Kamal Haasan's must-watch action-thriller films: A birthday tribute to the cinema icon

Explore the cinematic universe of Kamal Haasan, a legendary actor and filmmaker, through a thrilling journey of his most iconic action-packed films. From the intense investigations of "Vikram" to the thought-provoking story of power and corruption in "Nayakan," and the moral dilemmas faced by dedicated police officers in "Kuruthipunal," these movies showcase Haasan's versatility and storytelling prowess. Discover the vigilante justice in "Indian" and the psychological intricacies of "Aalavandhan." Finally, delve into the world of espionage and suspense in "Vishwaroopam." Join us as we embark on a cinematic adventure filled with action, suspense, and a touch of social justice, all brought to life by the enigmatic Kamal Haasan.

Vikram

Kamal Haasan's "Vikram," released on June 3, 2022, is a high-octane action thriller directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Haasan plays a special investigator tasked with solving a series of gruesome serial killings. However, as he delves deeper into the case, he unravels a complex web of intrigue that leads to a dangerous drug lord in Chennai. With an intense plot and a stellar cast, "Vikram" promises a gripping ride, where the line between justice and chaos blurs, setting the stage for an epic showdown. Haasan not only stars in the film but also produces it, making this a must-watch for fans of intense action thrillers.

Nayakan

"Nayakan" (1987) is a riveting action-thriller directed by Mani Ratnam and featuring Kamal Haasan in a defining role. This Indian Tamil-language film tells the gripping tale of Velu Nayakan, a common man driven to the dark side by a corrupt police force. His transformation into a powerful and respected gangster takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride through the Mumbai underworld. As Velu Nayakan's influence grows, the film delves into the complex themes of power, corruption, and forbidden love, making it a thought-provoking cinematic experience. With an impressive cast and an engaging storyline, "Nayakan" is a must-watch masterpiece that has rightfully earned its place as one of the greatest Tamil films ever made.

Kuruthipunal

"Kuruthipunal" is aninteresting 1995 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film, directed and filmed by P. C. Sreeram, and co-produced and written by the legendary Kamal Haasan. Starring Haasan himself, alongside Arjun, Nassar, Gautami, and Geetha, the film is a gripping remake of the 1994 Hindi film "Drohkaal." It unfolds the intense narrative of two dedicated police officers who infiltrate a terrorist group, embarking on a high-stakes mission to thwart their sinister plans. Released on 23 October 1995, "Kuruthipunal" follows the relentless pursuit of Adhi, a policeman, as he orchestrates "Operation Dhanush" to apprehend the menacing terrorist, Badri, and prevent further bloodshed. However, when Badri threatens Adhi's family, a heart-wrenching dilemma ensues, forcing him to make a profound choice between his duty and his loved ones. This action-packed thriller, starring Kamal Haasan, is a must-watch, delivering suspense, action, and moral quandaries that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Indian

"Indian" is a 1996 Tamil-language vigilante action film directed by Shankar and produced by A. M. Rathnam. The film features Kamal Haasan in a dual role, one as an honest veteran who served in the Indian Army and decides to take on corrupt officials, and the other as his son, a corrupt government official. The movie, with music by A. R. Rahman and cinematography by Jeeva, revolves around the vigilante's mission to target officials, ministers, and bureaucrats, forcing them to work diligently without accepting bribes. The film's storyline follows the journey of a veteran freedom fighter who, appalled by the rising crime and corruption in society, takes matters into his own hands. He employs an ancient martial arts technique to systematically eliminate wrongdoers one by one. "India" is a must-watch action thriller that showcases Kamal Haasan's versatility and social justice themes. Moreover, a sequel to the film is currently in the works, making it a significant milestone in Indian cinema.

Aalavandhan

"Aalavandhan" (2001) is a gripping Indian psychological action thriller directed by Suresh Krissna, featuring Kamal Haasan in dual roles as twin brothers, Vijay and Nandu. The film delves into the complexities of their relationship, marked by childhood abuse from their stepmother. When Nandu, who is mentally ill, escapes from an asylum, he becomes obsessed with the idea of killing Vijay's fiancée, Tejaswini, whom he sees as his evil stepmother reincarnated. This intense movie blends action, suspense, and psychological elements, making it a must-watch for Kamal Haasan fans and thriller enthusiasts.

Vishwaroopam

"Vishwaroopam" is anoverwhelming 2013 Indian action spy film that showcases the multi-talented Kamal Haasan as its writer, director, producer, and lead actor. The story revolves around Nirupama, a determined woman studying in the USA, who marries Viswanathan, a seemingly timid classical dancer. However, her suspicions lead her to hire a detective, unveiling a shocking truth about her husband's real identity and a connection to a dark and dangerous world. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Viswanathan is working to prevent an international terror attack by an Afghan Al-Qaeda operative from his past. With a blend of suspense, action, and a stellar cast, "Vishwaroopam" is a must-watch action thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Shot simultaneously in both Tamil and Hindi, the film boasts a powerful soundtrack by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, featuring lyrics by Vairamuthu and Kamal Haasan himself in Tamil, with Javed Akhtar providing translations for the Hindi version. This film not only captivates viewers with its intricate plot but also showcases Kamal Haasan's exceptional talents in the world of Indian cinema, making it a memorable cinematic experience. "Vishwaroopam" is a testament to Haasan's creativity and storytelling prowess, delivering a high-octane thriller that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.

On Kamal Haasan's 69th birthday, let's celebrate the cinematic journey of a versatile actor who has graced us with compelling stories, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. His contributions to Indian cinema have left an indelible mark, and his films continue to captivate audiences, transcending time and language barriers. Happy Birthday to a true legend!