Kuruthipunal(1995)
'Kuruthipunal' (transl. River of Blood) is a 1995 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film directed and filmed by P.C. Sreeram, and co-produced and written by Kamal Haasan. The film stars Kamal Haasan, Arjun Sarja, Nassar, Gautami, and Geetha. It revolves around two police officers, Adhi Narayanan and Abbas, who battle a Naxalite-led terrorist group headed by Badri. The story follows Adhi's moral collapse when terrorists threaten his family, forcing him to betray his partner and his duty. The film was the first Indian production to use Dolby Stereo Surround SR technology. It was India's official entry for the 68th Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film. 'Kuruthipunal' won the Cinema Express Award for Best Film – Tamil, and Kamal Haasan won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil. It was released on Diwali day, 23 October 1995.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 23 October 1995
- Director
- P. C. Sreeram
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 22m
- Rating
- 5.2/10
Storyline
Police officer Adhi Narayanan is fighting a brutal war against a terrorist group led by the ruthless Badri. When Badri threatens to kill Adhi's wife and son, Adhi is forced to betray his partner and become a spy for the terrorists. He must find a way to stop Badri without losing his family or his soul.
“The river of blood runs deep.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kuruthipunal
Cast reunions in this film: Nassar & Kamal Haasan (17 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Nassar (11 films together), Nassar & Gouthami (10 films together), Nassar & P. C. Sreeram (8 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Gouthami (7 films together), and Nassar & Arjun (7 films together).
Trivia
- The film is a remake of the Hindi movie 'Drohkaal', which was also remade in Telugu as 'Vijaypath'.
- It was the first Tamil film to be shot entirely in sync sound, meaning the actors' voices were recorded live on set.
- The movie's title 'Kuruthipunal' translates to 'River of Blood', symbolizing the violence and sacrifices in the story.
- Actor Arjun, who played the lead, performed many of his own stunts, including a risky chase sequence on a moving train.
- The film's climax was shot in a real abandoned factory to create a more authentic and gritty atmosphere.
- Despite critical acclaim, the movie had a moderate box office run but later gained a strong cult following on television.
- Director P. C. Sreeram, known as a top cinematographer, made his directorial debut with this film.