Top 10 Best Thriller Movies in Kollywood

Kollywood, the Tamil film industry, has produced some exceptional movies that have left audiences on the edge of their seats. Thriller movies, particularly, can captivate viewers with their suspenseful narratives, intricate plot twists, and intense performances.

• “Ratsasan” (2018)

Directed by Ram Kumar: “Ratsasan” is a gripping psychological thriller that revolves around a rookie filmmaker who becomes entangled in a series of murders. The film masterfully builds tension and offers unexpected twists, keeping viewers guessing until the end. With standout performances by Vishnu Vishal and Amala Paul, “Ratsasan” is one of the most riveting thrillers in recent times.

• “Vikram Vedha” (2017)

Directed by Pushkar-Gayathri: “Vikram Vedha” is an intelligently crafted crime thriller that follows the lives of a righteous police officer and a notorious gangster. The film weaves together suspense, action, and moral dilemmas, creating a captivating cat-and-mouse game. Stellar performances by R. Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi make this film a must-watch.

• “Andhadhun” (2018)

Directed by Sriram Raghavan: While “Andhadhun” is a Hindi film, its Tamil dubbed version had a significant impact on the Tamil audience. This dark comedy thriller showcases the story of a visually impaired pianist who unwittingly gets involved in a murder mystery. With its clever writing, brilliant Ayushmann Khurrana and Tabu performances, and unexpected plot twists, “Andhadhun” keeps viewers guessing until the final frame.

• “Kaithi” (2019)

It is an action thriller film directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film follows a recently released prisoner who races against time to drive poisoned cops to a hospital in exchange for meeting his daughter while evading criminals. The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences, grossing ₹105 crore and winning several awards. The story is followed by Vikram (2022), also directed by Lokesh, with both films forming part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU) and a sequel titled Kaithi 2. The film follows Inspector Bejoy and his team as they catch a smuggling van carrying 900 tons of cocaine. Anbu’s brother, Anbu, plans to capture and kill police officers involved in the bust and retrieve the smuggled drugs.

• “Aruvi” (2016)

Directed by Arun Prabhu Purushothaman: “Aruvi” is a genre-defying thriller that delves into the life of a young woman who takes drastic measures to expose societal hypocrisy. The film skillfully blends suspense, drama, and social commentary elements, delivering a thought-provoking narrative. Debutante Aditi Balan’s powerful portrayal of the titular character adds depth and emotional resonance to the film.

• “Pisasu” (2014)

Directed by Mysskin: “Pisasu” is a supernatural thriller that revolves around a violinist who finds solace in the company of a ghost. This eerie and atmospheric film combines elements of horror and suspense, resulting in an engaging cinematic experience. Mysskin’s direction and exceptional performances by Naga and Prayaga Martin make “Pisasu” a standout thriller.

• “Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru” (2016)

Directed by Karthick Naren: “Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru” is a captivating crime thriller that unfolds through the eyes of a retired police officer. The film skillfully interweaves multiple timelines and perspectives, keeping the audience engrossed in its intricate plot. Karthick Naren’s directorial debut showcases his command over storytelling, making this film a compelling watch.

• “Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru” (2017)

Directed by H. Vinoth: Based on actual events, “Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru” follows a dedicated police officer’s relentless pursuit of a ruthless gang operating across different states. This action-packed thriller offers a realistic portrayal of crime investigation and showcases Karthi’s remarkable performance in the lead role. The film’s intense sequences and well-crafted screenplay make it a must-watch.

• “Vada Chennai” (2018)

Directed by Vetrimaaran: While primarily a gangster drama, “Vada Chennai” incorporates several thriller elements, making it a compelling addition to this list. Set in the backdrop of North Chennai, the film depicts a power struggle between rival gangs and delves into the lives of complex characters. Dhanush’s remarkable performance and Vetrimaaran’s gritty storytelling elevate this film to new heights.

• “Super Deluxe” (2019)

Directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja: “Super Deluxe” is a neo-noir thriller that intertwines multiple narratives, exploring the lives of diverse characters over 24 hours. This unconventional film pushes the boundaries of storytelling and delves into taboo subjects with its dark and gripping narrative. The stellar ensemble cast, including Vijay Sethupathi, Fahadh Faasil, Samantha Akkineni, and Ramya Krishnan, delivers exceptional performances, making “Super Deluxe” a true cinematic gem.