Billa(1980)
Billa is a 1980 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film directed by R. Krishnamoorthy. It stars Rajinikanth in a dual role as the gangster David Billa and the lookalike street performer Rajappa. Sripriya plays Radha, a woman seeking revenge for her brother's murder. The film follows DSP Alexander's plan to replace the dead gangster Billa with a simpleton to infiltrate the underworld. It is a remake of the 1978 Hindi film Don written by Salim-Javed. The film was a commercial blockbuster, running for over 25 weeks in theatres. It marked a turning point in Rajinikanth's career, establishing him as a leading star. The soundtrack, composed by M. S. Viswanathan, includes popular songs like 'My Name is Billa' and 'Vethalayai Potendi'. The film was released on 26 January 1980.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video, Hungama Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 26 January 1980
- Director
- R. Krishnamoorthy
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 55m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
A powerful international gangster named David Billa is killed during a police encounter. DSP Alexander hides the body and recruits a poor lookalike named Rajappa to impersonate Billa. Rajappa must infiltrate the gang, find a secret diary, and expose the real crime boss. But when Alexander is killed, Rajappa is trapped between the police and the underworld.
“Two faces. One destiny.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Billa
Cast reunions in this film: M. S. Viswanathan & Manorama (63 films together), M. S. Viswanathan & Thengai Srinivasan (57 films together), M. S. Viswanathan & Major Sundarrajan (54 films together), Thengai Srinivasan & Major Sundarrajan (32 films together), Manorama & Thengai Srinivasan (29 films together), and Manorama & Major Sundarrajan (29 films together).
Trivia
- The film was a remake of the Hindi blockbuster 'Don' (1978), but with significant changes to suit Tamil audiences.
- This was the first Tamil film to be shot extensively in Singapore, giving it a unique international look.
- Actor Rajinikanth was not the first choice for the lead role; the producers initially considered another major star.
- The movie's climax scene was filmed at a real-life five-star hotel in Singapore, which was a rare practice at the time.
- A special fight sequence required a helicopter, which was a novel and expensive stunt for Tamil cinema in 1980.
- The film's success led to the name 'Billa' becoming a popular nickname for stylish, powerful characters in Tamil culture.
- Despite being a remake, the soundtrack by M.S. Viswanathan included original songs that became very popular.