Exploring the Dark Mind of 'Stephen': A New Tamil Thriller on Netflix

The new Tamil thriller 'Stephen' on Netflix presents a chilling narrative as a man confesses to multiple murders. With a troubled past and a complex character, the film explores themes of deception and psychological turmoil. Directed by Mithun Balaji, this gripping tale features standout performances and a unique storytelling style. However, viewers may find some aspects lacking in depth. Discover the intricacies of this psychological drama and watch the official trailer to get a glimpse of the suspenseful journey ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 14:08 IST

A Gripping Confession

Dressed in a T-shirt emblazoned with 'Never Lie', Stephen enters a police station to admit to the murder of nine women. However, Officer Michael (Michael Thangadurai) remains skeptical of his confession. Psychiatrist Seema (Smruthi Venkat) also questions whether Stephen (Gomathi Shankar) is truly a serial killer or merely fabricating stories.

A Troubled Past

Through his sessions with Seema, Stephen reveals a deeply troubled upbringing. His parents, portrayed by Kuberan and Vijayshree, embody the archetype of abusive guardians who create their own monsters. Meanwhile, Michael investigates Stephen's girlfriend (Shrisha) and searches for the missing victims.

A Unique Cinematic Experience

Stephen is now available on Netflix. This Tamil thriller marks the directorial debut of Mithun Balaji, who co-wrote the film with Gomathi Shankar, who also stars in the lead role. The narrative presents the chilling actions of a killer as a psychological game, utilizing split screens and unreliable narratives throughout its 123-minute runtime.

Viewer Expectations

Fans of similar films will find themselves familiar with the themes presented. However, the film's attempts to build suspense may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied, particularly due to its lack of depth in exploring the psychological aspects of its characters.

Plot Holes and Character Depth

The police investigation contains notable gaps, seemingly designed to pave the way for a sequel. The film's tension is undermined by a lack of urgency in locating the bodies that could either validate or contradict Stephen's claims. The standout performances come from the parents, especially Vijayshree as Stephen's mother, who leaves a lasting impression.

A Complex Character

Gomathi Shankar portrays a complex misogynist, concealing a troubled past. While the film's stylistic choices are engaging, they do not fully justify a deep investment in Stephen's narrative.