DNA, directed by Nelson Venkatesan, is a gritty Tamil action-thriller that explores the dangerous interplay between crime, genetics, and family secrets. With Atharvaa Murali in the lead, the film promises high-octane sequences, emotional depth, and a gripping narrative that delves into identity and legacy.
Series Metadata
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
**OTT Platform** | JioCinema / Disney+ JioHotstar |
**OTT Release Date** | July 19, 2025 |
**Format** | Movie |
**Number of Episodes** | 1 (Standalone Feature Film) |
**Languages Available** | Tamil (original); dubbed in Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada |
**Age Rating** | U/A – Suitable for 16+ (Violence, crime themes, mild language) |
**Duration** | Approx. 147 mins |
**Director** | Nelson Venkatesan |
**Genre** | Action Thriller |
**Audio/Video** | 4K UHD, Dolby Digital |
Storyline
Set against a dark urban backdrop, DNA follows Arjun (Atharvaa Murali), a forensic genetics expert who becomes entangled in a series of mysterious murders connected by a cryptic DNA strand. As Arjun delves deeper, he uncovers secrets buried within his own family lineage, forcing him to confront past traumas while racing against time to stop a killer using science as a weapon.
Cast Highlights
- Atharvaa Murali as Arjun
- Sarath Kumar as DCP Ravichandran
- Smruthi Venkat as Divya
- Jayaprakash, Mime Gopi, and Suresh Chakravarthy in key roles
- Director: Nelson Venkatesan
- Music: Sam C.S.
- Cinematography: Dinesh Krishnan
- Editing: R. Nirmal
Reviews & Reception
Critical Acclaim
- Behindwoods: “A smart, intense thriller that doesn't dumb down its science.”
- Cinema Vikatan: “Atharvaa delivers a career-best in this DNA-driven thriller.”
- Film Companion South: “Emotion meets intellect in Nelson’s tight narrative.”
Audience Feedback
- Strong praise for Atharvaa’s matured performance
- Appreciation for the realistic science elements in the plot
- Some viewers felt the second act dragged, but climax was highly praised
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10 (early reviews)
Box Office & Streaming Success
Released theatrically on July 5, 2025, DNA had a modest box office run but gained momentum through word-of-mouth. The OTT premiere on JioCinema/Disney+ JioHotstar on July 19, 2025, led to a surge in views, especially among thriller fans and tech-savvy audiences.
Why Watch DNA?
- Smartly written thriller based on real scientific concepts
- Atharvaa Murali’s most intense role yet
- A rare Tamil film combining crime, genetics, and emotional family drama
- Strong visuals and gripping score by Sam C.S.
Final Verdict
DNA is a sharp, high-concept Tamil thriller that doesn’t just thrill—it makes you think. Nelson Venkatesan weaves action and emotion with scientific intrigue, making it one of the must-watch South Indian thrillers of 2025.
Now Streaming on JioCinema / JioHotstar from July 19, 2025