The 1990s and 2000s saw a new wave of Tamil cinema, with a focus on contemporary themes, high production values, and innovative storytelling. Directors like Mani Ratnam, A. R. Rahman, and Rajkumar made significant contributions to the industry during this period. Films like "Mouna Ragam" (1997), "Dil Se.." (1998), and "Papanasam" (2015) received critical acclaim and commercial success.