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Poottadha Poottukal(1980)

Tamil mins

Poottaatha Poottukkal is a 1980 Indian Tamil-language drama film written and directed by Mahendran. It stars Jayan and Charulata in lead roles. The film is an adaptation of Ponneelan's novel Uravugal. It follows a married couple struggling with infertility and the emotional distance that grows between them. The story is set in a small Tamil village where societal pressure adds to their pain. The film features a soundtrack composed by Ilaiyaraaja. It was released on 9 May 1980 and failed at the box office. Critics later praised its honest portrayal of marital issues. The film is available on some streaming platforms.

Director:J. Mahendran
Filmed In:Nagercoil
Mood:
emotionaldarksuspenseful
Where to watch:
OTT availability not confirmed yet. Check Netflix · Prime Video · Hotstar · ZEE5

Quick Facts

Theatrical Release
31 December 1980
Director
J. Mahendran
Language
Tamil
0

Storyline

Uppuli and Kanniyamma are a married couple unable to have a child. Their love fades as Uppuli withdraws into silence. Kanniyamma feels lonely and neglected. A young man named Thyagu gives her the attention she craves. She falls for him, leading to a painful choice that breaks her marriage forever.

When love is not enough

Film Details

Minutes
TamilLanguage
UCertificate
Release Date31 December 1980
Also Known AsPoottadha pootukkal · Pootadha pootukkal
Filmed InNagercoil

Parental Guide

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

Vibe & Tags

Mood
emotionaldarksuspenseful
Themes
lovefamilyidentitycorruption
Toneserious
Pacingslow-burn
Complexitymoderate
Audiencearthouse
Best Withwith-partner
Violence2
Emotion5
Humor1
Rewatchability3

Cast & Crew

Reunion Meter

Frequent partnerships reunited for Poottadha Poottukal

Cast reunions in this film: Ilayaraja & J. Mahendran (12 films together).

Trivia

  • The film's title translates to 'Unblossomed Buds', symbolising the couple's unfulfilled desire for a child.
  • Director J. Mahendran was known for realistic films, and this was one of his few movies focusing on marital issues.
  • Actress Sujatha, who played the wife, was a popular star in Tamil cinema during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
  • The film's music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, who was rising to fame in Tamil cinema at the time.
  • It was released during a period when Tamil films often explored social themes rather than just action or romance.
  • The movie did not achieve major commercial success but is remembered for its sensitive treatment of a delicate subject.

Frequently Asked Questions