Red(2002)
Red is a 2002 Indian Tamil-language action film directed by Singampuli and produced by S. S. Chakravarthy. The film stars Ajith Kumar as Aathi, a gangster known as RED, alongside Priya Gill, Manivannan, Raghuvaran, and Salim Ghouse. Set in Madurai, the story follows a violent don who secretly funds education for poor children while battling a rival gangster named Srini. A magazine serial about his life turns him into a local hero but also exposes his secrets. The film features music composed by Deva with lyrics by Vairamuthu. Principal photography took place in Chennai, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and Madurai, with songs filmed overseas. Red released on 14 January 2002 and received mixed reviews from critics who praised Ajith's performance but criticized the predictable plot.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Disney+ Hotstar, Sun NXT, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 14 January 2002
- Director
- Ram Sathya
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 35m
- Rating
- 4.4/10
Storyline
Aathi is a feared gangster in Madurai who secretly uses his power to help poor children get education. He falls in love with Gayathri but she wants him to leave his violent life. His rival Srini wants to destroy him. A magazine story about his life makes things worse and puts everyone he loves in danger.
“Revolution. Education. Development.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Red
Cast reunions in this film: Ajith Kumar & Deva (12 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Red' to match the lead character's name, but it was also promoted with the tagline 'The Colour of Blood' in some regions.
- Director Singampuli, known mostly as a comedian, made his directorial debut with this film and also played a supporting role.
- The movie's soundtrack by Vidyasagar became popular, especially the song 'Kadhal Vandhale' which was shot in Mauritius.
- Actor Jeevan, who played the antagonist Seeni, was primarily a comedian at the time and this role marked a shift to negative characters.
- The film's plot involving a magazine serializing a don's story was inspired by real-life media coverage of local gangsters in Chennai.
- Red was one of the early Tamil films to be shot extensively in Mauritius, capitalizing on its scenic locations for romantic sequences.
- Despite mixed reviews, the film developed a cult following over the years for its blend of action and emotional drama.