From Shadows to Spotlight

Preity Mukhundhan (Star)

In a film that begins as a slice-of-life story about Kavin’s Kalaiarasan and evolves into a broader narrative, Preity Mukhundhan’s brief yet memorable presence as Meera Malarkodi adds warmth to Kalai’s journey. While Star ultimately focuses on Kalai’s family and ambitions, director Elan ensures that Meera’s influence is felt, and Preity’s performance subtly underscores her impact on his life.

As Kalai’s supportive yet hesitant girlfriend, Preithy excels at capturing Meera’s emotional restraint in a relationship that gradually becomes one-sided. In the pivotal scene where Meera chooses to marry another man, Preity conveys her lingering regret through nuanced expressions.

Mamitha Baiju (Rebel)

After receiving praise for an effervescent performance in Premalu, Mamitha Baiju made her Tamil debut with Rebel. Although she may be the quintessential love interest here, Mamitha’s character is a strong woman with her own agency and political ideologies.

As a woman on the wrong side of justice, Mamitha portrayed Sara Mary John confidently, highlighting her privilege before she eventually grasps the oppression GV Prakash’s Kathiresan faces. With two contrasting roles, Mamitha has established her versatility and made it clear that she is poised for bigger things in Tamil cinema.

Suruthi Periyasamy (Nandhan)

After a few cameos and smaller roles, Suruthi Periyasamy—known for her stint on Bigg Boss—made her lead debut in Nandhan as the Sasikumar character’s supportive spouse Selvi.

While she is a supporting character, Selvi plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative, guiding Sasikumar’s Ambedkumar to recognise the injustices he faces. Unlike conventional female leads, Selvi stands as a voice of reason and clarity, consistently calling out wrongdoing. Suruthi’s performance shines in emotionally charged scenes, particularly when Selvi endures physical assault, conveying the quiet strength that emerges from years of suppressed trauma.