Guna(1991)
Gunaa is a 1991 Indian Tamil-language psychological romantic drama film directed by Santhana Bharathi and co-written by Sab John. The film stars Kamal Haasan, Rekha, and newcomer Roshini. The story follows Gunaa, a mentally ill asylum inmate who kidnaps a wealthy heiress, believing she is an avatar of the goddess Abhirami whom he is destined to marry. The film was mostly shot around Kodaikanal, including a cave then known as Devil's Kitchen, which later became the popular tourist spot Guna Caves. Gunaa was critically acclaimed for its unique theme and performances, winning a Tamil Nadu State Film Award, a Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil, and two Cinema Express Awards. It had an average box office run but acquired cult status in Tamil cinema and inspired more films about mentally obsessed lovers. The film was released on 5 November 1991, Diwali day.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Aha, Airtel Xstream, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 5 November 1991
- Director
- Santhana Bharathi
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 40m
- Rating
- 5.2/10
Storyline
A mentally ill man named Gunaa escapes from an asylum and becomes obsessed with finding a woman he believes is the goddess Abhirami. When he kidnaps a wealthy heiress who matches his vision, he must protect her from greedy relatives and the police while trying to make her fall in love with him.
“Love that defies sanity.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Guna
Cast reunions in this film: Kamal Haasan & Ilayaraja (60 films together), Ilayaraja & Janagaraj (59 films together), Rekha & Reka (15 films together), Ilayaraja & Reka (14 films together), Rekha & Ilayaraja (11 films together), and Kamal Haasan & Santhana Bharathi (10 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Gunaa' is the name of a raga in Indian classical music, reflecting the film's musical theme.
- Director Santhana Bharathi was an assistant to director Mani Ratnam before making this film.
- The song 'Kanmani Anbodu' was filmed in Kodaikanal and became a huge hit for composer Ilaiyaraaja.
- Actor Kamal Haasan reportedly spent time with psychiatric patients to prepare for his role as Gunaa.
- The film initially struggled at the box office but later gained a cult following through television reruns.
- Actress Roshni was chosen for the female lead after several other actresses were considered.
- The movie's climax was shot in a single long take, which was rare for Tamil cinema at the time.