Ashoka(2008)
Ashoka is a 2008 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film written and directed by NRI Prem. It stars Prem Menon as the lead, with Anushree, Pooja Bharathi, Raghuvaran, Rajeev, and Anandaraj in supporting roles. The story follows a Black Cat commando chief who protects the Prime Minister of India from a series of terrorist attacks. The film was produced by Prem's wife Indira under Lotus Film Company. It is notable for having no songs or comedy track, a rarity in Tamil cinema of that era. Critical reception was mixed, with praise for Raghuvaran's performance and cinematography, but criticism of the screenplay and pacing. The film was released in theatres in 2008.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 1 February 2008
- Director
- Prem
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 12m
- Rating
- 6.7/10
Storyline
Ashoka is a Black Cat commando chief responsible for the Prime Minister's safety. After a terrorist attack at an airport, the PM survives only because his heart is on the right side. While the PM recovers in hospital, Ashoka must stop repeated assassination attempts and uncover a traitor within his own team.
“One man. One mission. No second chances.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Ashoka
Cast reunions in this film: Livingston & Anandaraj (7 films together), and Anandaraj & Raghuvaran (6 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Asoka' is not related to the historical emperor, but is the protagonist's codename as a bodyguard.
- Director Prem Menon was a former assistant to director S. Shankar before making his directorial debut with this film.
- The movie was shot in just 35 days, which is considered a very short schedule for a Tamil action film.
- Actor Prasanna, known for romantic roles, performed his own stunts for the first time in this film.
- The climax scene involving the Prime Minister's convoy was filmed on the East Coast Road in Chennai, causing temporary traffic disruptions.
- The film's soundtrack by Srikanth Deva includes a rare item number picturized on a foreign model in a temple setting.
- Despite being an action thriller, the movie had a limited theatrical release and directly competed with several big Diwali releases that year.