- While the movie has many strengths, there are some weak points, especially in the screenplay. The beginning of the film feels predictable. The first 15 minutes follow a pattern that experienced thriller audiences can easily guess, which reduces the suspense early on.
"DNA" is a 2025 Tamil-language action thriller directed by Nelson Venkatesan and co-written with Athisha Vino. Produced by Olympia Movies, the film brings a unique and emotional storyline to life, combining themes of mental health, motherhood, and crime. Featuring Atharvaa and Nimisha Sajayan in lead roles, the film explores the sensitive and terrifying subject of child switching and infant trafficking. With its gripping plot and powerful performances, "DNA" has made a strong impression on the Tamil film industry this year.
- One of the strongest points of DNA is its bold storyline. It touches on rarely discussed issues such as postpartum mental illness and the horrifying reality of infant trafficking. The courage to build an entire film around such a theme deserves appreciation.
The story follows Divya, a new mother who is struggling with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Shortly after giving birth, she becomes convinced that her baby has been switched with another. While her claims are dismissed by those around her as symptoms of her mental illness, Divya’s husband Anand, a reformed alcoholic and former addict, takes her fears seriously.
Determined to uncover the truth, Anand begins a desperate search for their real child. What follows is a tense and emotional journey into the dark underbelly of infant trafficking—a world where newborns are bought, sold, and traded in both legal and illegal ways. As the couple navigates this dangerous web, the line between truth and imagination becomes blurred, keeping the audience guessing until the very end.
The film features a strong cast who deliver emotional and intense performances:
- Atharvaa as Anand, the determined father
- Nimisha Sajayan as Divya, the mentally fragile but sharp mother
- Ramesh Thilak as Venkat
- Balaji Sakthivel as Chinnasamy, the sub-inspector
- Viji Chandrasekhar as Divya’s mother
Supporting roles by Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Riythvika, Karunakaran, and others help round out the narrative with depth and emotion.
One of the strongest points of DNA is its bold storyline. It touches on rarely discussed issues such as postpartum mental illness and the horrifying reality of infant trafficking. The courage to build an entire film around such a theme deserves appreciation. The emotional depth, especially from Nimisha Sajayan, makes the film stand out. Her portrayal of a vulnerable yet determined mother is incredibly believable and touching. Atharvaa, too, shines in his role. Though he has taken on similar roles in the past, his performance here is more mature and impactful.
02.The film becomes especially engaging in the second half, where the story gains speed and the real thriller element kicks in. The climax is emotional and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression. Many viewers will find themselves emotionally moved by the pain and determination of the central characters.
Technically, the movie also succeeds in parts. The cinematography captures the tension and emotion of each scene, and the music supports the mood without being overwhelming.
The decision to show the villain not as entirely heartless, but as a more realistic character, also adds a fresh perspective.
While the movie has many strengths, there are some weak points, especially in the screenplay. The beginning of the film feels predictable. The first 15 minutes follow a pattern that experienced thriller audiences can easily guess, which reduces the suspense early on. The following 30 minutes are spent on an unnecessary subplot involving Anand’s ex-girlfriend, which doesn’t contribute meaningfully to the main story. This section feels like filler and slows down the film’s momentum.
03.Another downside is the inclusion of typical commercial elements like fight scenes and heroic stunts. These scenes feel out of place in an otherwise sensitive and serious storyline. The overuse of such tropes weakens the emotional power of the story. If the film had focused more on building up the psychological and crime-thriller elements instead of trying to add mass appeal, it could have reached a higher level of storytelling.
Also, the lack of sequencing in certain parts, especially towards the end of the first half, makes it confusing to follow. With tighter editing and a sharper focus on the core plot, the film could have been even more impactful.
DNA is a brave and important film that sheds light on real and painful issues in society. Despite a few screenplay hiccups and commercial distractions, the emotional core of the movie remains strong. With powerful performances, especially from Nimisha Sajayan and Atharvaa, the film offers an intense cinematic experience. It manages to deliver both drama and suspense while leaving the audience with something to think about.
For viewers who enjoy thrillers with a strong emotional and social message, DNA is definitely worth watching. It might not be perfect, but it dares to be different, and that alone makes it stand out in today’s movie landscape.
