Nethiyadi(1988)
Nethiyadi (transl. Bullseye) is a 1989 Indian Tamil-language comedy film written, directed, and scored by Pandiarajan. The film stars Pandiarajan as Venu and Vaishnavi as Banu, with Janagaraj, Senthil, and Shanmugasundari in supporting roles. Amala appears in a guest role as a wealthy woman who aids the protagonist. The story follows a carefree village youth who falls in love with a distant relative, but faces opposition from her money-minded father. He starts a hotel business to prove his worth, but loses everything when the government demolishes it. The film blends humour with social commentary on class and greed. It received positive reviews from critics like Kalki for its comedy. The film was released on 28 April 1989.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Airtel Xstream Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1988
- Director
- Pandiarajan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 13m
- Rating
- 2.9/10
Storyline
A jobless village boy named Venu falls in love with Banu, his distant relative. But Banu's greedy father demands that Venu become rich before marrying her. Venu starts a hotel business with help from a conman. When the hotel is destroyed by the government, Venu loses everything. With help from a rich stranger, he must find a way to win back his love.
“Love hits the bullseye.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Nethiyadi
Cast reunions in this film: Senthil & Manorama (41 films together), Janagaraj & Manorama (18 films together), Amala & Amala Akkineni (17 films together), Senthil & Janagaraj (15 films together), Pandiarajan & Janagaraj (5 films together), and Senthil & Vaishnavi (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film's director Pandiarajan also played a key supporting role, continuing his common practice of acting in his own movies.
- This was one of the few films where comedian Janakaraj played the central protagonist rather than a side character.
- The movie's soundtrack by composer Shankar–Ganesh included a hit song 'Kadhal Oviyam' that became popular on radio.
- A significant portion of the comedy relies on the contrast between the cook's modest household and the rich girl's wealthy family.
- The film was shot in a relatively short schedule, using mostly practical locations in Chennai.
- It released during a crowded festival season and faced competition from several bigger star vehicles.
- The title 'Nethiyadi' is a Tamil word suggesting a clever or timely action, which ties to the son's plan to teach his uncle a lesson.