Connect (2022) is a Tamil-language supernatural horror film directed by Ashwin Saravanan, known for his previous works Maya and Game Over. The narrative unfolds during the COVID-19 lockdown, focusing on Susan (Nayanthara), a mother grappling with the sudden loss of her husband, Dr. Joseph Benoy (Vinay Rai), a frontline worker who succumbs to the virus. Left to navigate this tragedy with her daughter, Anna (Haniya Nafisa), Susan’s world unravels further when Anna, in her grief, attempts to contact her deceased father through a séance. This act inadvertently invites a malevolent spirit into their home, leading to a series of disturbing events. The film’s unique storytelling is enhanced by its setting—a confined space where interactions occur via digital screens, reflecting the isolation of the pandemic era.

The film’s strength lies in its atmospheric tension and innovative cinematography. Utilizing close-up shots and first-person perspectives, the director immerses the audience in the family’s harrowing experience. The sound design and lighting further amplify the sense of dread. Performances are commendable, with Nayanthara delivering a nuanced portrayal of a mother in distress, while Haniya Nafisa impresses as the possessed daughter. Despite its technical prowess, Connect has received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its fresh approach to the horror genre, while others feel it falls into familiar tropes. Nonetheless, it stands out as a poignant exploration of grief and the supernatural during an unprecedented global crisis.