Thirunelveli(2000)
Thirunelveli (2000) is a Tamil-language drama film directed by Bharathi Kannan. The film stars Prabhu as Thulasi, a wealthy landlord, with Roja, Karan, Udhaya, and Sithara in supporting roles. The story follows Thulasi, a man known for never telling a lie, who is forced to choose between his principles and saving his niece's life. Set in the rural town of Thirunelveli, the film explores themes of honesty, family loyalty, and sacrifice. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, featuring songs like 'Ini Naalum Thirunaal' and 'Yele Azhagamma'. The film received mixed reviews but was noted for Prabhu's sensitive performance and the emotional climax. It was released on January 15, 2000.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 14 January 2000
- Director
- Bharathi Kannan
- Language
- Tamil
- Rating
- 6.8/10
Storyline
Thulasi is a respected landlord who has never told a lie in his life. When his niece falls in love with a poor driver, his brother threatens to kill the couple. Thulasi must hide the lovers and face the hardest choice of his life: break his rule of honesty or let them die.
“One lie. One life. One sacrifice.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Thirunelveli
Cast reunions in this film: Prabhu & Ilayaraja (60 films together), Ilayaraja & Manorama (60 films together), Ilayaraja & S. S. Chandran (24 films together), Vivek & Ilayaraja (16 films together), Prabhu & Manorama (15 films together), and Ponnambalam & Ilayaraja (14 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Thulasi' after the protagonist, but was changed to 'Thirunelveli' to better reflect its strong regional setting.
- Actor Vijayakanth, known for his action roles, was initially considered for the lead before Karthik was cast.
- The movie's climax, involving a courtroom drama, was shot in a single, specially constructed set over several days.
- Director Bharathi Kannan drew inspiration from real-life village disputes he had heard about in the Tirunelveli district.
- The film's soundtrack by Deva was a moderate success, but the song 'Kadhal Vandhuchu' gained particular popularity on radio.
- Despite its rural drama theme, the film had a limited theatrical run compared to the big commercial films of that year.
- The role of the honest protagonist was a deliberate departure from Karthik's more common romantic hero image at the time.