Thalapathi (1991)

Not going to pretend otherwise, but watching Thalapathi is a completely different experience if you have learnt how to frame shots, and more importantly, shot a short film/documentary yourself. 

Firstly, it made me realise (finally) why Mani saar is such a tour de force in the Indian film industry (apart from his class-caste status, of course). 

Secondly, the framing of the shots gave the story an additional depth, particularly in the scenes featuring Shobana and Rajinikanth. In a way, they foreshadowed their doomed love and the boundaries neither could cross. Were it not for those frames (and the two legendary actors, obviously), I guess the love story would have fallen a little flat. 

This also reminds me how I found the love story in Nayakan more impactful than the gangster saga aspect: maybe it's time for a revisit?

Ilaiyaraaja's music is the real hero of the movie, in my humble opinion. I mean, every song in this album hits you exactly where it needs you, and also in places you didn't even knew existed. Special mentions for 'Sundari' and 'Yamune Aatrile', two of my favourite songs ever.

Also, can we talk about Shobana's iconic entry towards the end of 'Rakamma'? She is too adorable and precious for her own good, I swear to god. Can't believe she had to marry Arvind Swamy of all people here. 

Finally, this movie is literally a collaboration between Mammukka, Shobana, Srividya, Rajini, Amrish Puri, Ilaiyaraaja, AND Mani saar who still had his head in the game. It was meant to be a classic. Duh.

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