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Nizhalgal(1980)

8.5/10
Tamil117 mins

Nizhalgal (1980) is a 117-minute Tamil film directed by Bharathiraja. Starring Ravi, B. Kannan and Nizhalgal Ravi. With an audience rating of 8.5/10, Nizhalgal stands as one of the notable Tamil releases of 1980.

Director:Bharathiraja
Mood:
emotionalinspiringdark
Where to watch:
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Quick Facts

Theatrical Release
6 November 1980
Director
Bharathiraja
Language
Tamil
Runtime
1h 57m
GudVibe Rating
8.5/10

Storyline

Three young friends struggle with unemployment and poverty, but they refuse to give up on their dreams. They ignore their parents' advice to take any available job, choosing to keep pushing forward instead. Their story reflects the challenges faced by many hopeful young people.

Three friends. No jobs. Unbreakable dreams.

Film Details

8.5Rating
117Minutes
TamilLanguage
UCertificate
Release Date6 November 1980
Release Typetheatrical

Parental Guide

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

Vibe & Tags

Mood
emotionalinspiringdark
Themes
survivalidentityfriendshipfamily
Tonegritty
Pacingslow-burn
Complexitymoderate
Audiencearthouse
Best Withwith-partner
Violence2
Emotion4
Humor2
Rewatchability3

Reviews & Ratings

Your Rating
8.5/10Rating

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Cast & Crew

Trivia

  • The film's title 'Nizhalgal' means 'shadows' in Tamil, reflecting the unseen struggles of common youth.
  • This was the debut film for actor-director R. Sundarrajan, who played one of the three main friends.
  • Director Bharathiraja cast many fresh, unfamiliar faces to emphasize the theme of raw, real-life struggle.
  • The song 'Senthamizh Naadu' became an anthem for Tamil pride and is still remembered for its powerful lyrics.
  • Cinematographer P. S. Nivas used natural lighting and real locations to create a gritty, realistic feel.
  • The film's focus on unemployed youth resonated deeply during a period of economic hardship in Tamil Nadu.
  • Despite its serious theme, the movie included humorous scenes to balance the narrative and connect with audiences.

Notable Collaborations

Frequent partnerships reunited in Nizhalgal

Music Composer-Money Lender59 films
Director-Director of Photography17 films
Director-Money Lender11 films
Music Composer-Director of Photography9 films
Money Lender-Director of Photography9 films
Mani-Director of Photography6 films
Music Composer-Gopi's father5 films
Gopi-Director of Photography3 films
Money Lender-Gopi's father3 films

Frequently Asked Questions