Sattam En Kaiyil(1978)
Sattam En Kaiyil is a 1978 Indian Tamil-language action film written, produced, and directed by T. N. Balu. It stars Kamal Haasan in a dual role as twin brothers, alongside Sripriya. The story follows Babu and Rathnam, identical twins separated in childhood, who lead opposite lives until their paths cross. The film explores mistaken identity, family bonds, and redemption. It marked the screen debut of actor Sathyaraj as the villain Vicky. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Sattam En Kaiyil was released on 14 July 1978 and became a box office success, running for over 100 days.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video, MX Player
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1978
- Director
- T. N. Balu
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 7m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
Twin brothers Babu and Rathnam are separated as children. Babu grows up honest and educated. Rathnam becomes a street thief. Their identical faces cause confusion when their girlfriends mistake one for the other. A dangerous gangster pulls them into a violent conflict, forcing the brothers to unite.
“Two faces. One family. One fight.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Sattam En Kaiyil
Cast reunions in this film: Kamal Haasan & Ilayaraja (60 films together), Sathyaraj & Ilayaraja (53 films together), Ilayaraja & Thengai Srinivasan (50 films together), Kamal Haasan & Thengai Srinivasan (23 films together), Sripriya & Kamal Haasan (19 films together), and Sripriya & Ilayaraja (19 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title translates to 'Law in My Hand', reflecting the vigilante justice theme common in 1970s Tamil cinema.
- It was one of the few films where actor Sivakumar played dual roles as twins, a popular trope of the era.
- Director T. N. Balu was primarily known as a producer; this was among his rare directorial ventures.
- The movie featured music by Shankar–Ganesh, a popular composer duo known for their peppy numbers in the 70s and 80s.
- Actress Jayachitra, who played a lead, was a major star at the time, often paired with Sivakumar.
- The plot of separated twins causing romantic confusion was a successful formula, similar to the earlier hit 'Kavikkuyil'.
- The film's release coincided with a wave of action dramas in Tamil cinema focusing on brotherhood and revenge.