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Netflix India may have a limited collection of regional content, but recent OTT releases and their reception indicate exciting times for both filmmakers and movie enthusiasts. These times encourage experimentation and the embrace of all types of cinema. While Malayalam cinema thrived with direct OTT releases during the Covid-19 pandemic, the overall content of Tamil direct OTT releases fell short of expectations.
Even projects featuring big stars like Vijay in “Beast,” Suriya in “Etharkum Thunindhavan,” and Sivakarthikeyan in “Don” were disappointing. However, Netflix has acquired some exceptional independent Tamil films that are genuinely worth your time. Now, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 best Tamil movies currently available for streaming on Netflix.
1. Kuthiraivaal (2022)
Produced by Pa. Ranjith and directed by Jason & Shyam Sunder, “Kuthiraivaal” (Horse Tail) stands out as a unique and unconventional masterpiece in Tamil cinema. The movie revolves around Saravanan (Kalaiarasan), a lonely and depressed bank employee who wakes up one day to discover a horse tail growing on his back. Perplexed, he embarks on a journey to unravel the mystery behind this bizarre phenomenon.
2. Kadaseela Biryani (2021)
“Kadaseela Biriyani,” directed by Nishanth Kalidindi, offers delightful humor amidst dark situations. The story revolves around three brothers born to a bandit-like mother and a peacenik father. When their father is murdered by a powerful businessman, the sons seek revenge.
3. Mandela (2021)
Marking Madonne Ashwin’s directorial debut, “Mandela” tells the tale of an insignificant barber who becomes the deciding vote in a local body election. Yogi Babu’s outstanding performance adds depth to the movie, showcasing his talent beyond his usual comedic roles. It’s refreshing to see him in a well-written role, breaking free from stereotypes and body-shaming.
4. Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal (2020)
Director Desingh Periyasamy’s “Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal” defies the ordinary boy-meets-girl romance genre. Inspired by a song in Mani Ratnam’s “Thiruda Thiruda,” this movie revolves around two unconventional young criminals who find themselves caught in a dangerous plot.
5. Andhagaaram (2020)
Vignarajan’s directorial debut, “Andhagaaram,” is a suspenseful arbitrary thriller elevated by the exceptional performances of Vinod Kishan and Arjun Das. The movie follows three individuals from different walks of life, interconnected by an intriguing thread.
6. K.D. (2019)
Directed by Madhumitha, “K.D.” follows the journey of an 80-year-old man named K.D. (Mu Ramaswamy) and an orphaned 8-year-old boy named Kutty. As K.D. tries to escape his family’s murderous intentions, a heartwarming and humorous story unfolds. This gentle tale offers valuable life lessons without being overtly didactic.
7. Sillu Karuppatti (2019)
Anthology films that delve into the complexities of love and relationships rarely succeed. However, Halitha Shameem’s “Sillu Karruppatti” breaks new ground and sets a new standard for Tamil and Indian cinema. The four stories presented in this film explore conflict-ridden yet hope-filled love narratives.
8. Bahubali (2015-17)
The two-part epic saga “Bahubali” takes audiences on a breathtaking journey to a world where anything is possible. With awe-inspiring visuals, a mythical kingdom, magnificent waterfalls, and surprising war sequences, this movie showcases the incredible prowess and skill of its creators.
9. Merku Thodarchi Malai (Western Ghats) (2018)
Lenin Bharathi’s stirring docu-drama, “Merku Thodarchi Malai,” is a significant addition to the new wave of Tamil cinema that delves into cultural, economic, and political realities. Unlike many Tamil social dramas, this film focuses less on contrived plot mechanics and instead serves as an anthropological record, documenting the rituals, livelihoods, and dreams of landless laborers.
10. Sila Samayangalil (Sometimes) (2018)
Priyadarshan’s “Sila Samayangalil,” available on Netflix, captivates audiences with its cheerful characters and astute observations of the human condition. The natural storyline follows seven frustrated strangers awaiting the results of an HIV test.
These ten Tamil movies on Netflix offer a diverse range of storytelling, genre-bending narratives, and exceptional performances. Enjoy an incredible cinematic journey with Ratingperson!
