Six Tamil Films That Deserved the Web Series Treatment
written by Richard Mahesh R There was a time when the audience, and even the trade, failed to recognise the true value of certain ambitious Tamil films. Stories that were ahead of their time, whether in theme, scale, or narrative structure, often went unappreciated during their theatrical run. These weren’t mere box office under-performers; they were misunderstood works of brilliance that didn’t get their due.
However, the post-pandemic shift in viewing habits has sparked a silent revolution. Today’s audience has become more discerning, they clearly distinguish between “star-driven theatrical spectacles” and “concept-driven OTT narratives.” The rise of web series culture, in-depth YouTube breakdowns, and Instagram film dissections has fostered a new kind of engagement, one that’s more welcoming of layered, unconventional storytelling. In hindsight, some of these earlier films might have thrived as multi-episode web series, perhaps even earning cult status and international recognition.
Let’s take a closer look at six such Tamil films that, if released today as web series, might have worked magic.
Aayirathil Oruvan – A Kingdom Too Soon
A bold, genre-defying experiment from Selvaraghavan, Aayirathil Oruvan wove an intense narrative of lost Tamil kingdoms, modern-day quests, and mystical elements. Made on a grand scale far ahead of its time — even preceding the grandeur of Baahubali — the film failed to connect deeply with audiences during its initial release.
Yet its recent re-release sparked a renewed cult following. Imagine if it had been made as a web series — unraveling the history, politics, and mythology across seasons. It could’ve easily matched global fantasy epics and even won international acclaim, perhaps even an Emmy.
Irandam Ulagam – The Parallel World Misunderstood
When Tamil cinema was still warming up to reincarnation stories, Selvaraghavan threw in a curveball — Parallel Universes. Irandam Ulagam was visually stunning and conceptually dense, offering a fresh take on love, identity, and destiny.
Sadly, it released before the audience had the bandwidth to process such layered sci-fi fantasy. Years later, during the Instagram boom and lockdown introspection phase, its themes finally found appreciation through YouTube breakdowns and influencer dissections. As a series, its emotional arcs and world-building could have breathed better and lasted longer.
Ponniyin Selvan – Rich Story, Rushed Canvas
Yes, Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan was a box office success. And yes, he did take bold liberties with the story — especially the climax — which left purists unhappy. But no matter where you stand on those decisions, one thing’s certain: Kalki’s epic deserved more time.
A web series adaptation spanning at least 5-6 seasons could’ve done justice to its vast political intrigue, rich characters, and historical depth. The novel format could have unraveled the layers slowly, making each character arc resonate more powerfully with both newcomers and loyal readers.
Thug Life – Too Much in Too Little
Thug Life tried to do a lot — and maybe that was the problem. With Mani Ratnam steering the ship and a powerful cast onboard, the film promised high-voltage drama but struggled to balance its layered conflicts in a limited runtime.
As a web series with clear chapter divisions — Seasons 1 through 3, perhaps — it could’ve dived deeper into the characters’ psyche, motivations, and evolution. On the big screen, it felt rushed. As a mini-series, it could’ve felt revolutionary.
Thangalaan – Gold Mines and Reincarnation?
Chiyaan Vikram’s spellbinding performance and Pa. Ranjith’s signature socio-political storytelling made Thangalaan a fascinating watch. The first half was brilliant, although the screenplay stumbled later.
But imagine a broader reimagining — a two-era narrative where modern tycoons battle over gold, only to realize they share ancestral links across generations. Stretching the lore over episodes could’ve created space for myth, drama, and surprise. As a web series, the gold rush would’ve turned golden.
Kanguvaa – Nature, Warriors & Lost Legends
Marketed as a mega visual treat, Kanguvaa packed grandeur, myth, and fantasy across shifting climates and mysterious islands. But even with its scale, a theatrical runtime just isn’t enough to unpack such a vast world.
A multi-season global fantasy series could’ve drawn parallels with Game of Thrones or The Witcher. With international appeal, multiple dubs, and rich lore, Kanguvaa was built for binge, not brevity.
Final Word
These films weren’t failures, they were misunderstood epics that needed a different language, a different rhythm. As Tamil cinema continues to experiment, maybe it’s time to recognize that not all stories belong to the silver screen. Some belong to the small screen, but with big, bold hearts.
