Aai(2004)
Aai is a 2004 Indian Tamil-language action film directed by A. Venkatesh. The film stars Sarathkumar in the lead role, with Namitha, Vadivelu, and Kalabhavan Mani in supporting roles. The story follows a powerful Chennai gangster who wants to leave his criminal life to protect his young son. His rival kidnaps the boy, triggering a violent war. The film is known for its high-octane action sequences and emotional father-son bond. It was produced by K. Parthiban under the banner Thiruvalluvar Kalaikoodam. The runtime is 2 hours and 42 minutes.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- AYYO, Tarang Plus, Sun NXT, Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play, JioTV
- Theatrical Release
- 17 December 2004
- Director
- A. Venkatesh
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 42m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
Aai is a feared gangster in Chennai. He wants to leave his violent past behind for his son. But his rival Bhavani kidnaps the boy. Aai must fight through the underworld to save his family. The film is a raw action drama about a father's love.
“A father's love is the deadliest weapon”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Aai
Cast reunions in this film: Vadivelu & Thalaivasal Vijay (15 films together), Vadivelu & Ilavarasu (11 films together), Sarath Kumar & Vadivelu (10 films together), Vadivelu & Livingston (10 films together), Vadivelu & Namitha (8 films together), and Vadivelu & Crane Manohar (8 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Aai' is a Tamil word meaning 'mother', but the story does not revolve around a mother character, making the title unusual for its plot.
- Actor Sarath Kumar performed his own stunts in several action sequences, as he was known for doing physical roles without a stunt double.
- Comedian Vadivelu's role was written specifically for him, and his comedy tracks were largely improvised during filming.
- The movie was shot extensively in Palani, a famous temple town in Tamil Nadu, which is also a key location in the story.
- Director A. Venkatesh primarily worked on comedy and family dramas, making this action-oriented film a slight departure from his usual style.
- The film's soundtrack was composed by Srikanth Deva, who was early in his career and experimented with mixing folk and fast-paced beats.
- Despite featuring popular stars, the film had a modest box office run and is less remembered compared to other Sarath Kumar films from that period.