Director Nithilan Swaminathan’s latest thriller, Maharaja, marks Tamil star Vijay Sethupathi’s 50th film. Released on June 14, 2024, this film initially had a modest box office performance but gained much-deserved attention after its OTT release on Netflix.
The story revolves around a simple barber, Maharaja (Vijay Sethupathi), whose life centers on his job, and his daughter, Jothi, a budding sports champion. Their sweet relationship includes a shared affection for a dustbin named ‘Lakshmi.’ However, when Lakshmi gets stolen, Maharaja’s quest to recover it spirals into a compelling, slow-burning thriller.
Since the internet has been abuzz with talks about anything and everything related to Maharaja, here’s a list of movies with storylines that echo the suspense and thrills of Vijay Sethupathi’s latest film.
Bramayugam
Streaming Platform: SonyLIV
Mammootty’s Bramayugam is a standout black-and-white horror thriller. Released on February 15, 2024, the film centers around Thevan (Arjun Ashokan), who seeks refuge in an ancient mansion. However, the mansion is more than what it appears to be, and escaping it becomes impossible. “Once you step through the gateway of this mana (a Namboodiri mansion), it itself becomes the river, plains, and mountain,” the servant (Sidharth Bharathan) tells Thevan.
However, Thevan interprets it as the place’s vast expanse but soon realizes that isn’t the case. It is more of a warning about its inescapable nature. The mansion hides many secrets, with Mammootty’s character, Kodumon Potty, being its eerie, enigmatic presence. Directed by Rahul Sadasivan, the movie explores themes of survival and entrapment, creating a suspenseful atmosphere reminiscent of Maharaja.
Haseen Dillruba
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Haseen Dillruba is a gripping tale of crime and passion. Taapsee Pannu stars as Rani Kashyap, the prime suspect in her husband’s murder. The film unfolds through Rani’s testimony, revealing a turbulent marriage and the involvement of Rishu’s cousin, Neel Tripathi (Harshvardhan Rane).
As Rani recounts her rocky relationship with Rishu, played by Vikrant Massey, the tension builds, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The film’s intricate plot, psychological depth, and nostalgic ode are reminiscent of the tension found in Maharaja.
Kurangu Bommai
Streaming Platform: ZEE5
Nithilan Swaminathan’s debut film, Kurangu Bommai, features an intriguing plot involving a smuggled statue and a series of interconnected stories. The film, like Maharaja, uses inanimate objects as central plot devices. In this movie, a sawmill owner smuggles a valuable statue with the help of his friend Sundaram (Bharathiraja).
Moreover, the film’s storyline intertwines the lives of various characters, all linked by the statue. With a blend of dark comedy and suspense, Kurangu Bommai offers a thrilling experience, culminating in a shocking climax.
Kahaani
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Kahaani is a taut thriller featuring Vidya Balan as a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata during Durga Puja. The film’s intricate plot, surprising twists, and strong performances make it a standout in the genre.
Vidya’s quest to find her husband, Arnab Bagchi, leads her through a labyrinth of secrets and deception, which leaves the viewers on the edge of their seats. Finally, the film climaxes during the grand festival’s final night, revealing a never-expected plot twist. The story’s setting and cultural backdrop add to its suspenseful allure, akin to Maharaja.
Drishyam
Streaming Platform: Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and JioCinema
Drishyam, starring Ajay Devgn, follows Vijay Salgaonkar, a man whose family becomes entangled in a crime. The disappearance of a top cop’s son leads to a gripping investigation. Vijay’s use of wit and resources to protect his family resonates with the protective instincts seen in Maharaja. The film’s intricate plot and suspenseful narrative make it a standout thriller.
Talaash
Streaming Platform: Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
Talaash features Aamir Khan as Inspector Shekhawat, who investigates a mysterious car crash while grappling with personal demons. The film’s blend of psychological and supernatural elements creates a haunting and engaging thriller. To date, many wonder whether the film is based on a true story or not. Apart from Khan, the film also features Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor Khan.
