Before Japan’s OTT release, stream these 5 critically acclaimed films starring Karthi

After its month-long theatrical run, actor Karthi’s heist thriller film Japan is all set for its OTT premiere - streaming on Netflix from December 11. The highly anticipated movie, helmed by Raja Murugan, received mixed reviews from audiences, and ended up as an average affair at the box office. 

The plot follows Japan Muni (Karthi), a notorious thief who is famous for his tricks. The police forces of all the four south Indian states were after him for a long time, but he always managed to escape. Japan is accused of stealing jewels worth ₹200 crore from a reputed jewellery shop in Coimbatore, but he denies these allegations against him, and instead embarks on a mission. Anu Emmanuel plays the role of Sanju Kutty in the film. 

While Japan is poised for its Netflix premiere, here are five critically acclaimed films, starring Karthi, that you can binge-watch on streaming platforms:

1. Aayirathil Oruvan

Streaming on: Sun NXT

Directed by Selvaraghavan, Aayirathil Oruvan narrates the journey of Muthu (Karthi), Anitha (Reema Sen) and Lavanya (Andrea Jeremiah) during the war between the Pandyas and the Chola group. The Cholas flee to an unknown land, taking the sacred idol of the Pandyas with them. The critically acclaimed film has been credited as one of the best films from Karthi’s filmography, which is credited for the lead actors’ performances and screenplay. 

2. Paruthiveeran

Streaming on: MX Player

Karthi made his acting debut in this 2007 critically acclaimed film by Ameer Sultan. Paruthiveeran’s leading lady Priyamani went on to bag the National Award under the ‘Best Actor (female)’ category. The movie follows a young and carefree man, named Paruthiveeran, who saves Muththazhagu’s life and they eventually fall in love. However, their families object to their union, forcing the couple to elope.

3. Naan Mahaan Alla

Streaming on: ZEE5

Released in 2010, this Suseenthiran-directed action film has Karthi and Kajal Aggarwal in the lead roles. Naan Mahaan Alla follows Karthi’s character Jeeva - a youngster who falls in love with Priya, who comes from a wealthy family. Things turn upside down when his father is murdered and they both set out to find the killer. The film, which is based on a real-life incident, received praise for its performance. The film’s climax fight sequence goes on to become a benchmark for the makers of Karthi’s 2019 actioner Kaithi.

4. Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru

Streaming on: Disney+ Hotstar

One of the well-crafted films of all time, Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru, directed by H Vinoth, narrates a story inspired by true events surrounding the Tamil Nadu police force. In the 2017 film, Karthi plays the titular role of Theeran, who is a dedicated police officer. However, he pays the price for his honesty and faces hardships when he tries to investigate the illegal activities conducted by a powerful gangster. A sequel to the film was announced by the director, which is expected to go on floors in 2024.

5. Kaithi

Streaming on: Disney+ Hotstar

The first film from the LCU franchise by Lokesh Kanagaraj, this crime thriller - starring Karthi as Dilli - went on to become one of the most successful films in the actor’s career. Kaithi was praised for its perfectly shot intense action scenes and for Karthi’s raw performance as an ex-convict. The 2019 movie revolves around ex-convict Dilli, who wishes to meet his daughter for the first time after leaving prison. However, his attempts are interrupted due to a drug raid planned by Inspector Bejoy.

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