weaving timelines to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The plot unfolds around a mysterious hit-and-run accident, revealing a chain of crimes that challenges the boundaries of investigation.

Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru is a testament to the evolution of Tamil cinema, with its meticulous attention to detail, atmospheric cinematography by Sujith Sarang, and an evocative musical score by Jakes Bejoy. The film received accolades for its realistic portrayal of crime, departing from conventional tropes, and establishing a new standard in storytelling.

With critical acclaim and a lasting impact, Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru stands as a shining example of the prowess of emerging talents, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Tamil cinema and earning its place among the finest crime thrillers in the industry.

• Release date: December 29, 2016
• Produced by: Knight Nostalgia Filmotainment
  
• Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
  
• Director: Karthick Naren
  
• Stars: Rahman, Prakash Raghavan, Sharathkumar, Santhosh Krishna
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
  
• Watch here: https://tinyurl.com/ycxprwsy
  

Released in 2013, Onaayum Aattukkuttiyum, a Tamil neo-noir thriller, unfolds a riveting tale directed by Mysskin. The film's title, translating to "The Wolf and the Lamb," metaphorically encapsulates the intricate conflict at its core.

The plot introduces audiences to a mysterious, wounded man (played by Mysskin) whose chance encounter with a compassionate doctor (played by Sri) unravels a complex web of morality, justice, and redemption. As the man grapples with a troubled past, a relentless pursuit by the police ensues, leading to a suspenseful and morally charged narrative.

Mysskin's directorial finesse shines through in the film's minimalistic yet impactful approach. The tight screenplay, atmospheric cinematography by Balaji V. Rangha, and the evocative background score by Ilaiyaraaja collectively contribute to the film's intense atmosphere.

Onaayum Aattukkuttiyum received widespread critical acclaim for its departure from conventional Tamil cinema narratives. It stands as a testament to Mysskin's unique storytelling and the film industry's potential for nuanced and thought-provoking neo-noir cinema. With engaging plot twists and well-defined characters, the film has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Tamil thrillers.

• Release date: September 27, 2013
• Produced by: Lone Wolf Productions
  
• Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller
  
• Director: Mysskin
  
• Stars: Mysskin, Sri, Adithya Menon, Bharath
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
  
• Watch here: https://tinyurl.com/3nffb4rk
  

Thadam, a Tamil-language thriller directed by Magizh Thirumeni, emerged as a standout film in 2019, captivating audiences with its clever storytelling and suspenseful narrative. The movie follows a murder investigation where two doppelgangers, both portrayed by Arun Vijay, find themselves entangled as prime suspects. The plot unfolds with intricate twists, creating a web of mystery that keeps viewers intrigued until the very end.

Arun Vijay's stellar performance, portraying distinct characters with finesse, contributes significantly to the film's success. Thadam not only explores the complexities of a criminal investigation but also delves into the psychological nuances of identity and deceit. The screenplay is a testament to the director's skill in crafting a storyline that challenges perceptions and maintains an air of unpredictability.

What sets Thadam apart is its ability to seamlessly blend elements of crime, drama, and suspense. The film engages the audience by constantly shifting perspectives and introducing unexpected turns, making it a compelling cinematic experience. With its well-executed narrative structure and a thematic exploration of identity, Thadam remains a memorable and highly praised thriller in the realm of Tamil cinema.

• Release date: March 1, 2019
• Produced by: RedhanThe Cinema People
  
• Genres: Action, Crime, Drama
  
• Director: Magizh Thirumeni
  
• Stars: Arun Vijay, Tanya Hope, Smruthi Venkat, Fefsi Vijayan
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/thadam
  

Memories, a 2013 Indian Malayalam-language psychological thriller, directed by Jeethu Joseph, stands as a gripping exploration of crime, trauma, and the human psyche. The film revolves around Sam Alex, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran, a police officer grappling with the aftermath of a personal tragedy. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Sam is assigned to investigate a series of murders that seem eerily connected to his own past.

What sets Memories apart is its deft blend of suspense, emotion, and psychological depth. Prithviraj's nuanced performance adds layers to the character, making the audience empathize with his struggles. The film masterfully weaves together the threads of mystery and psychological turmoil, keeping viewers hooked until the final revelation.

Jeethu Joseph's directorial finesse is evident in the way he builds tension and maintains a sense of unpredictability throughout the narrative. The movie's atmospheric cinematography and haunting score contribute to the overall immersive experience.

Memories received acclaim for its fresh approach to the thriller genre in Indian cinema. It not only entertains with its suspenseful storytelling but also leaves a lasting impact with its exploration of trauma and resilience, making it a noteworthy entry in the realm of Malayalam cinema.

• Release date: August 9, 2013
• Produced by: Anantha Vision
  
• Genres: Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: Jeethu Joseph
  
• Stars: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Sreejith Ravi, Vijayaraghavan, Suresh Krishna
  
• IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/memories
  

Aa Karaala Ratri, a Kannada-language thriller directed by Dayal Padmanabhan, is a cinematic gem that intricately weaves suspense and psychological drama. Released in 2018, the film is an adaptation of the acclaimed play "Shantata! Court Chalu Aahe" by Vijay Tendulkar.

Set against the backdrop of a remote village, the story unfolds when a stranger arrives seeking shelter for the night. As the night progresses, the characters' hidden motives and dark secrets come to light, leading to a tense and gripping climax.

The film is lauded for its tight screenplay, atmospheric setting, and powerful performances, particularly by its ensemble cast featuring Karthik Jayaram and Anupama Gowda. Aa Karaala Ratri explores themes of societal norms, power dynamics, and morality, creating a thought-provoking narrative that lingers in the minds of the audience.

With its intriguing plot twists and intense character dynamics, the movie is a testament to the potential of regional cinema to deliver compelling and impactful storytelling.

• Release date: July 13, 2018
• Produced by: D Pictures
  
• Genres: Thriller
  
• Director: Dayal Padmanabhan
  
• Stars: Ashitha, Anupama Gowda, Swathi Gowda, Karthik Jayaram
  
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/aa-karaala-ratri
  

Anjaam Pathiraa, a 2020 Malayalam psychological thriller directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, stands out as a riveting exploration of crime and criminal psychology. The film follows Anwar Hussain (played by Kunchacko Boban), a criminologist, who assists the police in solving a series of gruesome murders committed by a mysterious serial killer. Set against the backdrop of a gripping cat-and-mouse game, the narrative unfolds with a blend of suspense, intelligence, and unexpected twists.

What sets Anjaam Pathiraa apart is its meticulous storytelling, backed by strong performances from the cast. Kunchacko Boban delivers a compelling portrayal of a criminologist caught in a complex web of intrigue. The film not only keeps the audience on the edge of their seats but also delves into the psyche of the characters involved.

The movie received widespread acclaim for its well-crafted screenplay, atmospheric cinematography, and the director's ability to maintain tension throughout. Anjaam Pathiraa has left an indelible mark on Malayalam cinema, establishing itself as a standout thriller in the genre.

• Release date: January 10, 2020
• Produced by: Ashiq Usman Productions, Manual Movie Makers, Goldmines Telefilms
  
• Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: Midhun Manuel Thomas
  
• Stars: Kunchacko Boban, Jinu Joseph, Unnimaya Prasad, Sreenath Bhasi
  
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/anjaam-pathiraa
  

Mumbai Police, a 2013 Malayalam crime thriller directed by Rosshan Andrrews, stands out as a gripping narrative that defies conventional storytelling norms. The film follows the investigation led by ACP Antony Moses (played by Prithviraj Sukumaran) into the murder of his close friend ACP Aaryan John Jacob (played by Jayasurya). What sets this crime thriller apart is its unconventional plot structure and the unexpected twists that redefine the genre.

The storyline takes a daring turn when Antony realizes that he himself is suffering from retrograde amnesia, leading to a complex web of suspense and self-discovery. Mumbai Police is celebrated for its intricately woven narrative, keeping the audience guessing until the climactic revelations.

Prithviraj Sukumaran's stellar performance adds depth to the character, portraying the complexities of a man trying to solve a murder mystery while grappling with his own memory loss. The film is lauded for its bold storytelling, intense character development, and a climax that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer, establishing Mumbai Police as a standout in Malayalam cinema.

• Release date: May 3, 2013
• Produced by: Nisad Haneefa Productions
  
• Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: Rosshan Andrrews
• Stars: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Jayasurya, Rahman, Riyaz Khan
  
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/mumbai-police
  

Thegidi is a captivating Indian Tamil-language thriller that left audiences on the edge of their seats when it hit the screens in 2014. Directed by P. Ramesh, the film seamlessly blends elements of suspense, mystery, and romance. The narrative revolves around the protagonist, played by Ashok Selvan, who is employed as a private detective. His assignment involves investigating potential candidates for a prestigious job, leading him into a complex web of deceit and intrigue.

The movie stands out for its gripping screenplay, clever plot twists, and the meticulous attention to detail in unraveling the mystery. Janani Iyer delivers a compelling performance as the female lead, adding depth to the storyline. The director skillfully weaves together the various elements of the plot, keeping the audience guessing until the very end.

Thegidi is also praised for its technical brilliance, with sharp cinematography and a riveting musical score that complements the tension-filled atmosphere. The film received positive reviews for its fresh take on the thriller genre and the commendable performances of its cast. As the first anniversary of its release arrives, Thegidi continues to be celebrated as a standout contribution to the rich tapestry of Indian cinema.

• Release date: February 28, 2014
• Produced by: Thirukumaran Entertainment, Vel Media
  
• Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
  
• Director: P. Ramesh
  
• Stars: Ashok Selvan, Janani Iyer, V. Jayaprakash
  
• IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
  
• Watch here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/thegidi