As Dhanush moves ahead into a new year, we celebrate the seven movies that worked towards cementing his position as perhaps the most versatile and multi-faceted actor in the Indian cinema landscape. These works, ranging from emotional maturity to commercial allure, have traversed multiple decades and even more numerous genres. 7 Must Watch Movies of Dhanush Defining His Stardom.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
In this raw, caste-conscious rural drama directed by Vetrimaaran, Dhanush gives an award-winning powerhouse performance as Sivasaami, a father who stands up for his own beliefs of justice. It received a National Film Award, on the list of career-defining films, it will be remembered for its sheer emotional impact and the audacity to tell the truth.
Where to Watch: Sun NXT, Aha Tamil
Under Selvaraghavan’s guidance, Dhanush is already far from Kokki Kumar, an immature youth about to enter the ranks of a ruthless gangster. Pudhupettai demarcated Dhanush as an actor with a cult status in psychological horror genre.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Another collaboration with Vetrimaaran, this sprawling gang epic features Dhanush as a carom prodigy thrust into Chennai’s criminal underworld. Layered characters with gritty realism make this one of the actor’s most lauded roles.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, MX Player
In Madurai’s cockfight backdrop, Dhanush’s Karuppu got him the National Film Award for Best Actor. Mixing commercial sensibilities with emotional depth, Aadukalam is beautifully etched with interspersed themes of rivalry, love, and betrayal.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Mari Selvaraj’s Karnan focuses on cast injustices with fervor. Playing a young man leading a revolt, Dhanush steers the film with gravitas and authenticity, collecting acclaim and box-office spoils even in the pandemic era.
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Where to Watch: ZEE5
Dhanush’s debut in the Hindi film industry catapulted him onto the national stage. As Kundan—a passionate young man from Varanasi—his was a performance that balanced vulnerability with intense devotion, winning hearts and critical appreciation across India.
Where to Watch: Sun NXT, Netflix
This heartwarming slice-of-life movie shows Dhanush in more human, more relatable form. Playing a delivery man who navigates love and family relationships, he lends warmth and understated charm, and it has gone on to be his highest-grossing theatrical release to date.