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8 South Indian Movies That Are Based On Books

South Indian movies are a treat to watch on screen. From high-end dramas to intriguing plots, filmmakers from the South Indian film industry know how to keep the audience hooked to the screens. However, did you know that a majority of them find inspiration of storytelling from different literary works? Many films have adapted beloved stories, fascinating audiences with their exciting plots and great acting.

Here are some notable South Indian movies based on books.

1. "The Goat Life" from Aadujeevitham by Benyamin
Blessy directed "The Goat Life" (Aadujeevitham), inspired by Benyamin's famous novel. The movie tells the story of Najeeb, a worker stuck in Saudi Arabia's desert. It shows Najeeb's challenges and his strength, touching on survival, loneliness, and hope along the way.
2. "Ponniyin Selvan" from Ponniyin Selvan by Kalki Krishnamoorthy
Mani Ratnam's movie, based on Kalki Krishnamoorthy's novel "Ponniyin Selvan," has been appreciated worldwide. It captured the grandeur and mystery of ancient Tamil Nadu during the Chola dynasty beautifully. Fans of the book were excited to see the epic story of politics, love, and betrayal on the big screen.
3. "Asuran" from Vekkai by Poomani
Vetrimaaran directed "Asuran," adapted from Poomani's book "Vekkai." The book deals with caste-based violence and oppression in rural Tamil Nadu. With powerful acting from Dhanush and Manju Warrier, "Asuran" perfectly depicts social injustice and the struggle for respect and dignity.
4. "Naan Kadavul" from Yezhaam Ulagam by Jeyamohan
Bala's movie "Naan Kadavul" is adapted from Jeyamohan's book "Yezhaam Ulagam." It sheds light on the tough lives of homeless people. Through strong acting and a powerful story, "Naan Kadavul" explores themes of faith, identity, and finding redemption.
5. "Viduthalai" from Thunaivan by Jeyamohan
"Viduthalai," directed by Vetrimaaran, is based on Jeyamohan's Thuaivan. It focuses on the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Through compelling storytelling and strong acting, the movie highlights social injustices and the struggle for equality and freedom.
6. "Paradesi" from Red Tea by Paul Harris Daniel
Bala's "Paradesi," set in colonial-era Tamil Nadu, tells the story from Paul Harris Daniel's book "Red Tea." It shows the tough lives of plantation workers facing exploitation. With its powerful depiction of oppression and strength, "Paradesi" reflects on the price people pay for imperialism.
7. "Kuttram 23" from Enni Ettavathu Naal by Rajesh Kumar
Arivazhagan's "Kuttram 23" is based on Rajesh Kumar's crime novel "Enni Ettavathu Naal." It tells the story of a sincere policeman investigating a series of murders tied to a medical conspiracy. With its thrilling storyline and unexpected turns, "Kuttram 23" keeps the audience engaged till the end.
8. "Aalavandhan" from Dhayam by Kamal Haasan
Suresh Krissna directed "Aalavandhan," based on Kamal Haasan’s book "Dhayam." It's a psychological thriller about twin brothers, one of whom has schizophrenia. Using creative storytelling and impressive visual effects, "Aalavandhan" breaks new ground in Indian cinema.

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