Tamil cinema, also known as Kollywood, has produced some of the most iconic and memorable films in Indian cinema. From heart-wrenching dramas to high-octane action thrillers, Tamil films have showcased a wide range of stories, directors, and actors that have gained worldwide recognition. Here’s a list of 10 best Tamil movies that are widely regarded as classics:
Enthiran(2010)
Directed by Shankar, Enthiran(also known as Robot) is a sci-fi action film that stars Rajinikanth as Dr. Vaseegaran, a scientist who creates a humanoid robot, Chitti. However, when Chitti develops emotions, chaos ensues. The film broke new ground in terms of technology and visual effects in Indian cinema and was a massive box-office success. Rajinikanth’s performance and the film’s cutting-edge visuals made it one of the best Tamil films of all time.
Mouna Ragam(1986)
Directed by Mani Ratnam, Mouna Ragam is a poignant love story that deals with themes of loss, healing, and relationships. The film stars Karthik and Revathi in lead roles, where Revathi plays a young woman coping with an arranged marriage, torn between her past and present. The film is considered a classic in Tamil cinema, known for its emotional depth and Mani Ratnam’s exceptional direction.
Vikram Vedha(2017)
Vikram Vedha is a gritty crime thriller directed by Pushkar-Gayathri. It stars R. Madhavan as Vikram, a righteous cop, and Vijay Sethupathi as Vedha, a notorious gangster. The film is inspired by the Indian folklore of Vikram and Betaal, blending mythological references with contemporary storytelling. The sharp screenplay, powerful performances, and moral dilemmas make it one of the finest Tamil films.
Kaaka Muttai(2014)
Kaaka Muttai, directed by M. Manikandan, is a heartwarming drama about two slum-dwelling brothers who dream of eating a pizza after they see an advertisement on TV. The film focuses on their struggles and aspirations, offering a beautiful commentary on poverty, dreams, and childhood. With its simple yet impactful storytelling and natural performances, Kaaka Muttai received critical acclaim and became a sleeper hit.
Aruvi(2016)
Aruvi, directed by Avinash Hariharan, is a unique and thought-provoking film that tells the story of a young woman named Aruvi, played by Aditi Balan, who faces numerous societal challenges. The film explores the human side of a woman often labeled as an outcast, and it beautifully blends elements of humor, drama, and tragedy. Aruvi stands out for its fresh narrative and thought-provoking themes.
Subramaniapuram(2008)
Subramaniapuram, directed by M. Sasikumar, is a brilliant example of Tamil cinema’s ability to produce raw and authentic stories. Set in the 1980s, the film follows the lives of a group of friends caught up in a series of unfortunate events. Known for its gritty portrayal of the underworld, Subramaniapuram is celebrated for its realistic characters, powerful dialogues, and captivating storytelling.
Anbe Sivam(2003)
Anbe Sivam, directed by Sundar C, is a film about the life journey of two very different individuals—one a cynical businessman(played by Kamal Haasan) and the other a compassionate man(played by Kamal Haasan again in a dual role)—who are thrown together by fate. The film explores themes of love, humanity, and the importance of compassion in life. Anbe Sivam is regarded as a gem in Tamil cinema for its philosophical depth, performances, and strong emotional appeal.
Paruthiveeran(2007)
Paruthiveeran, directed by Ameer Sultan, is a rural drama set in the backdrop of a village in Tamil Nadu. The film stars Karthi in the lead role of Paruthiveeran, a rebellious man from a poor family. His love story with Muththazhagu(played by Priyamani) sets the stage for intense conflict and tragedy. The raw performances, gripping narrative, and intense drama make it one of the best Tamil films of the 2000s.
Iruvar(1997)
Iruvar, directed by Mani Ratnam, is a political drama that explores the rise of two powerful men, one an actor and the other a politician, and their turbulent relationship. The film stars Mohanlal and Aishwarya Rai in pivotal roles. With its brilliant screenplay, masterful direction, and stellar performances, Iruvar is often regarded as one of the finest films to have come out of Tamil cinema.