Pithamagan(2003)
Pithamagan is a 2003 Tamil-language action crime drama film written and directed by Bala. The lead cast includes Vikram as Chithan, Suriya as Sakthi, Laila as Manju, and Sangeetha as Gomathi. The story follows Chithan, a man raised in a cemetery, who forms a deep friendship with a conman named Sakthi after meeting in prison. Their bond transforms Chithan from a feral creature into someone capable of love and emotion. The film is noted for Vikram's near-silent performance, speaking only three words throughout its runtime. It received critical acclaim and won multiple Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, including Best Actor for Vikram. The film was released on October 24, 2003, and has since become a cult classic in Indian cinema.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Sun NXT, Hungama, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 24 October 2003
- Director
- Bala
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 19m
- Rating
- 7.8/10
Storyline
A man who grew up alone in a cemetery is forced into the outside world. He cannot speak, read, or understand human society. After being arrested for working on a cannabis farm, he meets a charming conman in prison. Their friendship changes his life forever. But when his friend is murdered, he unleashes a brutal revenge that destroys everyone in his path.
“Born in death, living for revenge”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pithamagan
Cast reunions in this film: Manobala & Rajendran (28 films together), Manobala & Ilayaraja (12 films together), Karunas & Manobala (9 films together), Vikram & Ilayaraja (8 films together), Manobala & T. P. Gajendran (6 films together), and T. P. Gajendran & Ilayaraja (6 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Pithamagan' translates to 'son of a graveyard', directly reflecting the protagonist's upbringing.
- Vikram, who played the lead, reportedly lived in isolation for days to get into his character's mindset.
- The movie was shot in real cemeteries and remote villages to create an authentic, gritty atmosphere.
- Surya's role as a small-time drug dealer was a last-minute casting decision and became a fan favorite.
- It was one of the few Tamil films at the time to win both National Awards for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor.
- The director Bala is known for dark themes, and this was his first film to become a commercial success.
- A.R. Rahman composed the background score but could not work on the songs due to scheduling conflicts.