Entertainment Desk:

South Indian films draw in audiences with their vivid narratives, cultural vibrancy, and a spellbinding fusion of timeless traditions with modern storytelling. Each release from the Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries promises authenticity and innovation, whether in thrillers, comedies, fantasies, or actions. Fans eagerly await their favorite pan-Indian stars to watch on screen, drawn by their charisma and epic dialogues. As teasers and trailers generate excitement, let’s explore the highly anticipated lineup of South Indian films premiering in August 2024.

Top 12 South Indian Movies Set to Rock This August

VIRAAJI | TELUGU HORROR | AUGUST 02, 2024

Starring Pramodhini and Varun Sandesh, this horror film unfolds an eerie tale set in Visakhapatnam. Furthermore, the ‘Viraaji’ film’s castline includes Kota Jayaram, Kushalini Pulapa, and Raghu Karumanchi.

Adyanth Harsha directed this film. A film producer, stand-up comedian, doctor, and pre-wedding photographer gather for a Sanmanam event hosted by a celebrity astrologer.

DOUBLE ISMART | TELUGU SCI-FI | AUGUST 15, 2024

Helmed by Puri Jagannadh, who co-produced the film with Charmy Kaur, this action film serves as a spiritual sequel to ‘iSmart Shankar’(2019). The story follows an assassin whose brain is implanted with the memories of a deceased police officer.

‘Double iSmart’ stars Sanjay Dutt and Ram Pothineni in the lead roles, supported by Kavya Thapar, Sayaji Shinde, Bani J, Getup Srinu, Ali, Makarand Deshpande, and Uttej.

The movie is set to release on Independence Day in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada languages.

Read more: ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 2, Episode 4 recap: Did we just witness the most epic dragon battle in ‘Game of Thrones’ universe? Is Aegon dead?

SARIPODHAA SANIVAARAM | TELUGU ACTION THRILLER | AUGUST 29, 2024

The title of the vigilante thriller movie, directed and written by Vivek Athreya, translates as ‘Is Saturday not enough?’

The film chronicles a man bestowed with supernatural powers exclusively on Saturdays.

Starring Priyanka Mohan and Nani in pivotal roles, ‘Saripodhaa Sanivaaram’ also features Aditi Balan, Subhalekha Sudhakar, S. J. Suryah, and Sai Kumar.

This film is releasing in Telugu, with dubbed versions in Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, all titled ‘Surya’s Saturday’.

BOAT | TAMIL THRILLER | AUGUST 02, 2024

Directed and written by Chimbudeven, the movie stars Yogi Babu, Gouri Kishan, M.S. Bhaskar, Sha Ra, Kulappulli Leela, and Chinnijayanth.

The narrative centers on a small boat carrying ten individuals escaping bombings, abruptly halting and sinking mid-journey, compelling its passengers to fight for survival.

THANGALAAN | TAMIL HISTORICAL FANTASY | AUGUST 15, 2024

The title of this fantasy action movie translates to ‘The Son of Gold’. This upcoming Tamil movie is directed by Pa. Ranjith, who also contributed to the writing and production.

Set during the British Raj, the movie revolves around Thangalaan, a formidable tribal leader, and his tribe aiding Lord Clement, a British General, in their quest for gold in their village. As they search for the gold, the villagers incur the wrath of Aarathi, a formidable sorceress, prompting Thangalaan to confront her with all his strength.

‘Thangalaan’ stars Vikram in the titular role, supported by Malavika Mohanan, Daniel Caltagirone, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Hari Krishnan Anbudurai, Sampath Ram, Vettai Muthukumar, and Arjun Anbudan.

RAGHU THATHA | TAMIL COMEDY | AUGUST 15, 2024

The film humorously chronicles the journey of Kayalvizhi, a spirited young woman torn between her principles and patriarchal pressures. Besides writing the screenplay, Suman Kumar debuts as a director with this film.

‘Raghu Thatha’ stars Keerthy Suresh, Devadarshini, MS Bhaskar, Ravindra Vijay, Jayakumar, Aadhira Pandilakshmi, Rajesh Balachandira, Anandsami, Ismath Banu, Rajeev Ravindranath, and Janaki.

FOOTAGE | MALAYALAM THRILLER | AUGUST 02, 2024

Helmed by Saiju Sreedharan, who also co-wrote the film with Shabna Muhammed, this thriller movie marks the debut of found footage style, breaking new ground in Malayalam cinema. The plot immerses audiences in the curious journey of a young couple.

Led by Manju Warrier, ‘Footage’ also stars Gayathri Ashok, Seethal Thampi, and Vishak Nair in key roles.

ADIOS AMIGO | MALAYALAM COMEDY DRAMA | AUGUST 15, 2024

Nahas Nazar debuts as a film director by Adios Amigo. This comedy film stars Asif Ali and Suraj Venjaramoodu in the lead roles. Other casts inlude Shine Tom Chacko, Althaf Salim, Ganapathy, Jinu Joseph, Riaa Saira, Salim Hassan, Muthumani, and Anagha in pivotal parts.

Recently unveiled, the new single ‘Manne Nambi’ poignantly contrasts the lives of the protagonists. The song introduces Suraj Venjaramoodu as a humble village local, embodying simplicity and authenticity. In sharp contrast, Asif Ali’s character exudes modernity and style, capturing attention with his distinct ‘Yo yo’ persona. At its core, the song explores the profound theme of trust, underscoring its significance in shaping life’s journey.

PAALUM PAZHAVUM | MALAYALAM COMEDY | AUGUST 23, 2024

Directed by VK Prakash, this uproarious comedy stars Aswin Jose and Meera Jasmine in lead roles. While the storyline remains under wraps, its recent poster forecasts a humorous ride.

The supporting cast includes Shanthi Krishna, Maniyanpillai Raju, Ashokan, Nisha Sarangh, Mithun Ramesh, Shinu Shyamalan, Sumesh Chandran, Rachana Narayanankutty, Adil Ibrahim, Atul Ram Kumar, Vineeth Ramachandran, and Thushara in supporting roles.

BHEEMA | KANNADA ACTION THRILLER | AUGUST 09, 2024

Helmed by Duniya Vijay, who also co-wrote the film with Maasthi Upparahalli, this action-packed film stars Vijay in the gripping titular role. The movie follows the journey of a gangster on a relentless mission to conquer his adversaries, driven by a personal vendetta.

Alongside Vijay, ‘Bheema’ features Achyuth Kumar, Gili Gili Chandru, Cockroach Sudhi, Black Dragon Manju, Rangayana Raghu, and debutants Ashwini in prominent roles.

POWDER | KANNADA DARK COMEDY | AUGUST 15, 2024

The Powder film has been directed by Janardhan Chikkanna. This youthful film’s cast includes Diganth Manchale, Sharmiela Mandre, Dhanya Ramkumar, Rangayana Raghu, Gopal Krishna Deshpande Anirudh Acharya, and Ravishankar Gowda.

‘Powder’ spins a tale of ambitious get-rich-quick schemes that spiral into a hilarious comedy of errors. A gang of thugs frantically hunts for their missing shipment, driven by a mastermind’s determination to assert control and restore order.

GOWRI | KANNADA FAMILY DRAMA | AUGUST 15, 2024

Directed by Aneesh and Indrajit Lankesh, and written by Indrajit, Maasti, and B A Madhu, the movie marks the acting debut of Samarjit Lankesh, son of director Indrajit.

The movie chronicles the journey of a young boy from a modest background, striving daily to achieve his dreams despite life’s hurdles. His life takes a twist after meeting Samantha, sparking a rapid and deep connection between them. Their journey together unfolds as they navigate through various challenges life throws their way.

The family drama features Priyanka Upendra, Rajeev Pillai, Manasi Sudhir, Saanya Iyer, Sampath Maitreya, Chandu Gowda, and Vasundhara Das. Moreover, Saanya Iyer also makes her debut with ‘Gowri’.

BOTTOM LINE

The August 2024 South Indian movie lineup dazzles with genre-defining brilliance, transcending the regional differences of Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema.

‘Saripodhaa Sanivaaram’, ‘Boat’, ‘Footage’, and ‘Bheema’ guarantee a heart-pounding experience, expertly fusing gripping suspense with electrifying excitement. On the lighter side, ‘Raghu Thatha’, ‘Adios Amigo’, ‘Paalum Pazhavum’, and ‘Powder’ bring in a wave of laughter with their comedic charm.

‘Double iSmart’ explores futuristic Sci-fi, ‘Thangalaan’ delves into enchanting fantasy, ‘Viraaji’ sends chills with its horror, while ‘Gowri’ touches hearts with its family drama. Together, they form a diverse cinematic gem, reflecting the dynamic storytelling of pan-Indian films.