Aaytha Ezhuthu(2004)
Aaytha Ezhuthu is a 2004 Indian Tamil-language political action film directed by Mani Ratnam. The ensemble cast includes Suriya, Madhavan, Siddharth, Meera Jasmine, Trisha Krishnan, and Esha Deol. The story follows three men from different backgrounds whose lives intersect after a shooting on Napier Bridge in Chennai. The film is loosely inspired by the life of student activist George Reddy. It was noted for its hyperlink narrative structure and was simultaneously shot in Hindi as Yuva. The soundtrack was composed by A.R. Rahman. The film received positive reviews and has gained a cult following over the years. It was released on May 21, 2004.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 21 May 2004
- Director
- Mani Ratnam
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 40m
- Rating
- 7.2/10
Storyline
Three strangers — a student activist, a gangster, and a rich college boy — are connected by a single gunshot on a bridge. Their choices and fates collide in unexpected ways. The film follows each man's journey as they face love, violence, and the chance to change their lives.
“One moment. Three lives. Forever changed.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Aaytha Ezhuthu
Cast reunions in this film: Mani Ratnam & A. R. Rahman (20 films together), A. R. Rahman & Ravi K. Chandran (8 films together), Trisha Krishnan & A. R. Rahman (5 films together), R. Madhavan & A. R. Rahman (5 films together), Suriya & Trisha Krishnan (3 films together), and Suriya & Sriman (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film is a remake of Mani Ratnam's own earlier Telugu film 'Yuva', which was shot simultaneously with the same script.
- Suriya's character Michael Vasanth was originally offered to actor Madhavan, who had to decline due to scheduling conflicts.
- The film's title 'Aayitha Ezhuthu' translates to 'The Sixth Letter' in Tamil, referring to the letter 'ஊ' in the Tamil alphabet.
- Composer A.R. Rahman reused the song 'Hey Goodbye Nanba' from his earlier unreleased project 'Raja Rani' for this film.
- The bridge scene that connects the three stories was filmed at the Napier Bridge in Chennai, a popular filming location.
- Despite starring major actors like Suriya, Madhavan, and Siddharth, the film underperformed at the Tamil box office upon release.
- Mani Ratnam shot the climax sequence involving the bus in a single, continuous long take to increase tension and realism.