Samurai(2002)
Samurai is a 2002 Indian Tamil-language vigilante action thriller film. It was written and directed by Balaji Sakthivel in his directorial debut. The film stars Vikram as Thiyagu, a medical student who becomes a masked vigilante. Anita Hassanandani, Jaya Seal, and Nassar play supporting roles. The story follows Thiyagu as he kidnaps corrupt politicians and officials who use legal loopholes to avoid punishment. The film explores themes of justice, corruption, and public anger. Cinematography was by Sethu Sriram, and music was composed by Harris Jayaraj. The film was shot in multiple locations across India and Syria. It received mixed reviews from critics, who praised Vikram's performance but found the plot familiar. The director later admitted to errors in the screenplay. The film was dubbed into Telugu under the same name.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Disney+ Hotstar, Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 12 July 2002
- Director
- Balaji Sakthivel
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 30m
- Rating
- 5.4/10
Storyline
A medical student named Thiyagu forms a masked gang to kidnap corrupt politicians and officials. These criminals use legal loopholes to escape prison. Thiyagu demands that they face capital punishment. A honest police officer tries to stop him. But Thiyagu's actions inspire the public to take justice into their own hands.
“When the law fails, one man rises”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Samurai
Cast reunions in this film: Vikram & Harris Jayaraj (6 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Samurai' was chosen to symbolize the masked gang's code of honor, similar to Japanese warriors.
- Director Balaji Sakthivel made his directorial debut with this film after working as an assistant director.
- The movie was shot in and around Chennai, with key scenes filmed in real hospital locations to add authenticity.
- Actor Vikram, who plays Thiyagu, performed many of his own stunts without a body double.
- The film's climax involved a complex chase sequence that took over a week to shoot.
- Despite being an action film, it included social commentary on corruption, which was uncommon at the time.
- The soundtrack by Yuvan Shankar Raja featured a mix of rock and classical elements, gaining a cult following.