In a spectacular year for Tamil movies, 2023 has witnessed several blockbuster hits dominating the box office. These Tamil movies broke records and captivated audiences across the globe.
Leading the charge is the Tamil sensation Leo, which has not only sustained its triumphant streak but also surpassed all expectations, becoming the highest-grossing film in the state.
Leo
Leo continues to dominate the Tamil Nadu box office with a worldwide collection of $73 million. Despite facing a significant drop on Friday due to Diwali releases, the film rebounded during the holiday season, contributing to its robust collections.
This remarkable achievement marks the second time a Vijay film has claimed the top spot in the list of highest-grossing films. His first instance dates back to his 2004 release, Ghilli. Despite being the reigning superstar of the Tamil film industry, this milestone has eluded him until now.
Jailer
Following closely behind Leo is the 2023-release Jailer, an Indian Tamil movie from the action comedy genre. It is directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. Starring Rajinikanth in the lead role, the film boasts a stellar cast, including Vinayakan, Ramya Krishnan, Vasanth Ravi, Tamannaah Bhatia, Sunil, Mirnaa Menon, and Yogi Babu. Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, and Jackie Shroff also make guest appearances. Jailer collects a worldwide box office collection of $72 million.
Jailer revolves around Muthuvel Pandian, a retired police officer living in Kodambakkam with his family. As his son, ACP Arjun, investigates a gangster named Varman, the plot thickens with family ties, criminal activities, and a quest for justice.
Ponniyin Selvan: II
Another noteworthy addition to the list of 2023’s highest-grossing Tamil movies is Ponniyin Selvan: II (PS-2). This epic historical action drama is directed by Mani Ratnam. Serving as a direct sequel to Ponniyin Selvan: I (2022). The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Vikram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, Trisha, Jayaram, Prabhu, R. Sarathkumar, Sobhita Dhulipala, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Vikram Prabhu, Prakash Raj, Rahman, and R. Parthiban.
The narrative weaves together a historical tapestry, drawing viewers into the lives of characters like Nandini, Aditha Karikalan, and Ponniyin Selvan. The film delivers a captivating continuation of the storyline set in the 1954 novel Ponniyin Selvan by Kalki Krishnamurthy. The worldwide box office collection of PS-2 is $41 million.
Varisu
Adding to the blockbuster lineup of 2023 is Varisu. This Tamil movie is of the action drama genre, directed by Vamshi Paidipally. Produced by Dil Raju and Sirish under the banner of Sri Venkateswara Creations and PVP Cinema, the film stars Vijay, R. Sarathkumar, Srikanth, Shaam, Prabhu, Prakash Raj, Rashmika Mandanna, Jayasudha, Sangeetha, Samyuktha Shanmughanadhan, Nandini Rai, Yogi Babu, Ganesh Venkatraman, S. J. Suryah, and Suman in supporting roles. Varisu collected a worldwide collection of $35 million.
The storyline revolves around Vijay, the youngest son of a prominent billionaire entrepreneur, who takes center stage after being disowned and thrown out of the family for pursuing his entrepreneurial dreams. The film explores family dynamics, sibling rivalry, and the pursuit of success against the backdrop of a high-stakes corporate world.
Thunivu
Last but certainly not least is Thunivu, a 2023 Indian Tamil movie written and directed by H. Vinoth. Produced by Boney Kapoor, the film stars Ajith Kumar in the lead role, supported by Manju Warrier, Samuthirakani, John Kokken, Ajay, and Veera. Thunivu’s worldwide collection is $23 million.
The gripping plot follows the meticulous planning of a bank heist orchestrated by the feared gangster Radha, played by Ajith Kumar, with the support of ACP Ramachandran. However, the tables turn when a mysterious figure, nicknamed Michael Jackson, and his partner Kanmani hijack the bank, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle of wits and fortitude.
