Imsai Arasan 23m Pulikesi(2006)
Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikecei is a 2006 Indian Tamil-language historical comedy film directed by Chimbu Deven in his directorial debut. The film stars Vadivelu in a dual role as twin brothers, alongside Monica, Tejashree, Nassar, Manorama, and Nagesh. Set in the late 18th century during early British rule, the story follows Pulikesi XXIII, a foolish king controlled by his evil uncle, and his long-lost twin Ukraputhan, a revolutionary who fights to free their kingdom. The film blends slapstick comedy with social commentary on issues like child labour, caste divisions, and British exploitation. Produced by S. Shankar under S Pictures, it was the first Tamil historical film in nearly three decades. The movie received positive reviews for its screenplay, performances, and dialogues, and became a box office success. It won two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and one Filmfare Award. The film was released on 8 July 2006.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 8 July 2006
- Director
- Chimbu Deven
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 35m
- Rating
- 8.3/10
Storyline
In 1771, the kingdom of Cholapuram Paalayam is ruled by the foolish King Pulikesi XXIII, who is a puppet of his evil uncle Sangilimayan. Unknown to everyone, Pulikesi has a long-lost twin brother named Ukraputhan, a brave revolutionary who wants to free the kingdom from British control. When Ukraputhan discovers the truth, he switches places with his brother to save the land.
“Two faces, one kingdom, one destiny”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Imsai Arasan 23m Pulikesi
Cast reunions in this film: Vadivelu & Sriman (12 films together), Thambi Ramaiah & Vadivelu (6 films together), Vadivelu & Tejashree (3 films together), and Thambi Ramaiah & Sriman (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title is a parody of the 2005 Tamil film 'Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikecei', swapping the real number '23rd' for the Tamil word for '23rd' ('23am') to enhance the absurdity.
- Director Chimbu Deven, known for serious films, made his directorial debut with this comedy, which was a deliberate and surprising career shift.
- The fictional kingdom's name 'Ukkraputhan' is a playful, nonsensical Tamil word, fitting the film's satirical tone of mocking historical and political tropes.
- Actor Vadivelu, who plays the dual lead roles, reportedly studied the body language and speech patterns of specific politicians for the foolish Pulikesi character.
- The film was shot extensively at the AVM Studios in Chennai, using sets and costumes designed to mimic and mock the aesthetics of big-budget historical dramas.
- Despite being a satire, the film was a major commercial success, running for over 100 days in many theaters across Tamil Nadu.
- The movie includes subtle parodies of specific scenes and dialogue from popular Tamil films of the 1990s and early 2000s, which were recognized by fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
News & Stories
After ‘Puli’, Chimbudevan wanted to come back with a good movie. As we know, Chimbudevan and Vadivelu are getting back together for Imsai Arasan 23aam Pulikesi 2. Shankar's S Pictures will jointly be …
