OPINION: Are low-budget investigative thrillers the new trend in Tamil cinema with films like Maargan, Eleven and more?

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In 2025, Tamil films like Maargan, DNA, Eleven, and many others are enjoying success at the box office. This raises the question: Could we be observing a fresh direction or pattern emerging in Tamil cinema?

At the start of this year, expensive productions such as Vidaamuyarchi, Retro, and Thug Life failed at the box office. However, it’s not accurate to assume that all films suffer the same fate. In fact, those that focus on content have found success by satisfying their audiences. So, is the issue with content, perhaps?

Considering the specifics, many of the movies turned out to be investigative thrillers, mostly produced with a modest budget. Over time, Tamil cinema has seen numerous trends, and it seems like these investigative thrillers have become quite popular lately.

Are investigative thrillers the new trend in Tamil cinema?

In Tamil cinema, investigative thrillers are often exceptionally well-crafted stories that keep audiences captivated. These films have a knack for keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, and their timeless appeal remains unchanged even after many years.

Instead of whodunits or mystery movies, thrillers offer an immersive viewing experience that leaves a lasting impact on viewers, making them suitable for repeated viewings in cinemas. This repeatability is crucial for small-scale theatres.

By examining historical patterns in Tamil cinema, it’s evident that producers consistently invested in specific genres for prolonged periods. In the late ’90s and early ’00s, there was a surge in devotional films that both established and new directors were involved with.

In the following period, there was an increase in both straight-up horrors and horror-comedies, igniting yet another wave of trends. Currently, it appears that investing in thriller movies could be a safe bet.

Lately, I’ve been captivated by the buzz surrounding Vijay Antony’s latest film, Maargan. Contrary to the romantic comedy Love Marriage that released around the same time, it seems that audiences are flocking more towards this gripping crime thriller.

In his first attempt as a director, Leo John Paul’s Tamil-language movie has garnered both commercial and critical acclaim, being appreciated for its acting and script.

See Maargan trailer here:

In my expert opinion, it’s fascinating to note that the financial investment required for a gripping investigative thriller like Maargan is often estimated to be relatively modest compared to blockbusters featuring big-name stars. Instead, contemporary filmmaking appears to favor casting talented actors who offer great value without breaking the bank.

Since the production expenses are kept low, many thrillers are filmed on-site, reducing the need for extensive visual effects.

In a similar vein, both the films starring Atharvaa Murali and Nimisha Sajayan, titled DNA, as well as the Vijay Antony starrer, have experienced this same trend.

Additionally, the film “Eleven,” featuring Naveen Chandra, gained cult-classic status following its release on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video. Initially met with criticism during its theatrical screenings, the movie has since seen tremendous success in the digital streaming era.

Take a look at Eleven’s trailer:

Likewise, when Ten Hours featuring Sibi Sathyaraj was released, it too experienced a similar impact, further demonstrating that viewers are finding it increasingly enjoyable.

How could filmmakers use this trend effectively?

As a passionate follower of the art of filmmaking, I firmly believe that the rise (or perceived rise) of investigative thrillers presents an exceptional chance for creators like myself. The success of this genre hinges significantly on a writer’s knack for weaving intricate, compelling narratives.

As a die-hard film enthusiast, I’ve come to realize that the power of a compelling screenplay can transcend even the most unexpected cast choices. If an investor backs such a masterpiece, it doesn’t matter who’s starring in it – a hit movie can still be born! In the captivating world of thrillers, it’s the gripping plot and enthralling narrative that take center stage, eclipsing any actor’s presence.

Without relying excessively on well-known brands, this thriving trend demonstrates how the taste and preferences of audiences have grown, allowing them to embrace diverse content.

In a time when global movie access is widespread, there’s been an uptick in standards due to audiences demanding captivating narratives that engage their imagination.

With each new generation favoring superior content, it becomes increasingly challenging for mediocre or poor-quality movies to captivate viewers. Consequently, filmmakers must adapt and step outside their familiar creative realms.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I’m absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news! In a recent update from insider Sreedhar Pillai, it appears that an impressive number of around 20 films in Tamil cinema are currently being produced within a modest budget, all belonging to the same genre. Can’t wait to see what magic these filmmakers will weave on screen!

Now, how long this genre continues and at what point it reaches saturation has to be seen.

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2025-06-30 21:37