Tamil movies often follow the stereotype of flying cars, heroes with superhuman strength, and over-the-top song and dance routines. But sometimes, you are hit with films that move you, the kind of films that have human stories, stories of strength, and tales of love, family and justice, music that soothes the soul, and cinematography that blows your mind. And some of these works of art are available to watch online. Here are a few of our favourite Tamil movies that you should catch this weekend.

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1. Soorarai Pottru (2020)

Inspired by the life of G.R. Gopinath, founder of Simplifly Deccan, Soorarai Pottru was one of the best movies of 2020. Starring Suriya and Aparna Balamurali, the movie reinforces the belief that if you work hard enough and put in the effort, no one can stop you from flying high. Maara, a former Indian Air Force serviceman, tries to visit his dying father but is unable to book a flight due to the high cost. His father dies before Maara reaches home and that becomes the turning point in his life. Maara dreams of starting a low-cost carrier that can be used by the middle and lower-middle class. Despite strong opposition from Paresh, the owner of Jaz airlines, Maara strives to achieve his goal. From the story to the performances and the direction, everything about this movie is superbly done. This is one of the must-watch Tamil movies out there.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

2. Asuran (2019)

Starring Dhanush and Manju Warrier, Asuran is based on the novel Vekkai by Poomani. Asuran tells the story of a farmer who goes on the run with his family in order to protect his son who killed an upper-class landlord in a fit of vengeance. The film is raw in its depiction of emotions and is inspired by the Kilvenmani massacre of 1968.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

3. Jai Bhim (2021)

Another Suraiya movie on the list, Jai Bhim was one of the best movies of 2021. The movie is based on a real incident that happened in 1995. It involves a case that was fought by Justice K. Chandru for Sengeni, a woman from the Irular tribe. Sengeni’s husband Rajakannu is arrested by the police but is later missing from custody. Chandru files a habeas corpus to bring the truth to light. The movie showcases the corruption within the police force and how the upper-class dominates and often mistreats the economically weaker section of society. It throws light on the tribal community and how they are often abused as per the whims of the rich. The movie also references the 1976 Rajan case, which was the first habeas corpus suit filed in Kerala.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

4. Iruvar (1997)

Starring Mohanlal, Prakash Raj and Aishwarya Rai in lead roles, Iruvar is set in the backdrop of politics and cinema in Tamil Nadu. The movie also stars Revathi, Gautami, and Tabu. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the movie is inspired by the lives of Jayalalithaa, M. Karunanidhi and M.G. Ramachandran. Mohanlal stars as Anandan, an aspiring actor, while Prakash Raj takes the mantle of Tamizhselvan, a writer-politician. They become friends as young men and rise to success in movies and politics respectively. When both of them become top contenders for a political post, a rift develops between them.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

5. Alaipayuthey (2000)

The Tamil original of the Hindi movie Saathiya, Alaipayuthey stars R. Madhavan and Shalini in lead roles. A Mani Ratnam directorial venture, the movie follows a couple who elope but realise life is not a bed of roses. Alaipayuthey is considered to be one of the best Mani Ratnam movies to date. Apart from strong performances by Madhavan and Shalini, the music is one of the best of the times.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

6. 96 (2018)

Twenty-two years after their graduation, former lovers Ram and Janu come face to face. Ram and Janu fall in love during their school years, but circumstances keep them apart. When they meet again after two decades, they reminisce about the old times and make peace with their separation. 96 is a romance that’s steeped in reality. While books and movies have us talking about happy endings, real life doesn’t work that way. But just because there is no happily-ever-after, it doesn’t mean the love wasn’t true. Vijay Sethupati and Trisha shine as Ram and Janaki respectively. The music too is heartwarming and will have you humming along.

Watch it on Manorama Max.

7. Vishwaroopam (2013)

Fans of Kamal Hassan will have a blast watching Vishwaroopam. There are so many shades to his character in this movie, it turns into a visual delight. Nirupama is in a marriage of convenience with Viz, a Kathak teacher. After a few years of marriage, she wants a divorce as she doesn’t like her husband’s effeminate bearing. But when she hires a private investigator to follow her husband, his secrets come out. A spy action thriller, Vishwaroopam is one of the highlights of Kamal Hassan’s career. The song Unnai Kaanadhu Naan went on to win the Best Choreography at the 60^th National Film Awards.

Watch it on Disney+ Hotstar.

8. Karnan (2021)

Karnan stars Dhanush in the lead role along with Lal and Rajisha Vijayan. The movie is loosely inspired by the 1995 Kodiyankulam caste violence. Set in the backdrop of communal oppression, the movie follows Karnan as he fights for justice and leads his village to freedom. Another strong performance by Dhanush, Karnan became one of the best movies of 2021.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

9. Sarpatta Parambarai (2021)

Sarpatta Parambarai is set in the 1970s with Arya starring as the lead. The movie revolves around a clash between the Idiyappa Parambarai and Sarpatta Parambarai clans in North Chennai. Years after leaving boxing and turning to alcohol, Arya finds an opportunity to redeem his boxing clan from years of defeat. The movie follows Arya as he fights for his and his clan’s lost honour.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

10. Super Deluxe (2019)

Super Deluxe is a 2019 film directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja. It is told in a multilinear format and revolves around four individuals. Four stories are told in the film which are Shilpa’s story, the TV story, Leela’s story, and Vaembu and Mugil’s story, followed by an epilogue. Four people are dealing with unexpected predicaments and their lives intersect with each other in unexpected ways. A film backed by strong performances and a tight storyline, Super Deluxe is one movie you shouldn’t miss.

Watch it on Netflix.

Let us know your favourite Tamil movies to watch in the comments below.

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