Abishan Jeevinth’s moving directorial debut resonates with audiences, becoming 2025’s surprise Tamil blockbuster.
May 25, 2025: Abishan Jeevinth’s debut film Tourist Family has emerged as a breakout hit of 2025, crossing the impressive ₹75 crore mark at the global box office. Released on May 1, the Tamil drama has captivated audiences and critics alike, cementing its place as one of the year’s standout films.
A Poignant Tale of Survival
Set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s post-Covid economic crisis, Tourist Family chronicles the journey of a Tamil family forced to migrate to Tamil Nadu. The narrative beautifully captures themes of displacement, dignity, and communal resilience, weaving a story that resonates with the struggles of real-world refugees.
Stellar Performances Drive Success
Led by Sasikumar and Simran, the film’s performances have struck a chord with viewers across urban and rural centres. Yogi Babu, Mithun Jai Sankar, Kamalesh, MS Bhaskar, Ramesh Thilak, Bagavathi Perumal, Elango Kumaravel, and Sreeja Ravi round out a talented supporting cast that brings authenticity and emotional weight to the immigrant community they portray.
A Word-of-Mouth Sensation
Tourist Family’s success has been amplified by strong word-of-mouth and support from industry legends. Superstar Rajinikanth personally called director Jeevinth to laud his sensitive portrayal of the migrant experience. Dhanush, Sivakarthikeyan, and SS Rajamouli also took to social media to share their admiration, further fuelling the film’s momentum.
Behind-the-Scenes Brilliance
Produced by Pasilian Nazareth, Magesh Raj Pasilian, and Yuvaraj Ganesan under the Million Dollar Studios and MRP Entertainment banners, Tourist Family benefits from a dedicated technical crew. Sean Roldan’s evocative music score, Aravind Viswanathan’s raw yet graceful cinematography, Barath Vikraman’s precise editing, and Raj Kamal’s art direction work in harmony to craft a cinematic experience that feels both urgent and timeless.
Lyricist Mohan Rajan’s poetic contributions to the soundtrack have also been singled out for praise.
What’s Next?
With digital streaming rights already in negotiation, Tourist Family is poised to extend its reach beyond theatres. More than just a commercial success, the film has become a cultural touchstone — an ode to survival and the enduring strength of family.
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