In the evolving landscape of Tamil cinema, where genres are being redefined and realism is increasingly celebrated, DNA (2025) emerges as a poignant psychological thriller that dares to explore human trauma, parenthood, and institutional corruption — all while anchoring itself in a suspense-driven narrative. Directed by Nelson Venkatesan, this emotionally charged thriller features Atharvaa Murali and Nimisha Sajayan in lead roles, delivering two of the most compelling performances of their careers.
🔍 Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Set in Chennai, DNA tells the story of Anand, a recovering alcoholic attempting to rebuild his life after a bitter breakup. He enters into an arranged marriage with Divya, a woman diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Their fragile relationship takes an unexpected turn when Divya gives birth, only to insist that the newborn handed to her by the hospital is not hers.
What initially appears to be a delusional outburst turns into a disturbing revelation, as Anand begins to suspect a sinister child-swapping conspiracy. With the help of Chinnaswamy, a seasoned yet emotionally scarred police officer nearing retirement, the couple embarks on a desperate quest for the truth — a journey that peels back layers of systemic malpractice and human exploitation.
🎭 Performances: Depth and Nuance
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Atharvaa Murali as Anand delivers a career-defining performance. His portrayal of emotional vulnerability, restrained rage, and eventual resolve gives the film its emotional heartbeat. This isn’t just another heroic lead — Atharvaa brings realism and introspection to the screen.
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Nimisha Sajayan, known for her powerful work in Malayalam cinema, brings heartbreaking authenticity to Divya. Her depiction of mental illness is neither exaggerated nor pitiful; it's honest, unsettling, and deeply moving.
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Balaji Sakthivel as Chinnaswamy is quietly brilliant. He underplays his role with dignity and subtle sorrow, becoming an unlikely anchor for the chaotic investigation.
The supporting cast — including Ramesh Thilak, Chetan, Viji Chandrasekhar, and Riythvika — all shine in their respective roles, adding depth to the film’s gritty realism.
🎬 Direction and Screenplay
Nelson Venkatesan, known for his grounded storytelling in films like Oru Naal Koothu and Monster, returns with what is arguably his most ambitious film to date. The screenplay, co-written by Athisha Vino, balances emotional drama with investigative tension.
What elevates DNA is its commitment to empathy over sensationalism. The film does not rely on gimmicky twists or overblown action; instead, it lets its characters unravel naturally within the narrative. The theme of parental instinct — and what it means to "know" your child — becomes the emotional core of the film.
That said, the pacing occasionally wavers in the first half, and a few commercial elements (such as unnecessary songs) feel slightly misplaced in an otherwise mature drama.
🎼 Music and Technical Craft
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Background Score: Composed by Ghibran Vaibodha, the background score is haunting, understated, and beautifully synced with the emotional rhythm of the film.
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Soundtrack: Composed by five different musicians (Sathyaprakash, Sreekanth Hariharan, Pravin Saivi, Sahi Siva, Anal Akash), the music offers variety, though some songs dilute the film’s tension rather than enhance it.
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Cinematography: Parthiban’s lensing captures the raw, unpolished streets of Chennai, enhancing the mood of unease and claustrophobia. Night sequences are particularly striking, with a noir-like texture.
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Editing: V. J. Sabu Joseph does a commendable job maintaining coherence in an emotionally dense plot. However, the second act could have benefited from tighter transitions.
🧠 Themes and Subtext
What makes DNA stand apart is its refusal to take the easy route. The film bravely addresses:
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Mental health stigma — through Divya’s complex portrayal.
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Addiction recovery — Anand’s arc as a flawed yet empathetic protagonist.
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Systemic corruption — from hospitals to law enforcement.
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The strength of instinct — especially a mother’s refusal to doubt her truth.
These themes are neither spoon-fed nor overemphasized. They exist within the plot organically, asking the audience to reflect rather than judge.
📊 Box Office and Reception
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Budget: ₹6 Crore
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Box Office (as of July 2025): ₹7.36 Crore (Moderate success)
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Critical Acclaim:
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India Today: ★★★☆☆ – "A smart thriller with emotional undertones"
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Cinema Express: ★★★½ – "Elevated by soulful performances and an absorbing script"
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Audience Response: Mostly positive, with praise for performances and story depth, but minor criticism for pacing and commercial interruptions.
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📱 OTT Release Details
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Streaming Platform: Disney+ Hotstar (also on OTTplay Premium)
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Release Date: July 19, 2025
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Languages: Tamil (original), Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi (dubbed)
✅ Now available for streaming worldwide — perfect for a gripping weekend watch.
📝 Final Verdict
🎯 Rating: 3.5/5
DNA is a gripping psychological thriller that prioritizes character over convenience and mood over melodrama. It may not be the most fast-paced or commercially tailored film, but it is undeniably sincere, relevant, and emotionally resonant.
Watch it for:
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Stellar performances by Atharvaa and Nimisha
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A unique, emotionally layered crime plot
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Meaningful commentary on mental health and parental instinct
📌 Quick Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Psychological Thriller / Crime Drama |
| Director | Nelson Venkatesan |
| Lead Cast | Atharvaa Murali, Nimisha Sajayan |
| OTT Release | July 19, 2025 (Disney+ Hotstar) |
| Runtime | ~139 minutes |
| Language Versions | Tamil + 4 dubbed languages |
| Rating | ★★★½ (3.5/5) |
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