This year saw the release of around 275 Tamil films, with most failing to make a mark at the box-office. While big stars like Vijay, Suriya, Kamal Haasan, and Rajinikanth struggled to deliver significant hits, it was the relatively smaller films that brought glory to the industry. Though Tamil cinema didn’t achieve the massive box-office success of its Telugu counterpart, it produced some of the finest films of the year. Here’s our pick of the best Tamil movies of the year:
Kottukkaali: PS Vinothraj’s second film, starring Soori and Anna Ben, is undoubtedly our top choice. Kottukkaali was a bold attempt, and we’re still in awe of how the filmmaker crafted a compelling movie without any music, relying purely on instinct and the stunning performances of the cast. While it may not have been widely embraced by theater audiences, it deserves every bit of praise. The film was even shortlisted for an Oscar nomination. Kottukkaali, now streaming on Amazon Prime, is a must-watch.
Vaazhai: Mari Selvaraj’s Vaazhai is another standout. Coincidentally, both Kottukkaali and Vaazhai released on the same date. This film was the director’s effort to make his critics – particularly casteists – understand the circumstances that shaped him and his anti-caste narratives. Drawing from a defining moment in his childhood, Mari delivered a poignant film filled with laughter, anger, and pain. Unlike Kottukkaali, Vaazhai was celebrated by audiences. The film is available for viewing on Disney+ Hotstar.
Lubber Pandhu: Directed by debutant Tamizharasan Pachamuthu, Lubber Pandhu — starring Attakathi Dinesh, Harish Kalyan, Sanjana Krishnamoorthy, and Swasika — is undeniably one of the year’s best. Using the backdrop of a cricket match and the rivalry between two ego-driven men, Tamizharasan delivered a heartwarming and thoroughly entertaining film. It marked a great comeback for Dinesh, who was struggling to secure roles. Lubber Pandhu is streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.
Thangalaan: Pa Ranjith’s Thangalaan may not have pleased everyone, but it certainly impressed us. While the film has its flaws, such as shallow writing and rushed editing, it remains one of Ranjith’s boldest attempts. Through the story of exploited Dalits in the Kolar Gold Fields, he explored themes of oppression, rebellion, identity, and history with an Ambedkarite perspective, using elements of magic realism. The performances, particularly by Vikram, Parvathy, Hari Krishnan, and Pasupathy, were impressive. The film is streaming on Netflix.
Lover: Directed by Prabhuram Vyas, the film was honest in its portrayal of a toxic relationship. It tackles Tamil cinema’s celebration of toxic masculinity head on. The story centres around Arun (Manikandan), an aspiring café owner whose alcoholism, controlling behavior, and lack of accountability devastate his relationship with Dhivya (Sri Gouri Priya), a strong, independent woman who chooses to walk away from the abuse. The film is available to watch on Disney+Hotstar.
Maharaja: An intriguing film starring Vijay Sethupathi, Maharaja’s non-linear storytelling is clever and avoids spoon-feeding – a welcome change in Tamil cinema. However, the treatment of sexual violence, the trope of male outrage, and unrealistic depictions of survivor agency are some of its major drawbacks. Politics aside, the fast-paced screenplay, strong performances, and a satisfying climax make this a must-watch film. Streaming on Netflix.