Arul(2004)
Arul is a 2004 Indian Tamil-language action film written and directed by Hari. It stars Vikram as Arul Kumaran, a factory worker, alongside Jyothika as Kanmani. The supporting cast includes Pasupathy as the corrupt MLA Gajapathy, Kollam Thulasi as his brother Sethupathy, and Vadivelu as Thangamani. The story follows Arul, who kills a politician and then becomes a vigilante, fighting crime in Coimbatore while protecting his family from revenge. The film features music by Harris Jayaraj and cinematography by Priyan. It was released on 1 May 2004 and performed above average at the box office. Critics noted its mass entertainer appeal and Vikram's energetic performance.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- VI Movies and TV, Sun NXT, Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 1 May 2004
- Director
- Hari
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 43m
- Rating
- 5.8/10
Storyline
Arul Kumaran, a factory worker, kills a corrupt MLA in a fit of rage. He surrenders but is released. The MLA's brother, a powerful criminal kingmaker, wants revenge. Arul must protect his family and clean the city of crime. A violent cat-and-mouse game begins.
“Grace. Justice. Revenge.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Arul
Cast reunions in this film: Vadivelu & Vinu Chakravarthy (8 films together), Vaiyapuri & Vinu Chakravarthy (7 films together), Hari & Priyan (7 films together), Vadivelu & Pasupathy (6 films together), Vikram & Harris Jayaraj (6 films together), and Vadivelu & Vikram (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Arul' means 'grace' or 'blessing' in Tamil, contrasting with the protagonist's troubled reputation.
- Director Hari is known for action films, making this family drama a rare departure from his usual style.
- Actress Sneha, who played Kanmani, was a last-minute replacement after another actress left the project.
- A key scene involving a temple and a gold ornament was filmed at a real, functioning temple in South India.
- The film's soundtrack by Bharadwaj included a hit romantic duet that gained popularity on radio.
- Despite a strong cast, the movie had a modest box office run compared to Hari's other films at the time.
- The story explores the goldsmith community, a traditional profession not often highlighted in Tamil cinema.