Athma(1993)
Athma (English: Soul) is a 1993 Tamil supernatural film directed by Prathap K. Pothan. The film features Ramki, Rahman, Nassar, Gouthami and Kasthuri in lead roles. The film, produced by Ajitha Hari, had musical score by Ilaiyaraaja and was released on 30 July 1993 to positive reviews.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 30 July 1993
- Director
- Prathap K. Pothan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
An atheist archaeologist investigates his father's disappearance in a remote village and uncovers a prophecy about a healing waterfall. News of the cure draws a desperate crowd, including his friend who hopes it will save her dying husband. Meanwhile, a terrorist group targets the temple, setting off a tense race against time.
“A prophecy promises miracles, but unleashes a deadly race.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Athma
Cast reunions in this film: Senthil & Ilayaraja (72 films together), Ilayaraja & Gouthami (22 films together), Ramki & Ilayaraja (15 films together), Ramki & Senthil (13 films together), Rahman & Ilayaraja (12 films together), and Prathap K. Pothan & Ilayaraja (12 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Aathma Bandham' but was shortened to 'Aathma' upon release.
- Director Prathap Pothan is better known for acclaimed art-house films, making this action-thriller a rare genre departure.
- Actor Nassar, who plays the terrorist leader Saravanan, was also a popular villain in many Tamil films of the early 90s.
- The movie's plot involving a mystical waterfall cure drew comparisons to real-life faith healing practices in some rural Tamil Nadu temples.
- The soundtrack by composer Ilaiyaraaja includes a rare fusion track blending traditional folk rhythms with synth elements for the thriller sequences.
- Despite its star cast, the film had a modest theatrical run and is seldom discussed in mainstream retrospectives of 90s Tamil cinema.
- A key action sequence involving the temple's destruction used miniature models and practical effects, as digital CGI was not common then.