Chinnappadass(1989)
Chinnappadass is a 1989 Indian Tamil-language action drama film directed by C. V. Rajendran, his final directorial work. The film stars Sathyaraj in the title role and Radha in a dual role as Inspector Radha and Dr. Kavitha. The story follows a law professor who is forced into a smuggling gang after losing his job for fighting corrupt politicians. When a woman he loves commits suicide after a rape attempt, he fakes amnesia to infiltrate the criminal network and seek justice. The film is a remake of the 1987 Hindi film Insaaf. Ilaiyaraaja composed the soundtrack. The film was released on 28 July 1989.
Chinnappadass is streaming on Amazon Prime Video (Eros Now) and Airtel Xstream Play (Eros Now).
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video (Eros Now), Airtel Xstream Play (Eros Now), YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1989
- Director
- C. V. Rajendran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 19m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
A law professor loses his job after beating up the sons of corrupt ministers. Forced to join a smuggling gang, he faces more tragedy when a woman he loves dies by suicide. He fakes amnesia to get close to the criminals and bring them to justice.
“Justice has a new name”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Chinnappadass
Cast reunions in this film: Sathyaraj & Ilayaraja (53 films together), Nassar & Ilayaraja (49 films together), Manivannan & Ilayaraja (41 films together), Radha & Ilayaraja (35 films together), Delhi Ganesh & Ilayaraja (33 films together), and Sathyaraj & Manivannan (29 films together).
Trivia
- This film was a rare attempt by director C. V. Rajendran to make a gritty action drama, a departure from his usual family-oriented or comedy films.
- The movie's plot, involving political thugs and revenge, mirrored real-life concerns about corruption and violence in late-1980s Tamil Nadu.
- Actor Sivakumar's son, actor Suriya, was a teenager when this film released and has mentioned watching his father's intense roles from this period.
- The film's title 'Chinnappadass' is an affectionate Tamil term for a younger brother, contrasting with the violent storyline.
- It was one of several late-80s Tamil films that used a revenge-driven narrative to critique the failure of the justice system.
- The movie featured character actor Manorama in a supporting role, showcasing her versatility beyond her famous comedy performances.
- Despite its dramatic plot, the film did not achieve major commercial success, remaining a lesser-known entry in the lead actor's filmography.