2022 was a great year for cinema. With audiences coming out in huge numbers after a year long break due to the pandemic. Moviegoing was not just an event, it was a celebration. Here is a list of South Indian films that were truly phenomenal and adored throughout the country. Check out the best movies of 2022 in this article.
Gargi
An impactful, legal drama that explored sexual abuse was one of the best films of 2022. Directed by Gautham Ramachandran is a knockout film with terrific writing, memorable scene and a stellar performance by everyone, but especially Sai Pallavi who carries the film on her back. A heavy subject made with refined filmmaking, Gargi is an earnest film perfect in all departments: writing, performances, sound design, editing and cinematography. The characters and situations were dealt with a non-judgmental treatment, and also casted trans actor Sudha S, to play the role of a transwoman (the Judge). It’s an edge of the seat thriller that is unpredictable despite its familiar premise. Watch the film on SonyLiv.
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Natchathiram Nagargirathu
The beauty of Natchathiram Nagargirathu is that it’s a well-written film dealing with heavy conversations on culture, socio-political prejudices, discrimination, gender and art. It becomes a fun watch in a visually poetic and deeply exploratory manner. It’s a masterfully crafted romantic musical, with a brilliant structure, discussing contemporary and the broad spectrum of socio-political topics influencing it. The narrative has satire, irony, metaphors, strong emotions, humor, impactful dialogues and amazing music. The diverse characters are played by a solid cast, with Kalaiarasan and Dushara taking the top spots, embodying the intended ideological conflicts. The lighting, cinematography and editing are a delight and add to the storytelling. This film built on the back of contradictions and important conversations told through dance numbers. It demonstrates how Indian cinema is evolving in its storytelling. It is a must-watch, groundbreaking movie streaming on Netflix.
Sita Ramam
Sita Ramam is one of the most nuanced contemporary rom-coms to come out of India. An epic period film with love and war as its main themes, it is a well-executed, emotional and poetic film. The production design is especially commendable, bringing back the beautiful aesthetics of old Hyderabad from the 70s and 80s. The music was adored and became a hit in all languages, Dulquer Salmaan and Mrunal Thakur make the movie timeless with their earnest and honest performance, and natural chemistry. The supporting cast is a delight as well. This movie is a delight for fans of old school romance. The costume department did a great job too.
It is a visual feast, thanks to the cinematographers P. S. Vinod and Shreyaas Krishna who make every frame extraordinary. This film is streaming on Prime in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam.
Vikram
Lokesh Kanagaraj delivers big time with Vikram. This film was fun to watch, with the audience on the edge of their seats with intense excitement and mind-blowing background score. The performance of Fahadh Faasil stole the show, he never disappoints. Vikram has some great cinematic scenes, its action sequences are perfectly choreographed and are a treat to watch. It feels like the perfect extension to the Lokesh Kanagaraj extended universe, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store next!
Jana Gana Mana
This legal drama was an impactful commentary on contemporary police brutality and an inquiry into truth. It sheds light on the hypocrisy of the legal system and has strong performances from Suraj Venjaramoodu and Prithiviraj. The writing of the film could be better structured but the film delivers nonetheless and is a treat to watch. With a solid climax and interesting narrative structure, Jana Gana Mana is a must-watch film, currently streaming on Netflix.
RRR
SS Rajamouli successfully makes one of the most technically advanced and challenging films to come out of India. A difficult attempt that delivers. The two leads NTR Jr and Ram Charan became the most loved duo with fabulous performances, especially Ram Charan with a multilayered character arc. He displayed a multitude of his acting abilities while NTR Jr. was sublime yet equally terrific. This commercial film made with over-the-top sequences is now Shortlisted to be the Best Film at the Oscars 2023 and has a serious chance of getting nominated as well. It was one of the most beautiful cinematic experiences and is streaming now on Netflix and Amazon Prime.
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