South Indian cinema refers to the film industry in the four southern states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. South Indian films are known for their distinctive storytelling and cinematography, as well as their widespread popularity within India and among South Asian communities around the world. Here is a list of some of the best South Indian movies of all time:
- Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) – This epic action film, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, was a massive commercial and critical success. It tells the story of a prince who sets out to rescue his love interest and reclaim his rightful throne.
- Godfather (1991) – This classic crime drama, directed by Siddique-Lal, follows the rise of an orphaned young man to the top of the criminal underworld.
- Nayakan (1987) – This Tamil-language film, directed by Mani Ratnam, is based on the life of real-life Mumbai underworld figure Varadarajan Mudaliar. It was named one of TIME magazine’s top 10 films of all time.
- Roja (1992) – This romantic drama, directed by Mani Ratnam, tells the story of a young woman who fights to rescue her kidnapped husband.
- Kabali (2016) – This Tamil-language action film, directed by Pa. Ranjith, tells the story of an aging gangster who fights to protect his community.
- Anbe Sivam (2003) – This comedy-drama, directed by Sundar C., follows the unlikely friendship between two men who travel together across India.
- Sivaji (2007) – This Tamil-language action film, directed by S. Shankar, follows the story of a wealthy man who uses his resources to fight corruption and help those in need.
- Arjun Reddy (2017) – This Telugu-language romantic drama, directed by Sandeep Vanga, tells the story of a young medical student who struggles with anger management issues.
- Vikram Vedha (2017) – This Tamil-language action thriller, directed by Pushkar-Gayathri, follows the game of cat and mouse between a police officer and a ruthless criminal.
- KGF (2018) – This Kannada-language action film, directed by Prashanth Neel, tells the story of a young man who rises to power in the Mumbai underworld.
This is just a small sampling of the many great South Indian movies that have been released over the years.
