By Ayush Srivastava | Updated: May 22, 2026 1:04 PM IST
If you’re still thinking about Mohanlal’s and Jeethu Joseph’s latest release, Drishyam 3 and that slow-burning tension it brings, there’s a good chance you’re in the mood for more films that play with smart storytelling, hidden truths and unpredictable twists. South Indian cinema has quietly built some of the strongest crime thrillers in recent years.
These films don’t rely on big spectacle alone. Instead, they focus on layered characters, clever writing and investigations that keep changing direction right till the end. From serial killer hunts to moral mind games and deep conspiracies, here are some gripping titles you can stream on OTT platforms right now.
A gripping psychological thriller starring Vishnu Vishal, Amala Paul and Saravanan follows a young police officer who gets pulled into a disturbing series of schoolgirl murders. The investigation slowly turns into a psychological game where a highly intelligent killer stays ahead of every move.
Featuring R Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi, this film explores the clash between a strict cop and a mysterious gangster. Each encounter between them unfolds like a story that challenges moral beliefs, making justice feel less absolute and more personal.
Starring Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan and Esther Anil this sequel continues the story of a family trying to protect a long buried secret. When a new investigation begins the past slowly resurfaces forcing them into another battle of intelligence and survival.
With Rahman, Prakash Raghavan and Anjana Jayaprakash, the story follows a retired officer who revisits a haunting murder case. As he narrates the events, different versions of truth appear, revealing how perspective can completely change reality.
Starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Miya George and Meghana Raj the film follows an alcoholic officer forced back into duty to solve ritualistic murders. The deeper he investigates the more the case connects with his own painful past.
Featuring Adivi Sesh, Regina Cassandra and Naveen Chandra, this thriller revolves around a murder case filled with conflicting stories. Every layer adds more doubt, turning the investigation into a complex web of deception.
With Adivi Sesh, Sobhita Dhulipala and Jagapathi Babu the film follows a young intelligence recruit who is framed for a major crime. Forced to escape, he uncovers a deeper conspiracy hidden within the system.
Starring Kunchacko Boban, Sharaf U Dheen and Unnimaya Prasad, this thriller follows a criminologist assisting police in tracking a serial killer targeting officers. The case grows darker as psychological patterns begin to emerge.