The year 2024 is proving to be a blockbuster year for Tamil cinema, with a diverse lineup of films, including Lal Salaam, Garudan, Maharaja, Merry Christmas, and more. From intense action dramas to supernatural thrillers, this year’s releases so far have delivered a mix of emotions, gripping narratives, and stellar performances. Here’s a look at some of the best and newest Tamil movies of 2024.
Maharaja
Maharaja marks the 50th film with Vijay Sethupathi as the lead actor. Directed by Nithilan Swaminathan, this gripping tale revolves around a barber, Maharaja, whose life takes a dramatic turn when his home is burglarized. The burglars steal something he cryptically calls Lakshmi, leaving everyone puzzled about whether Lakshmi is a person or a valuable item. The plot thickens as Maharaja (played by Vijay Sethupathi) walks into the Pallikaranai police station in Chennai, claiming three thieves broke into his house and stole his Lakshmi.
The plot takes an emotional turn when it is revealed that Lakshmi is an old iron dustbin with sentimental value, having saved his daughter during a fatal accident that killed his wife. Furthermore, the film features two parallel stories, one of which focuses on Anurag Kashyap’s character. With a stellar supporting cast, including Abhirami and Mamta Mohandas, this Tamil movie is rich in emotion and intrigue.
Captain Miller
Captain Miller, featuring Dhanush, premiered on January 12, 2024, coinciding with Sankranti’s release. Directed by Arun Matheswaran, this Tamil action drama is set in the British Raj era. The story revolves around a former British Army soldier, played by Dhanush, who rebels against the colonizers to protect his home village.
The supporting cast includes Shiva Rajkumar, Aditi Balan, and Priyanka Arul Mohan. Moreover, the Tamil movie has grossed approximately $13 million and is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in multiple languages.
Garudan
Directed by RS Durai Senthilkumar, Garudan features Soori, M. Sasikumar, Unni Mukundan, and Roshini Haripriyan. The film tells the story of Sokkan, an orphan living with sadhus in a temple. He becomes a loyal servant and friend to Karuna, the heir of a once-royal family.
As a politician from Chennai plots to acquire land belonging to the village temple, Sokkan finds himself entangled in a gripping tale of decadence, ego, and betrayal. This Tamil movie’s intense storyline and strong performances make it a notable addition to 2024’s lineup.
Aranmanai 4
Aranmanai 4, directed by Sundar C, is a supernatural thriller set in a large house in the middle of a forest. The film features Tamannaah Bhatia as Selvi, whose husband suddenly tries to kill her and their children.
After surviving the attack, Selvi’s brother, lawyer Saravanan (played by Sundar C), investigates the mysterious events surrounding the house. The ensemble cast further includes Kovai Sarala, Yogi Babu, VTV Ganesh, and Raashi Khanna. Moreover, this Tamil movie features a mix of horror, comedy, and drama.
Lal Salaam
Lal Salaam features Rajinikanth in a special cameo appearance alongside Vishnu Vishal as Thirunavukarasu, aka Thiru. Directed by Aishwarya Rajinikanth, the film is set in the fictitious village of Murarbad, known for its religious harmony.
When Thiru injures Samsudeen, causing a rift between the Hindu and Muslim communities, the village’s peace is shattered. The film explores themes of camaraderie, conflict, and reconciliation.
Merry Christmas
Sriram Raghavan’s directorial Merry Christmas is a thriller featuring brand new pair Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi. The film follows Albert (Sethupathi) and Maria (Kaif) on a fateful Christmas Eve.
It starts as a seemingly romantic story but turns into a twisted tale of love and suspense. After a chance meeting, Albert ends up in Maria’s apartment, only to find himself caught in a crime scene. This Tamil movie’s blend of romance and mystery makes it a standout release.
