Malayalam cinema has mastered the art of slow-burning thrillers with intricate storytelling and realistic performances. If Rekachitram kept you on the edge of your seat with its gripping narrative and investigative elements, here are six movies that offer a similar mix of suspense, crime, and psychological intrigue.
Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum (2017) – A Crime Thriller Rooted in Realism
A seemingly ordinary bus journey turns into a chaotic police investigation when a newlywed woman’s gold chain is snatched. The suspect, played masterfully by Fahadh Faasil, remains an enigma, keeping both the police and the audience guessing about his true motives. With a script that thrives on realism, Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum offers a gripping portrayal of human nature and morality under pressure.
Director Dileesh Pothan weaves a tense yet understated crime drama that focuses more on human behavior than conventional thriller tropes. If you liked Rekachitram for its unpredictable characters and grounded storytelling, this one is a must-watch.
Where to Watch: Jio Hotstar
Genre: Crime, Drama
Anjaam Pathiraa (2020) – A Chilling Serial Killer Mystery
When police officers begin dying under mysterious circumstances, criminologist Anwar Hussain is pulled into a high-stakes investigation. What starts as a routine crime case soon takes a sinister turn as the killer leaves cryptic messages and brutal crime scenes in his wake. Packed with suspenseful moments and unexpected twists, Anjaam Pathiraa keeps the audience hooked till the very last frame.
This movie shares Rekachitram’s love for detailed police investigations and psychological depth. As Anwar pieces together the puzzle, the film builds an eerie atmosphere that makes it one of the best Malayalam thrillers in recent years.
Where to Watch: Sun NXT
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
C U Soon (2020) – A Tech-Driven Suspense Thriller
Rekachitram showcased the use of modern investigative techniques, and C U Soon takes that concept to another level. This unique thriller unfolds entirely through digital screens—video calls, chat messages, and online surveillance—creating an immersive and fast-paced mystery. The story follows a man searching for his missing girlfriend, only to discover unsettling secrets hidden within her online presence.
Fahadh Faasil, Roshan Mathew, and Darshana Rajendran deliver power-packed performances that keep the tension high throughout the film. If you appreciate fresh storytelling formats and smart investigative narratives, C U Soon is a perfect addition to your watchlist.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Genre: Techno-Thriller, Mystery
Kooman (2022) – A Dark Psychological Thriller
A series of strange deaths unsettle a peaceful village, and the local police officer, played by Asif Ali, takes it upon himself to solve the mystery. However, as his own past comes back to haunt him, the line between right and wrong begins to blur. Kooman is not just a crime thriller—it’s an intense psychological drama that explores the darker corners of the human mind.
Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the mastermind behind Drishyam, this movie keeps you engaged with its intricate storytelling and unexpected twists. If you enjoyed the investigative elements of Rekachitram, this film’s slow-burning tension and gripping climax will leave you thrilled.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery
Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016) – A Slow-Burn Revenge Drama
At first glance, Maheshinte Prathikaaram might not seem like a thriller, but it carries the same slow-burning intensity as Rekachitram. The film follows Mahesh, a small-town photographer, whose life is turned upside down after a public humiliation. What starts as a simple slice-of-life story gradually builds into a satisfying tale of personal justice and transformation.
With breathtaking cinematography and natural performances, this film beautifully captures the emotional weight of revenge and redemption. If you liked Rekachitram for its character-driven storytelling, this film offers a different but equally rewarding experience.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Revenge
Joseph (2018) – A Hard-Hitting Investigative Thriller
A retired policeman gets pulled back into the world of crime-solving when he stumbles upon a suspicious case that turns deeply personal. With his keen observational skills and years of experience, Joseph slowly unravels a shocking conspiracy that no one saw coming. The film’s investigative depth and emotional core make it one of the best thrillers Malayalam cinema has to offer.
Much like Rekachitram, Joseph thrives on realistic police procedures and gripping suspense. It also explores themes of loneliness and justice, making it a thought-provoking crime thriller.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Genre: Crime, Thriller
If Rekachitram left you craving more intense and thought-provoking thrillers, these six films will keep you engaged with their gripping narratives and unforgettable performances. Looking for more recommendations? Check out our Malayalam Movie Guide for the latest streaming updates!
Images Courtesy IMDB
