May 18, 2026 4:07pm IST
5 Creature-Based South Indian Films You Should Watch if You Loved Allu Arjun’s Look in ‘Raaka’
Fans of fantasy thrillers are anticipating another captivating action-packed spectacle in theaters with the release of Allu Arjun's enigmatic, creature-like look in the upcoming big-budget film, “Raaka.” Such ethereal beings are also expected to appear in a few other highly anticipated forthcoming movies, such as the sequel to the Malayalam film, “Lokah.” Meanwhile, you can check out these South Indian films and web series where supernatural creatures drive the plot.
Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra
Streaming platform: JioHotstar
Language: Malayalam
The fantasy thriller reintroduces several supernatural entities, including Kalliyankattu Neeli, Odiyan and Chathan. The main actors in this all-time highest-grossing Malayalam film, which is directed by Dominic Arun, were Kalyani Priyadarshan, Naslen, Dulquer Salmaan and Tovino Thomas.
Why it worked: This 2025 Malayalam film won plaudits for its exemplary resurrection of a popular folktale in Kerala.
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Jinn - The Pet
Streaming platform: Sun NXT
Language: Tamil
The main plot of this 2025 film is a young man's curiosity with Jinn, which prompts him to trap and foster one of these supernatural creatures. Mugen Rao, Bhavya Trikha and Bala Saravanan star in “Jinn: The Pet”, which is directed by T. R. Bala.
Why it worked: The disarray following the Jinn’s arrival in the protagonist’s life is hilarious to watch.
Kalinga
Streaming platform: Prime Video
Language:Telugu
The protagonist of this 2025 movie must deal with horrific situations in order to safeguard his small village and its people. This thriller, which is helmed by Dhruva Vaayu, features performances by the director, Pragya Nayan, and Aadukalam Naren.
Why it worked: It's riveting to watch as the main character's quest to defend his people reveals a sinister mystery.
Bramayugam
Streaming platform: Sony LIV
Language: Malayalam
This 2024 black-and-white fantasy thriller tells the tale of a folk singer who seeks safety in an enigmatic mansion by incorporating themes of mystery and Malayalam folklore. “Bhoothakaalam”-fame Rahul Sadasivan has helmed this movie, which features Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan and Sidharth Bharathan in significant parts.
Why it worked: The most terrifying aspect of this movie is the emergence of the evil creature known as "Chathan".
Kumari
Streaming platform: Netflix
Language: Malayalam
The protagonist of this 2022 film, which was directed and written by Nirmal Sahadev, is a naive young woman who marries off, far from home, in Kanhirangat. She quickly learns that her in-laws' place is cursed with dark secrets. This film, which features elements of Malayalam folklore surrounding Chathan and Gari Devan, stars Aishwarya Lekshmi, Shine Tom Chacko and Swasika.
Why it worked: Aishwarya Lekshmi’s performance and the haunting climax.
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