The successes of 2022 highlighted several shifting dynamics within Kollywood:
: A slice-of-life family drama starring Dhanush and Nithya Menen, which became a surprise box office hit.
This high-octane action thriller marked the spectacular return of "Ulaganayagan" Kamal Haasan after a four-year hiatus. It also formally established the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), blending gritty storytelling with phenomenal action choreography and a memorable cameo by Suriya as Rolex. Director: Nelson Dilipkumar Cast: Vijay, Pooja Hegde tamil play 2022 top
R. Madhavan’s directorial debut based on the life of ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan won hearts globally for its emotional depth and biographical accuracy. Heartwarming Dramas and Cult Hits
The legendary humorist’s troupe, Crazy Creations , continued to dominate the comedy genre. Chocolate Krishna was frequently staged in 2022, proving that Crazy Mohan’s signature comedy, wit, and wordplay remain timeless favorites among Chennai audiences. The successes of 2022 highlighted several shifting dynamics
While 2022 was not flush with specific "Tamil play-only" award ceremonies on a grand scale, the year saw significant critical recognition. The , which returned physically in 2022 after a virtual stint, staged award-winning plays from across the country, including Indian productions in multiple languages. Additionally, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2022 and 2023 were presented by the President of India, recognizing outstanding contributions to the performing arts, including theatre.
: A raw revenge thriller featuring Keerthy Suresh and Selvaraghavan, it was a critically acclaimed digital release. Director: Nelson Dilipkumar Cast: Vijay, Pooja Hegde R
Driven by the immense stardom of Thalapathy Vijay, this hostage thriller set inside a shopping mall dominated the box office. While it received mixed reviews for its screenplay, the film's soundtrack—particularly the global hit song "Arabic Kuthu"—and Vijay’s screen presence made it a massive commercial success. Director: H. Vinoth Cast: Ajith Kumar, Huma Qureshi, Kartikeya Gummakonda
Legendary feminist director A. Mangai returned in 2022 with Maarbu , a physical theatre piece about the body as a political site. The play had no linear narrative; instead, it used movement, breathing exercises, and recorded testimonies to explore chest-binding, heartbreak, and the weight of domestic violence. While avant-garde, Maarbu traveled extensively, performing in non-traditional spaces like parks and college corridors. It was the year’s most experimental Tamil play, challenging the definition of "drama" itself.
Here is a comprehensive retrospective on the top Tamil plays, movies, and cinematic milestones that defined 2022. The Historical Phenomenon: Ponniyin Selvan: I