Aghathiyaa (2025) English Subtitle - A Spine-Chilling Period Thriller

Aghathiyaa (2025) English Subtitle - A Spine-Chilling Period Thriller

Aghathiyaa (2025) English Subtitle - Jiiva & Arjun Sarja Shine in This Horror Drama

Aghathiyaa is a gripping Tamil-language historical horror film that seamlessly blends supernatural elements with a rich period backdrop. Written and directed by Pa. Vijay, the film stars Jiiva in a compelling dual role alongside Arjun Sarja and Raashii Khanna, with a stellar supporting cast. Produced by Vels Film International, this long-awaited film was initially shelved in 2020 but finally made its theatrical debut on February 28, 2025.

The story follows Aghathiyan (Jiiva), a struggling art director who, after a failed film project, transforms a colonial bungalow into a haunted attraction with his fiancée, Veena (Raashii Khanna). However, their venture takes a sinister turn when they uncover a skeletal corpse and a mysterious 8mm film roll, revealing the horrors of the past. The film transports viewers back to 1940s French-occupied Pondicherry, where Siddharthan (Arjun Sarja), a skilled Siddha doctor, defies the tyranny of the cruel colonial governor, Edwin Duplex (Edward Sonnenblick).

As eerie occurrences escalate, Veena becomes possessed, triggering a terrifying chain of events. The film masterfully weaves past and present, unveiling dark secrets buried for decades. Aghathiyan’s quest for truth takes him deeper into the mansion’s haunted history, leading to a climactic confrontation with the malevolent spirits of the past.

Analysis and Verdict

With Yuvan Shankar Raja’s haunting score, Deepak Kumar Padhy’s immersive cinematography, and San Lokesh’s sharp editing, Aghathiyaa delivers a visually and emotionally intense horror experience. Jiiva shines in his dual roles, while Arjun Sarja brings gravitas as the compassionate yet rebellious Siddharthan. Raashii Khanna’s transformation from a loving partner to a tormented spirit is particularly commendable.

The film’s strengths lie in its engaging screenplay, period detailing, and atmospheric horror elements. However, some predictable horror tropes and a slightly stretched runtime may test the patience of certain viewers. Nonetheless, Aghathiyaa stands out as an ambitious and spine-chilling addition to Tamil cinema’s horror genre.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

--Aghathiyaa (2025) English Subtitle--