The frequency of good movies dropped significantly in the early ’90s. However, there was a slow growth during the mid-2000s. This list features a few must-watch filmmakers of this generation, each making a significant contribution to the industry.
Let’s not forget Mani Ratnam, the godfather of modern filmmaking, revolutionizing Tamil cinema and influencing a generation. Also, S. Shankar, the creator of Indian and Mudhalvan, driving the development of special-effects technology in Indian cinema. Shankar has made substantial contributions to the industry through technology and innovations, especially in big-budget films.
1. Kamal Haasan
A filmmaker stirring a hunger for groundbreaking Tamil movies. Among the most cerebral, his films tackle bold subjects with intensive research, a wide canvas, and overlapping dialogue. More movies from him are eagerly anticipated. Must-See: Hey Ram, Virumaandi.
2. Bala
He tops the list for the sheer brilliance of his craft and the profound darkness of his themes. He presents a world close to us yet so unfamiliar. His movies are incredibly different, yet amazing. Every dark and tragic film is compared to Bala because he is the master of the moments. He has also elevated some unseen ‘actors’ to top ‘acting’ status, working outside the commercial formula. Must-See: Nan Kadavul, Paradesi.
3. Mysshkin
His movies transport you to an entirely new world. No one can create a film like him. The background score, scene presentation, and unique characters in his movies work like magic. His exceptional storytelling, camera movements, angles, and shots are amazing and always keep his audience intrigued. You can instantly recognize a Mysshkin film from others. I would label him the most experimental filmmaker. Must-See: Anjathey, Yudham Sei, Onaiyum Aattukkuttiyum.
4. Vetrimaaran
An amazing writer with a remarkable ability to design characters. Human nature and emotions are recurring themes in his movies, making them highly watchable. He is yet to make a bad film. Hearing great reports about his upcoming film ‘Visaranai’ as well. A filmmaker to watch. Must-See: Aadukalam.
5. Pa. Ranjith & Karthik Subbaraj
The creators of Madras and Jigarthanda, two highly promising directors in Tamil cinema. Pa. Ranjith has embarked on his biggest gamble with Kabali starring Rajinikanth. While it’s necessary to wait for their next films to make a fair judgment due to the contrasting nature of their first and second movies, it’s unavoidable to recognize the impact they’ve made with their respective works.
6. Selvaraghavan
He has navigated through various genres, introducing Tamil cinema to the iconic gangster ‘Kokki Kumar.’ A master at connecting audiences with the profound aspects of human emotions, on a deeper level. Must-See: 7/G Rainbow Colony, Puthupettai.
7. Gautham Menon
A poetic filmmaker, he unfolds movies with confidence, occasionally betraying audience trust by mid-way heroine deaths. Balancing between commercial and artistic, he brings Hollywood style to Tamil action masala/dramas. Must-See: Kakka Kakka, Vaaranam Aayiram, Vettayadu Vilayadu.
8. Sasikumar
The long shot climax scene in Subramaniapuram secures its spot in the list. An innovative director akin to classic French films. Must-See: Subramaniapuram.
9. Ameer Sultan
No matter how deeply he made Paruthiveeran cut, he extracts performances only the best filmmakers can. Two undisputed modern-day classics. Must-See: Raam, Paruthiveeran.
10. Seenu Ramasamy
He never ventured into the commercial side but sticks to topics he can beautifully portray. Lack of huge commercial success, yet his style and plots gain a growing fan following with each film. Must-watch: Thenmerku Paruvakatru, Neerparavai.
Special Mention: AR Murugadoss stands out in a popular path, weaker in song placement but strong in presenting real-life plots with masala appeal to the mass audience. His consistently interesting subjects make him special. Must-see: Thuppakki, Ghajini.
Special Mention: Ram – Artistic, and intellectual. His Katrathu Thamizh is a must watch.
Special Mention: Balaji Shakthivel – The independent minded filmmaker debuted with an action film, Samurai, shifted his gear to movies that showed wide range of human emotions. A very skilled artist. Must See: Vazhakku Enn 18/9 and Kadhal.
Waiting for second films: 1. Nalan Kumarasamy and Thiagarajan Kumararaja
Cinephile. Learning the art of filmmaking. Writer. Filmmaker.
I mentioned about them before starting the list itself bro 🙂
Bro wheres mani ratnam and shankar????
bro where is one of the india’s best director’s name “S”