Nayakudu | Nayagan | Nayakan | Dayavan
Director: Mani Ratnam
Writer: Mani Ratnam
Producers: Muktha Srinivasan, Muktha V. Ramaswamy, G. Venkateswaran
Cast: Kamal Haasan, Saranya, Karthika
Cinematography: P. C. Sreeram
Editing: B. Lenin, V. T. Vijayan
Music: Ilaiyaraaja
Production Company: Muktha Films
Distribution: GV Films
Release Date: 21 October 1987
Watch Telugu Nayakudu Movie HD
Nayakan (நாயகன்) Full Movie HD Tamil
Nayagan HD Movie with English Subtitles
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Why should we watch Nayakudu (Nayakan) movie?
“Nayagan,” a 1987 Tamil movie, is a creation of Mani Ratnam. The film stars Kamal Haasan in the lead role, features music composed by Ilayaraja, and boasts cinematography by PC Sri Ram, among other talents.
The movie is based on the real-life story of Varadaraja Muthaliar, a Mumbai-based don from Dharavi. While some scenes draw inspiration from “The Godfather,” it’s important to note that “Nayagan” is not a direct remake of the aforementioned film; its unique narrative distinguishes it.
So, what makes “Nayagan” special?
- Kamal Haasan: Widely regarded as India’s greatest actor, Kamal Haasan’s portrayal of Sakthivel Naicker is a masterpiece. He conveys emotions solely through expressions and body language, with minimal dialogue. The remarkable transformation he brings to the character as he ages is truly exceptional, earning him a National Award for Best Actor.
- Mani Ratnam: The directorial genius behind the film, Mani Ratnam, crafts a captivating screenplay. The movie begins with a child (played by Kamal Haasan) seeking revenge against a police officer who killed his father. The story concludes with another child avenging Kamal Haasan’s death. The way the character ages is skillfully interwoven into the narrative, demonstrating Ratnam’s mastery. The screenplay showcases the best techniques, as seen in scenes like Velu Naikkar’s daughter questioning him about the minister’s son.
- Ilayaraja: The renowned maestro, Ilayaraja, weaves a tale within the story with his background score. He utilizes silence and concise dialogues effectively, employing simple yet classical melodies. The song “Thenpandi Cheemayile” stands out as one of the best compositions ever, serving as a background tune that delves into Velu Naicker’s emotional landscape.
- PC Sri Ram: A preeminent cinematographer, PC Sri Ram’s work is integral to the film’s success. Many scenes are framed within frames, visually symbolizing the characters’ constrained life situations. His use of camera angles and lighting is masterful, earning him a National Award.
- Thotta Dharani: As the Art Director, Thotta Dharani creates a Dharavi set in Chennai that magically transports viewers to the real Mumbai Dharavi. His meticulous work earns him a National Award as well.
The entire cast delivers outstanding performances, embodying simplicity and classic acting.
Listed by Time Magazine among the best 100 films ever made in cinematic history, “Nayagan” rightfully earns its place due to the collective brilliance of Kamal Haasan’s acting, Mani Ratnam’s direction, Ilayaraja’s musical storytelling, PC Sri Ram’s cinematography, and Thotta Dharani’s artistry.
