Thennavan(2003)
Thennavan is a 2003 Indian Tamil-language political action film directed by debutant A. M. Nandakumar. The film stars Vijayakanth in the title role as an IAS officer appointed Chief Election Commissioner, alongside Kiran Rathod, Nassar, and Urvasi. The story follows Thennavan as he fights against a corrupt Chief Minister who uses violence and manipulation to win elections. The film was produced by Vijayakanth under Captain Cine Creations and features a soundtrack composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja. Released on India's Independence Day, the film received mixed reviews for its clichéd dialogue and flawed script but was noted for its strong political message about voter power.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Sun NXT, Airtel Xstream Play, Plex
- Theatrical Release
- 15 August 2003
- Director
- Nandakumaran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 26m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
An honest IAS officer named Thennavan is appointed Chief Election Commissioner by the Prime Minister. He proposes five laws to clean up the election system, but a corrupt Chief Minister blocks his plans. Thennavan must find a way to stop the politician from winning through lies and violence.
“One man. One vote. One revolution.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Thennavan
Cast reunions in this film: Vivek & Nassar (23 films together), Nassar & Yuvan Shankar Raja (19 films together), Nassar & Sriman (16 films together), Mansoor Ali Khan & Vijayakanth (10 films together), Ponnambalam & Vijayakanth (10 films together), and Vivek & Yuvan Shankar Raja (9 films together).
Trivia
- The film's director, Nandhakumaran M, was a former assistant to director Mani Ratnam.
- Actor Prashanth, who played Thennavan, performed many of his own action stunts without a body double.
- The movie's plot about election reform was considered unusually bold for mainstream Tamil cinema in 2003.
- The film's climax was shot in a specially constructed large set designed to look like the national parliament.
- Despite its serious political theme, the soundtrack by Deva included a popular romantic song, 'Kannukkul Yetho'.
- The movie did not perform well commercially, which temporarily affected Prashanth's career as a leading actor.
- Actress Laila, the female lead, was reportedly cast partly due to her popularity from the hit song 'Appadi Podu'.