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Kaathadi official poster

Kaathadi(2018)

6.5/10
Tamil119 minsdirect-to-OTT

Kaathadi is a 2018 Indian Tamil-language action drama film written and directed by Kalyaan in his directorial debut. The film stars Avishek Karthik and Dhansika in lead roles, with Sampath Raj and Lollu Sabha Manohar in supporting parts. The story follows two small-time criminals who kidnap a wealthy family's son for a large ransom, but their plan unravels due to unexpected complications. The film explores themes of poverty, friendship, and maternal courage. It received mixed reviews from critics but was noted for its emotional core and twist-laden narrative. Kaathadi was released in theatres on February 23, 2018, and later became available on digital platforms.

Director:S. Kalyan
Filmed In:Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Mood:
funnysuspensefulemotional

Quick Facts

Streaming on
Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
OTT Release Date
23 February 2018
Theatrical Release
23 February 2018
Director
S. Kalyan
Language
Tamil
Runtime
1h 59m
Rating
6.5/10

Storyline

Two desperate friends kidnap a rich boy for a huge ransom. They think it is an easy way to escape poverty. But the boy's mother is fearless, and the police are closing in. One kidnapper has a secret past with the mother. The plan quickly spirals out of control.

One crime. One mother. No escape.

Film Details

6.5Rating
119Minutes
TamilLanguage
UACertificate
Release Date23 February 2018
Release Typedirect-to-OTT
Also Known AsKathadi
Filmed InChennai, Tamil Nadu

Parental Guide

Violence
Moderate
Language
Low
Sex / Nudity
Mild
Drugs
Mild
Intensity
Moderate

Where to Watch

Vibe & Tags

Mood
funnysuspensefulemotional
Themes
familysurvivalfriendshipcorruption
Tonegritty
Pacingfast-paced
Complexitylight
Audiencemass
Best Withfriends
Violence3
Emotion3
Humor4
Rewatchability3

Cast & Crew

Reunion Meter

Frequent partnerships reunited for Kaathadi

Cast reunions in this film: Manobala & Rajendran (28 films together), Rajendran & John Vijay (10 films together), Manobala & Kaali Venkat (7 films together), John Vijay & Kaali Venkat (6 films together), Manobala & John Vijay (5 films together), and Sampath Raj & Kota Srinivasa Rao (4 films together).

Trivia

  • The film's title 'Kaathadi' refers to a traditional Indian kite, symbolizing the characters' fleeting freedom.
  • Director Kalyaan also composed the film's music, marking one of his rare dual roles in a feature.
  • Actor Mime Gopi, known for villain roles, played a comedic part here, a shift from his usual typecasting.
  • The movie was shot extensively in Chennai's suburban areas to depict a middle-class setting authentically.
  • It had a limited theatrical release, focusing more on digital platforms for wider reach post-cinema run.
  • A chase sequence involving a auto-rickshaw was improvised during filming based on local traffic conditions.
  • The child actor in the film was selected through an audition process that prioritized natural expressions over experience.

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