Uttama Villain(2015)
Uttama Villain is a 2015 Indian Tamil-language comedy drama film directed by Ramesh Aravind and written by Kamal Haasan. The ensemble cast includes Kamal Haasan, K. Balachander, K. Viswanath, Jayaram, Andrea Jeremiah, Pooja Kumar, Nassar, Parvathy Thiruvothu, and Urvashi. The story follows Manoranjan, a superstar actor diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, who decides to make a final film with his estranged mentor. The narrative alternates between his real-life family struggles and a fantasy film about a man who cheats death. The film received positive reviews from critics for its emotional depth and meta-narrative structure. It won multiple awards at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival, including Best Picture and Best Actor. Despite critical acclaim, the film was a box office bomb due to release delays caused by financial disputes between producers. It was released worldwide on 2 May 2015.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- ZEE5, Eros Now, aha, Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 1 May 2015
- Director
- Ramesh Aravind
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 52m
- Rating
- 7.3/10
Storyline
Manoranjan is a beloved movie star who learns he has only a few months to live. Instead of telling his family, he decides to make one last film with his old mentor. The film within the film tells the story of Uttaman, a street performer who keeps cheating death. As Manoranjan's health worsens, he must also repair his broken relationships with his wife, son, and estranged daughter.
“One last act, one final film.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Uttama Villain
Cast reunions in this film: Kamal Haasan & K. Balachander (21 films together), Nassar & Kamal Haasan (17 films together), Nassar & M. S. Bhaskar (15 films together), Nassar & Jayaram (9 films together), Nassar & Urvashi (8 films together), and Nassar & Padmalatha (7 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Uttama Villain' was inspired by a real-life nickname given to Kamal Haasan by his mentor, director K. Balachander.
- The folk tale portions were shot in a distinct sepia tone to visually separate them from the modern-day storyline.
- Director Ramesh Aravind, primarily known as an actor, made his directorial debut in Tamil cinema with this film.
- The movie features a cameo by veteran actor Nagesh, in one of his final film appearances before his passing.
- Kamal Haasan performed a classical dance sequence in the film, a skill he had not showcased on screen in many years.
- The soundtrack includes a rare Carnatic-based song composed by Ilaiyaraaja, titled 'Yaaradi Nee Mohini'.
- A subplot involving a fictional film within the film allowed the makers to parody and pay homage to Tamil cinema tropes.
Frequently Asked Questions
News & Stories
Kamal Haasan starrer Uttama Villain which did not hit the commercial numbers in Kollywood has got new feats now. It has been sent to the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival Awards for bagging presti…
