Paattukku Oru Thalaivan(1989)
Paattukku Oru Thalaivan is a 1989 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama film directed by Liaquat Ali Khan. The film stars Vijayakanth and Shobana in lead roles, with M. N. Nambiar, K. R. Vijaya, and Vijayakumar in supporting parts. The story follows Arivu, a village boy who falls in love with Shanthi, the daughter of a powerful M.L.A. When Shanthi denies their love to protect Arivu's father, a chain of tragedy unfolds. The film is notable for its emotional narrative, strong performances, and Ilaiyaraaja's acclaimed soundtrack. It was released on 17 March 1989.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 17 March 1989
- Director
- Liaquat Ali Khan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 14m 0
Storyline
Arivu, a simple village boy, falls in love with Shanthi, the daughter of a cruel M.L.A. When his father proposes marriage, Shanthi denies their love to save the father's life. Heartbroken, Arivu becomes a drunkard. Years later, the truth comes out, but Shanthi is forced to marry another man. Can Arivu save her in time?
“A lie can break a heart.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Paattukku Oru Thalaivan
Cast reunions in this film: Senthil & Ilayaraja (72 films together), Vijayakanth & Ilayaraja (50 films together), Senthil & Vijayakanth (28 films together), Ilayaraja & M. N. Nambiar (25 films together), Ilayaraja & S. S. Chandran (24 films together), and K. R. Vijaya & Ilayaraja (20 films together).
Trivia
- This was the only Tamil film directed by Liaquat Ali Khan, who was primarily known as a producer.
- The film's music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, but it is not one of his widely remembered soundtracks from that era.
- Actor Sathyaraj, who played the lead role, was going through a phase of starring in many revenge-themed dramas during the late 1980s.
- The movie's title translates to 'A Leader for the Song', which is a metaphorical reference to the protagonist's journey.
- Actress Bhanupriya, who played the female lead, was a popular pairing with Sathyaraj in several films around this time.
- The story's conflict based on family honor and humiliation was a common theme in Tamil cinema of the 1980s.
- Despite the dramatic plot, the film did not achieve major commercial success compared to other Sathyaraj films of the period.