Sivan(1999)
Sivan is a 1999 Indian Tamil-language science fiction action film written and directed by Velu Prabhakaran. The film stars Arun Pandian in a dual role as ACP Alex and the cyborg Sivan, alongside Napoleon, Radhika, Swathi, and Ahana. The story follows an honest police officer who is murdered by terrorists and later resurrected by scientists as a nearly indestructible cyborg to fight crime. A parallel narrative follows a mechanic seeking revenge for his sister's murder. The film is heavily inspired by the American film RoboCop and is noted for its blend of sci-fi elements with Tamil action cinema tropes. It was released on 26 November 1999 and has since gained a cult following among fans of 90s Tamil cinema.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Airtel Xstream Play, Watcho, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 26 November 1999
- Director
- Velu Prabhakaran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 1h 40m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Honest police officer Alex is brutally killed by a terrorist group. Scientists revive him as Sivan, a powerful cyborg with no memory of his past. As he cleans up the city, a grieving mechanic named Murugan also hunts the same criminals. Their paths collide in a final battle for justice.
“He died a man. He returned a machine.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Sivan
Cast reunions in this film: Napoleon & Adhityan (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was inspired by the 1987 Hollywood movie RoboCop, but set in a Tamil action context.
- Director Velu Prabhakaran was primarily known for his work as a cinematographer; this was his directorial debut.
- The movie's special effects, including Sivan's robotic suit, were considered advanced for low-budget Tamil cinema at the time.
- Actor Vijayakanth was initially considered for the lead role before Arjun was cast as Alex/Sivan.
- The film's climax was shot extensively at a thermal power station to create a gritty, industrial backdrop.
- Despite its sci-fi theme, the soundtrack by Deva featured folk-inspired songs, which was unusual for the genre.
- The movie's title 'Sivan' refers to the Hindu god Shiva, symbolizing destruction and rebirth, mirroring the protagonist's transformation.