Tamil Superstar Dhanush is undoubtedly one of the most talented actors of Indian cinema. He is a complete package who has proved his mettle not just as an actor, but in direction, production, singing and writing as well. Dhanush first appeared on the silver screen in the Tamil film ‘Thulluvadho Ilamai’ which was directed by his father Kasthuri Raja. Today on his 38th birthday, here’s looking at some of his best films –
1. Aadukalam (Jio Cinema, MX Player)
Directed by Vetri Maaran, this 2011 film is considered to be one of the actor’s best performances. The film not only got huge critical acclaim, but also fetched Dhanush a National Award for Best Actor. The basic plotline of the film revolves around Madurai’s bloodsport of cock-fights, blended with a pinch of love, betrayal, and drama. Dhanush portrayed the role of a local, self-confident, brave guy who is a master at rooster fights.
2. Vada Chennai (Hotstar)
Another Vetri Maaran directorial, Dhanush plays the role of a proficient carrom player who sets foot in the world of crime and joins forces with local gangsters to settle their feuds. This 2018 film achieved a cult classic status among audiences and will remain one of the actor’s most remarkable performances, earning him a Filmfare award.
3. Velaiyilla Pattathari aka VIP (Jio Cinema)
Dhanush plays an unemployed engineering graduate ‘Raghuvaran’ in this 2014 comedy action-drama, who refuses to accept jobs unrelated to his area of expertise. His life takes a tragic turn post his mother’s death that brings with it grave challenges. This film is loved for being the perfect commercial blend of sentiments and heroism, that made it a huge blockbuster at the box-office. It was a huge success in Telugu as well.
4. Asuran (Amazon Prime Video)
Just like the previous ones, this 2019 film too, got a phenomenal response from audiences and critics alike, elevating Dhanush to the next level as an actor. He played the role of an aged farmer on the run with his family, compelled to protect his son, who in a fit of vengeance murders a wealthy, upper-caste landlord. The film won the National award for best feature film and Dhanush too, won for best actor.
5. 3 (SonyLiv, MX Player)
A 2012 romantic psychological thriller film, written and directed by his wife Aishwarya, it is the story of two high-school sweethearts, Ram and Janani, who eventually get married. However, Janani suddenly has to deal with Ram’s suicide and the truth behind his death. This film too, fetched Dhanush a Filmfare award.
6. Thanga Magan (Hotstar)
This 2015 drama-action film written and directed by Velraj, is the story of Tamizh, played by Dhanush, who’s life turns upside down when his father commits suicide. The film follows his quest to uncover the truth and those responsible for the death. His chemistry with Samantha in the lighter first half of the movie is truly heartwarming. The song ‘Enna Solla’ is one his most popular melodies. A must see for fans of the actor.
7. Mayakkam Enna (MX Player)
Dhanush ventured into the dark territory with this 2011 film, directed by his brother Selvaraghavan. The plot of this critically acclaimed movie revolves around a wildlife photographer and his passion-turned-obsession that makes him into nothing short of a monster. Although the movie starts off as a lighthearted rom-com, it takes on a dark twist in the latter half. Dhanush’s convincing portrayal as the dark, villainous, abusive alcoholic, certainly goes down as one of his finest performances.
8. Kaadhal Kondein (MX Player)
Dhanush’s breakthrough came with this 2003 thriller that was just his second film. Directed by Selvaraghavan, it was considered dark for its time, as it dealt with the concept of physical and mental child abuse. Dhanush delivered a gem of a performance as a silent, eccentric guy coming across as perfectly harmless. However, he is later revealed to be a psychopath who goes to extremes to woo his lady love. With such a bold film so early on in his career, it is no surprise that Dhanush became such a huge success.
9. The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (Amazon Prime Video)
Based on the novel by Romain Puertolas, this 2018 film recounts an Indian street magician’s eventful journey to Paris in search of his father. Dhanush plays the role of Ajatashatru, a fakir, who swindles people for a living and manages to fly to Paris in search of his father. However, his life turns upside down when he falls in love in the city. This warm, feel good film was Dhanush’s first international venture and his performance charms you all the way! This movie also won awards at International Film Festivals in Spain and Norway.
10. Maryan (MX Player)
Dhanush collaborated with Bharat Bala for this 2013 rescue-drama, inspired by a true story. He plays Maryan, a man working in an oil company in Sudan to repay his uncle’s loans. On his way back, he and his co-workers are held hostage by terrorists. How he escapes and returns home forms the crux of the movie. Despite positive reviews from critics, the film didn’t do well at the box office but had one of the biggest openings upon its release. The film was appreciated for its screenplay, visuals, performances and soulful music by AR Rahman.
11. Pudhupettai (Amazon Prime Video)
Directed by Selvaraghavan, this 2006 gangster saga might have bombed at the box-office, but enjoys a large fan-base even today. Being the first film that truly showcased Dhanush’s range as an actor, the story follows the rise and fall of an innocent school-boy-turned-gangster. The film achieved cult status over the years and is easily one of the actor’s most raw and remembered performances.
12. Raanjhanaa (Zee5, Jio Cinema)
This Anand Rai directed, 2013 romantic drama marked the Bollywood debut of Dhanush. The film was released in Tamil as ‘Ambikapathy’ and garnered positive reviews. Set in Benares, the movie revolves around a boy’s obsession for the woman he loves and his redemption upon ruining her life. The movie was a grand love saga in every sense, powered by a solid storyline, incredible performances and great music by A.R.Rahman. More importantly, this film also broke the existing stereotypical image of a hero and went down as one of Dhanush’s best performances.