Exploring Tamil and Telugu Cinema Post 2013: A North Indian's Perspective

Indian cinema offers a rich tapestry of stories across various languages, each bringing its unique strengths and themes. If you're a North Indian looking to dive into Tamil and Telugu cinema, this article will guide you through some notable films from 2013 to 2016. These movies showcase a mix of genres and themes, providing a good taste of Tamil and Telugu cinema during that period.

2013: A Diverse range of Features

2013

Naan Sigappu Manithan (Tamil)

A drama starring Vishal, this film focuses on a man with narcolepsy and his fight against injustice. Released in 2013, it offered a refreshing look into the human psyche and the struggles of living with a neurological disorder.

2014: Commercial Entertainment with a Twist

2014

Aagadu (Telugu)

Featuring Mahesh Babu as a cop, this film combined humor and action. Known for its engaging storyline and charismatic lead, Aagadu became a commercial hit, setting the stage for more diverse storytelling in Telugu cinema.

Lingaa (Tamil)

This film, starring the mighty Rajinikanth, blended action with a strong social message about water conservation. It marked a significant milestone in Tamil cinema, offering a powerful message alongside thrilling action sequences.

2015: Historical and Sci-Fi Thrillers

2015

Baahubali: The Beginning (Telugu)

S.S. Rajamouli's historical epic brought grandeur and visuals to the screen, making it a blockbuster hit. Its storytelling and special effects were praised by critics and audiences alike, setting a new benchmark for Telugu cinema.

Iru Mugan (Tamil)

Starring Vikram, this sci-fi thriller was unique for its dual roles and gripping narrative. Despite its complex storyline, the film received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and compelling plot.

2016: Diverse Genres and Themes

2016

Janatha Garage (Telugu)

Starring Jr. NTR and Mohanlal, this film blended action and family drama with an environmental focus. It offered a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Indian society and the role of individual actions in creating change.

Remo (Tamil)

This romantic comedy, starring Sivakarthikeyan, followed his journey as he disguised himself as a woman to win over his love interest. Remo showcased the versatility of Tamil actors and offered a thrilling blend of romance and action.

Personal Favorites

As a North Indian, I personally enjoyed the following Tamil and Telugu films:

Telugu Films

OOpri (2016)

A heartening story about a quadriplegic billionaire who hires a young man as his caregiver. This film offered a touching narrative and a unique perspective on the struggles of living with disability.

24 (2016)

Featuring a time machine and a complex storyline between an evil twin and his son, this film was a thrilling ride with elements of suspense and science fiction.

Tamil Films

Kakka Muttai (2015)

Based on the heartwarming tale of two kids and their relationship with pizza, this film offered a lighthearted dose of joy and humor.

Swamy Ra Ra (2013)

This small-time crook's journey to retrieve a priceless article and win his love interest's heart was both entertaining and engaging, showcasing the romance and adventure in Tamil cinema.

Kshanam (2016)

Compared to Kahani, this thriller kept viewers on the edge of their seats with its gripping narrative and non-stop action. It's a must-watch for fans of intense storytelling.

Visaranai (2015)

Though difficult to watch, this film was one of the best in recent times, offering a raw and powerful portrayal of tragedy and human resilience.

Kanche (2015)

Set during World War II, this love story offered a unique and romantic backdrop, blending history and romance with engaging storytelling.

Pellichoopulu (2016)

The story of a mismatched rooms on account of an address mistake, this film offered a unique and relatable premise that kept audiences hooked.

Thani Oruvan (2015)

Arwind Swamy made a dashing comeback as a villain in this thrilling film. It was a treat to watch the original before the Hindi remake came out.

Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru (2016)

A young director's edge of the seat murder mystery, this film was a breath of fresh air in Tamil cinema, offering a gripping plot and exceptional direction.

Other Recommendations

While the Kannada and Malayalam film industries have their own unique offerings, some Kannada films like Rangitaranga Lucia Ulidavarau Kandante and Maheshinte Pratikaaram are highly recommended. Similarly, Malayalam films like Pu. Sudi Vathmeekam and Premam are worth checking out.

Indian cinema is a vast and diverse landscape, and exploring different languages can provide a unique and enriching experience. The films mentioned in this article offer a great starting point for North Indians interested in Tamil and Telugu cinema.