Kadal(2013)
Kadal is a 2013 Indian Tamil-language drama film co-written, co-produced and directed by Mani Ratnam. The ensemble cast includes Arjun Sarja, Arvind Swamy, Gautham Karthik, Lakshmi Manchu, and Thulasi Nair. The story is set in a Christian fishing village on the Tamil Nadu coast and follows a priest, a vengeful man, and a young boy caught between good and evil. The film explores themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between light and darkness. It was shot on 35 mm film in locations including Manapad, Kerala, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The music was composed by A. R. Rahman. Kadal received mixed reviews and was a box-office failure. It was released worldwide on 1 February 2013.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Hotstar, Sun NXT, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 1 February 2013
- Director
- Mani Ratnam
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 44m
- Rating
- 5.8/10
Storyline
A young boy named Thomas grows up wild and alone in a fishing village. A kind priest named Father Sam takes him in and teaches him to be good. But a vengeful man named Bergmans wants to prove that evil always wins. He frames the priest and tempts Thomas into a life of crime. Thomas must choose between the man who raised him and the path of darkness.
“Good always wins in the end.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kadal
Cast reunions in this film: Mani Ratnam & A. R. Rahman (20 films together), Arvind Swamy & A. R. Rahman (9 films together), Arvind Swamy & Mani Ratnam (8 films together), A. R. Rahman & Rajiv Menon (6 films together), Arjun & A. R. Rahman (4 films together), and Arvind Swamy & Rajiv Menon (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film's original title was 'Kadali', which means 'sweetheart' in Tamil, but was shortened to 'Kadali'.
- A.R. Rahman composed the music, and the song 'Adiye' was shot in a single continuous take on a beach.
- The role of the villain, Samraj, was initially offered to actor Prakash Raj before Arvind Swami was cast.
- The film faced criticism for its portrayal of Christian fishermen communities, leading to some controversy.
- It was shot extensively in real coastal locations in Tamil Nadu, including Thoothukudi and Rameswaram.
- The movie marked the Tamil debut of actress Thulasi Nair, daughter of veteran actor Radha.
- Despite high expectations, the film underperformed at the box office, considered a commercial failure.