Metti(1982)
Metti is a 1982 Indian Tamil-language drama film written and directed by Mahendran. It stars Sarath Babu, C. R. Vijayakumari, Radhika, Vadivukkarasi, and Rajesh. The story follows Pattabhi, who returns to his estranged mother and half-sisters to atone for his father's sins. The family struggles with societal shame, a mother's suicide, and abusive relationships. The film is based on Mahendran's own novel serialized in the magazine Chaavi. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of women and family dynamics. In 2013, News18 included Metti in its list of the 100 greatest Indian films of all time. The film was released on 14 January 1982.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1982
- Director
- J. Mahendran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 1m
- Rating
- 7.4/10
Storyline
A young man named Pattabhi returns to his mother and sisters after years of separation. He wants to make up for his father's mistakes. But the family is haunted by shame and tragedy. His mother commits suicide. His sisters face abusive relationships. Pattabhi must decide how far he will go to save them.
“A toe ring that binds a family”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Metti
Cast reunions in this film: Raadhika Sarathkumar & Ilayaraja (44 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Ilayaraja (42 films together), Ilayaraja & Senthamarai (23 films together), Ilayaraja & Rajesh (16 films together), Ilayaraja & Sarath Babu (16 films together), and Ilayaraja & J. Mahendran (12 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Metti' refers to the toe rings worn by married women in Tamil culture, symbolising the protagonist's focus on marriage.
- Director J. Mahendran was known for his realistic films, but 'Metti' was a rare commercial attempt with family melodrama.
- The movie features veteran actor Sivakumar in the lead role, playing a character much older than his actual age at the time.
- It was released the same year as the iconic 'Moondram Pirai', which overshadowed many other 1982 Tamil films.
- The story revolves around the dowry system and family separation, common social issues in early 80s Tamil cinema.
- Composer Ilaiyaraaja did not score this film; the music was by Shankar–Ganesh, a popular duo for mass entertainers.
- Despite its stars, the film is not frequently cited among the major works of its director or lead actor today.