South Indian cinema is set for a bustling week, with no fewer than eleven new films slated for theatrical release. Audiences can look forward to a diverse slate of movies, from high-octane action thrillers featuring major stars like Nani and Keerthy Suresh, to poignant dramas and intriguing comedies, all hitting the big screen on September 24th and 25th, 2026.
Big-Budget Action and Thrillers
Leading the pack is The Paradise, a Telugu action thriller starring Nani, Mohan Babu, Raghav Juyal, and Kayadu Lohar, with a special appearance by Keerthy Suresh. Directed by Srikanth Odela and releasing on September 24th, this film is set in 1980s Secunderabad. It delves into the struggle of the "crows," a marginalized community, as Jadal Zamana rises to challenge oppressive forces, with a powerful mother-son narrative at its core.
Also in the thriller genre is the Malayalam psychological suspense film Aaram, directed by Rajeesh Parameswaran and releasing on September 25th. Featuring Saiju Kurup and Anju Kurian, the story follows an upright officer grappling with guilt and moral dilemmas as his integrity is tested by institutional pressures. On the same day, Kannada audiences can catch Spark, a drama thriller from director Mahantesh Handral, starring Niranjan Sudhindra and Bhavana. It centers on an ambitious investigative journalist who uncovers a vast financial scam, leading him into a dangerous confrontation with a powerful official and a hidden conspiracy.
Dramas and Comedies Across Languages
The week also brings a variety of dramas and comedies. From Tamil cinema, Hiphop Tamizha Aadhi directs and stars in Meesaya Murukku 2, a coming-of-age musical drama releasing September 25th. This spiritual sequel to the 2017 hit explores three generations of musicians, from 1980s Madras to the present, showcasing the journey of independent artists striving for recognition and blending traditional gaana music with modern ambitions. Keerthy Suresh also features prominently in Dorothy, a Tamil romantic drama directed by Karthik Subbaraj, also out on September 25th. Set in early 1990s rural Tamil Nadu, the film explores the lives of childhood friends Karthi and Subbu, whose bond is tested when Dorothy enters the family and challenges rigid community norms with her compassionate nature. The film is also anticipated to explore themes related to the LGBTQ+ community, though this remains unconfirmed.
In Malayalam, Dhoomakethu, a fantasy comedy directed by Sudhi Maddison and starring Sajin Gopu and Nikhila Vimal, premieres on September 25th. It follows a newlywed couple trapped in a mysterious time loop, forced to relive a terrifying home invasion until they can break the cycle. For Telugu audiences, Kalyanam Kamaneeyam Jeevitham, a romantic comedy drama directed by Ravi Lokireddy, arrives on September 24th. Starring Khan Durrani and Sahiti Avancha, the film sees a Gen Z teenager discover a surprising connection between her own love life and a mysterious tale of a disrupted marriage.
Horror, Action, and Mystery
Horror enthusiasts can look forward to Amanushikam, a Malayalam horror thriller releasing September 25th. Directed by Nitheesh K. Nair, the film depicts a village thrown into chaos after a sacred nail binding a yakshi named Cheeru is removed, leading an atheist to confront terrifying truths. Tamil cinema also offers the action drama Lenin Pandiyan, directed by P. Balachandran and starring Gangai Amaran, on September 25th. This film portrays a rural farming village battling an illegal sand-mining operation, uniting a humble farmer and an idealistic officer to protect their land.
Rounding out the releases are Anbil Avan, a Tamil romantic action drama from director Karthikeyan Ramakrishnan, starring Ashok Selvan, on September 25th. It follows a newly married couple whose peaceful life is threatened by a home invasion that tests their love. Finally, the Telugu comedy thriller Anumana Pakshi, directed by Vimal Krishna and starring Rag Mayur, hits theaters on September 25th. It chronicles the journey of Sunny, an eccentric overthinker whose suspicious nature leads him to Kashmir, love, and an unexpected mystery.
A Week of Diverse Offerings
The majority of these films are set for release on September 25th, with two titles launching a day earlier on September 24th. This concentrated release schedule highlights the vibrant and prolific nature of South Indian cinema, offering audiences a wide array of choices across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. From suspenseful thrillers to heartfelt dramas and musical journeys, this week promises something for every cinematic taste.
