Pagal Nilavu(1985)
Pagal Nilavu is a 1985 Indian Tamil-language gangster film written and directed by Mani Ratnam. It stars Murali, Revathi, Sarath Babu, and Sathyaraj in lead roles. The story follows Selvam, a carefree youth who joins a mafia don's gang out of gratitude after the don saves his mother's life. Complications arise when Selvam falls in love with Jyothi, the sister of an honest police inspector. The film is set in the coastal town of Muttam, Kanyakumari. Ilaiyaraaja composed the acclaimed soundtrack and score. Cinematography was handled by Ramachandra Babu. The film was released on 28 June 1985 and was unsuccessful at the box office. It is notable as Mani Ratnam's first Tamil film and a precursor to his later gangster dramas.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 5 June 1985
- Director
- Mani Ratnam
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 15m
- Rating
- 3.8/10
Storyline
An aimless young man named Selvam joins a powerful gangster's crew after the gangster saves his mother's life. Selvam becomes the gangster's most loyal henchman. But everything changes when Selvam falls in love with Jyothi, the sister of a new police inspector who is determined to destroy the gang. Selvam must choose between his debt of loyalty and his love.
“When the moon shines at noon”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pagal Nilavu
Cast reunions in this film: Goundamani & Ilayaraja (75 films together), Sathyaraj & Ilayaraja (53 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Ilayaraja (34 films together), Ilayaraja & Revathi (32 films together), Sathyaraj & Goundamani (31 films together), and Ilayaraja & Murali (22 films together).
Trivia
- This was Mani Ratnam's first film with composer Ilaiyaraaja, starting a legendary partnership.
- The film's title 'Pagal Nilavu' translates to 'Midday Sun', symbolising intense, exposed emotions.
- Actor Murali, who played the lead, was primarily known as a theatre artist before this film.
- The movie was shot in and around Madras (now Chennai), capturing the city's 1980s urban landscape.
- It was one of the earliest Tamil films to blend a romantic storyline with gritty gangster drama elements.
- The climax scene involving a car was noted for its realistic staging compared to typical films of that era.
- Despite a strong cast, the film had a moderate box office run but later gained appreciation for its craft.