News

Ranganathan Madhavan, better known as R. Madhavan, has made a name for himself in both Bollywood and Tamil cinema with iconic films like Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein, Vikram Vedha, Tanu Weds Manu, Rocketry, Anbe Sivam, Aethirree, and many more. These movies are still loved and celebrated today.

In his upcoming movie Hisaab Barabar, R. Madhavan takes on the role of an honest and determined ticket checker (Tc) who sets out to expose a massive financial scam. The scam is masterminded by Do Bank and its owner Mickey Mehta, played by Neil Nitin Mukesh. The film has all the right ingredients to become another memorable performance from the versatile actor!

The movie also boasts a solid ensemble cast, including Kirti Kulhari, Yogesh Tripathi, Rajesh Jais, and more. The movie is set to premiere on January 24th on Zee 5 Global, and we here at High on Films, had the chance to chat with R.

ObituaryShivaji was a part of many popular and critically acclaimed films including ‘Apoorva Sagodharangal’, ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘Aayutha Ezhuthu’, ‘Soorarai Pottru’, ‘Kolamavu Kokila’, and ‘Gargi’.Veteran Tamil actor Rs Shivaji passed away in Chennai on Saturday, September 2. He was 66 years old. A post on his Facebook page confirms that Shivaji passed away suddenly, following a cardiac arrest. “My appa Rs Shivaji had a cardiac arrest and has passed away suddenly. Appa’s body is at Narayani Apartments, Kamaraj Salai, Ra Puram, Chennai 28. Thank you, everyone, for all your support at this hour (sic),” the post, the author of which is unconfirmed, said. Shivaji was part of many popular and critically acclaimed films including Sathya, Apoorva Sagodharangal, Michael Madana Kama Rajan, Anbe Sivam, Aayutha Ezhuthu, Soorarai Pottru, Kolamavu Kokila, and Gargi. He won praise for his performance as the father of the title character in Gargi, played by Sai Pallavi, for whom...

By Henry McKeand

It's been twenty years since the release of “Anbe Sivam,” the ambitious collaboration between director Sundar C and writer/star Kamal Haasan that became an enduring cult classic of Tamil cinema. At the time, it must have seemed an unlikely pairing. The latter's script for the film was deeply rooted in themes of class struggle and philosophy, while the former was known for his work in more commercial fare. At first, it wasn't clear if such a partnership would be successful. It was released in January of 2003 to rave reviews from critics but it underperformed at the box office. However, it gained a loyal following after home video releases and television re-runs allowed audiences to discover its potent blend of comedy and humanism. Now, it is regarded as one of the greatest Tamil films of the 21st century.

on Amazon by clicking on the...

KollywoodHelmed by filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj, Vikram co-stars actors Fahadh Faasil and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead. Tnm StaffScreengrab/ YouTubeThe much-anticipated first single from actors Kamal Haasan, Fahadh Faasil, and Vijay Sethupathi’s upcoming movie Vikram was released on Wednesday, May 11. The film is helmed by director Lokesh Kanagaraj of Master fame, and bankrolled by Raaj Kamal International Films. ‘Pathala Pathala’, a fun-filled track, is reminiscent of the actor’s previous tracks like ‘Kandasamy Madasamy’, and ‘Alwarpetta Aandava’ among others. The film has music by Anirudh Ravichander. Kamal has sung many popular tracks including ‘Anbe Sivam’. Ahead of the song release, Anirudh shared a photo he had clicked along with actor Kamal Haasan and confirmed that Kamal has written the lyrics and also lent his voice as the singer for the first single from Vikram ‘Pathala Pathala’. "Ulaganayagan @ikamalhaasan sir writes and sings #PathalaPathala What a session! Thank you sir #Vikram...

KollywoodThe actor was well-known for his ‘Nellai’ slang and comedic roles in movies such as ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘23 aam Pulikecei’, ‘Thirupaachi’ and ‘Saamy’ among others. Tnm StaffTwitterActor-comedian Nellai Siva, who is popular for appearing in supporting roles in many movies and television serials, died on May 11 after suffering a heart attack. The final rites of the late actor were performed by his family members at his hometown in Panakudi, in Tirunelveli district on Wednesday. He was aged 69 at the time of his demise. Nellai Siva was also suffering from other age-related ailments. Siva is especially popular for the appearances he made alongside popular Kollywood comedian Vadivelu in various Tamil movies. He made a mark with his Nellai accent and comical appearances in movies such as Saamy, Thirupaachi, Kireedam and Imsai Arasan 23 aam Pulikecei. Many of his friends and co-stars from the film fraternity took to social media to express their condolences.

InterviewStarring Madhavan and Shraddha Srinath in lead roles, the film will release worldwide on Amazon Prime Video on December 17.Anjana ShekarDirector Dhilip Kumar on the sets of 'Maara'Maara, starring Madhavan and Shraddha Srinath in lead roles, will release worldwide on Amazon Prime Video on December 17. Produced by Prateek Chakravorty and Shruti Nallappa of Pramod Films, the film has been directed by debutant Dhilip Kumar. Dhilip, however, isn’t entirely new to cinema. The young filmmaker had actually directed a short film called Kalki in 2017 for the same production house. “I was brought on board as a writer for this project and as things worked out, it was decided that I would direct this film,” Dhilip tellsTNM. Incidentally, director Al Vijay was brought on board for this film that was reported to be based on Martin Prakkat’s Malayalam hit Charlie. Since the time it was first proposed in 2016, many significant...

ObituaryFlorent, who made his debut in the Vijay film 'Pudhiya Geethai', was 67.Tnm StaffTamil actor and mediaperson Florent C Pereira, known for his role in the 2017 film Enkitta Mothathe, passed away in Chennai on September 14 around 10 pm. The actor was admitted to Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai where he was undergoing treatment for Covid-19. He was 67. Condoling his death, director Seenu Ramasamy wrote on Twitter, “I can't believe this Film Actor Kalaignar TV Ex Gm good-hearted soulful Mr.Florent Perera you are in the midst of us Rip Father My deepest condolence to his family & Friends. (sic)”. Florent had starred in Seenu Ramasam’s Dharmadurai and the yet to be released film Idam Porul Yaeval. I can't believe this Film Actor Kalaignar TV Ex Gm good hearted soulful Mr.Florent Perera you are in the midst of us Rip Father My deepest condolence to his family & Friends.#CoronavirusPandemic @DrBrianPereira #Alexanderpereira pic.

KollywoodActors Khusbhu, Nasser, Prabhu, director Ks Ravikumar and many others were also part of the Zoom call.Tnm StaffVinodh VelayudhanJune 10 marked the one year death anniversary of ‘Crazy’ Mohan whose contribution to Tamil cinema with his witty one-liners, puns and smart wordplay is fondly recalled by fans. Tokyo Tamil Sangam organised a Zoom conference call to celebrate the screenwriter and theatre personality by inviting people such as actor-politician Kamal Haasan, his close friend and many-time collaborator, actors Khusbhu Sundar, Nasser, Prabhu, director Ks Ravikumar, singer Nithyasree, musician Rajhesh Vaidhya and many others. Many participated in the Zoom conference, co-hosted by Mohan’s brother Maadhu Balaji along with Tokyo Tamil Sangam, to share their fondest memories of having known or worked with Crazy Mohan. “In Anbe Sivam film, there’s a dialogue that we wrote together on friendship and brotherhood between two men. “Idhenna kadhala, asingama solikitrukarthuku. Iruku. Vitrunga.”. It is there.

KollywoodIn the Tamil social psyche, May Day holds an indelible place by way of songs and movies.Kavitha MuralidharanTamil Nadu shares a cherished link with May Day and its history. In 1923, it was in Chennai that May Day was first celebrated in India – led by veteran communist leader Singaravelar. But the bond goes beyond such unionist measures. In the Tamil social psyche, May Day holds an indelible place by way of songs and movies. Writer and scholar Stalin Rajangam points out that in Tamil cinema, the songs around May Day, on labour and its issues, are far more in number than other celebratory songs, including those meant for festivals like Deepavali and Pongal, or say New Year. “It started with lyricists like Patukottai Kalyanasundaram and Udumalai Narayana Kavi who wrote songs in the 1950s. Bharathidasan’s songs were also used in some films. But it was not until the 1980s...

KollywoodThe 2003 movie was a flop when it released but has since gone on to become a favourite. Fahir MaithuttyIn a scene from Anbe Sivam, Anbarasu (Madhavan) breaks down after the boy for whom he had given blood dies. He says –“These are times when your belief in the existence of God gets shaken”. He looks at Nallasivam (Kamal Haasan), sitting beside him and then re-assures himself, “No, I am not like you. I believe in God”. Nalla replies “I believe in God too”. Pointing his fingers at a stunned Arasu, Nalla adds - “That heart of yours which shed tears for a complete stranger – That is God!” You do not have to be an atheist to adore this exceptionally beautiful sequence from Anbe Sivam. The writing here worked on different levels. Nalla, through his words, could console the wounded Arasu and bring a smile in him. Kamal Haasan, who also wrote the movie’s script, used these same words to perfectly sum up the message he had to convey. It was, in a nutshell, the same as the movie’s title – “Anbe Sivam” (Love is God). Anbe Sivam, which told this stunning story of a man who found God in people who did good things, completed 15 years on this January 15. Over these years, the movie has grown to be a classic, has been watched by people over and over again and continues to be discussed even today. But when the movie released back in 2003, it was a flop at box-office - this can perhaps be attributed to the fact that people have often found it difficult to accept movies that walked a different path or were far ahead of their time. What would have been further heart-breaking to its makers was that Anbe Sivam wasn’t acknowledged even in the major awards. It didn’t win any National Award despite the exceptional performances, dialogues or lyrics. Barring a special jury award at Filmfare and a Tamil Nadu State award for Madhavan, who actually won it for also his work in Run and Kannathil Muthamittal, Anbe Sivam was rejected everywhere else. Today, Anbe Sivam ranks 4th in the IMDb’s list of top rated Indian movies. Much of Anbe Sivam's iconic status and immense repeat value have to do with how brilliantly the film mixed the comedy and poignant moments with thought provoking dialogues that grow on you. The initial portions where Arasu, a self-centred man, is stuck with Nalla on his journey from Bhubaneswar to Chennai was partly inspired from the American comedy, Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Nalla’s character was partly based on Safdar Hashmi, the communist playwright, who used street theatre to voice his protests. Kamal Haasan combined these effectively to impart his own ideologies in religion, communism and globalization. His success with Anbe Sivam lay in doing the same without being over-preachy or offending the viewer’s own ideals. Anbe Sivam told us how certain relationships in life are woven in the most unexpected ways. How Nalla jumps in joy when he meets Sister Vanessa, who took care of him after the accident, is still a treat to watch. When Arasu starts his journey with Nalla, he keeps trying to avoid him at every possible juncture. But finally, Arasu ends up admitting that he had now found his lost brother in latter. Nalla, on the other hand, sacrifices his love and decides not to meet Bala (Kiran Rathod) after he learns Arasu is about to marry her. Nalla takes care of the dog that actually caused his bus accident. When Padayatchi’s henchman (Santhana Bharathi) confronts him in the climax to kill him, the only request he has is to leave the dog alone. When he finally sets Nalla free and asks him to never come to the town again, Nalla smiles and tells him that he has once again seen God. This is as much a movie could warm your heart in two and half hours. Madhan, who wrote the movie’s dialogues, complemented Kamal in every step. Almost every line left something for you to ponder. When Arasu expresses his discomfort when travelling in a bus, Nalla advises him, “You should gel with the crowd in a public place. You will want to make adjustments like a remote control. But this is the world, not a television set.” In another scene, Arasu says – “Soviet Union has broken into pieces. No Soviet Union means no communism”. Nalla retorts- “If the Taj Mahal crumbles, will you all stop loving?" Arasu replies – “No, because love is a feeling”. Nalla now hits back -“Communism is a feeling too”. The difference that some well written lines can make! Kamal Haasan, like he always does, “became” Nallasivam. He once again paid utmost attention to change his appearance and body language for the character. The effort he makes to click and open his jaw every third second, is the kind of commitment that puts him in the league of the greatest actors. Madhavan’s infectious energy and comic timing helped the movie a great deal. It is not easy to match a powerhouse of talent like Kamal Haasan. But Madhavan nailed it in the scene where Arasu gets to know that Nalla doesn't have a family and then asks him to be on his side always as a brother. In response to this, Kamal Haasan pauses for a few seconds, gasps and stutters, when he asks - “But why you didn't tell me this before? ” What a terrific combat between two fine acting moments! Vidyasagar's music flows like a breeze through the movie and Vairamuthu’s lyrics place pearls of wisdom even in the songs. The detailing in most frames was precise. Some of the movie’s finest moments are when Anbarasu and Nallasivam sit side by side and talk. The camera often showed us the angle from Arasu’s side. This helped us see what Arasu speaks and how Nalla reacts to it, behind him. This was such fine film-making. Sundar.C has never directed a better movie. After his treatment, when Nalla is leaving the church, sister Vanessa stops him, saying she forgot something. She then goes forward and hugs him. Anbe Sivam is like that warm hug. They say movies have the ability to stir your deepest emotions. For an apt example, you don't have to look beyond Anbe Sivam.

Indian stars Jayam Ravi (Thillalangadi, Thani Oruvan), Arya (Boss Engira Bhaskaran, Vettai), and Shruti Haasan (Gabbar Is Back, Welcome Back) are set to appear in Sundar C.’s (Aranmanai, Anbe Sivam) latest directorial venture, Sangamithra, coming from Thenandal Studios Limited.

Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours) has also boarded the project as composer.

The film will be officially launched Thursday at the Marche du Film's opening night in Cannes, which the cast, director, production designer, producers and Rahman will attend.

Set in the 8th century Ad, Sangamithra, is a heartfelt tale of the trials and tribulations of Sangamithra and her journey to save her kingdom. As an...

Chennai, May 13: Southern actor R. Madhavan looks up to actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan as his deity, and when he met him recently at an award ceremony, he felt like a teenager again.

"Had a great time at the Vijay Awards. Met my god Kamal sir again after a while. (I) was a gaping teenager all over again," tweeted Madhavan.

Madhavan and Kamal bonded well at the 7th edition of Vijay Awards Saturday, which the former hosted. The two had worked together in Tamil films "Anbe Sivam" and "Manmathan Ambu".

The award ceremony was also graced by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, with whom also Madhavan shared great time.

"I.

Chennai, March 30: Southern actress Khushbu Sundar feels that the fate of a film at the box office is decided by the audiences, not critics. As much as she respects the views of critics, she feels the best critic of a film is its audience.

"With due respect to the critics, the best and the right critic for a movie is the audience. They decide whether the movie is good or bad," Khushbu posted on her Twitter page

"Movies that have been ripped apart by the critics have done extremely well at the box office and vice versa. To me, my audience is everything and that's the story of success in every film making business all over the world," she further posted.

Elucidating with an example, she posted, ""Anbe Sivam" directed.

Kamal Haasan is one superstar who is known for his talent not just in south or Bollywood but also globally. The man who has shown his skills in the world of cinema both, in front and behind the camera, and has managed to mesmerize the audiences with his work completes 50 years in Indian cinema this year. In order to commemorate this grand occasion, a three-day festival of Kamal Haasan's films is being organized in New Delhi from July 2, which is to be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni. In all, there will be seven movies of the actor that will form the retrospective, which will start with the Hindi film Hey Ram and will be followed by regional films like Anbe Sivam, Virumaandy, Thevar Magan, Dasavatharam, Nayagan and Sagar Sangamam.

Kamal Haasan is one superstar who is known for his talent not just in south or Bollywood but also globally. The man who has shown his skills in the world of cinema both, in front and behind the camera, and has managed to mesmerize the audiences with his work completes 50 years in Indian cinema this year. In order to commemorate this grand occasion, a three-day festival of Kamal Haasan's films is being organized in New Delhi from July 2, which is to be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni. In all, there will be seven movies of the actor that will form the retrospective, which will start with the Hindi film Hey Ram and will be followed by regional films like Anbe Sivam, Virumaandy, Thevar Magan, Dasavatharam, Nayagan and Sagar Sangamam.

A three-day festival of Kamal Haasan's films is being organised in the capital from July 2 to commemorate the veteran actor's 50 years in Indian cinema. The 55-year-old national-award-winning actor, who has played diverse roles in over 200 films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi, will be the guest of honour at the event, to be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni. Seven movies of the actor will be screened. The Retrospective will open with Hindi film HeyRam and will be followed by Tamil movies like Anbe Sivam,Virumaandy, Thevar Magan, Dasavatharam and Nayagan and one Telugu movie Sagar ...

New Delhi, June 23 – A three-day film festival on veteran actor Kamal Hassan is being organised in the capital July 2-4.

Titled ‘Retrospective of Kamal Haasan Films’, the festival will be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni at Siri Fort Auditorium.

Seven movies of the actor will be screened. The screening is free for the public.

The festival will open with Hindi film ‘Hey Ram’ and will be followed by Tamil movies like ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘Virumaandy’,.

Last time we saw Kamal Haasan and Madhavan sharing the screen space together was in the film ‘Anbe Sivam’. It has been nearly 7 years and the duo combo is back in action to strike with a big bang. This time, it will be a different film as K.S. Ravikumar has reported this film to be a romantic entertainer touted to be a triangular love story. The film features Kamal Haasan- Madhavan and Trisha in lead roles with Kannadasan’s daughter and Sangeetha taking on powerful roles.

Earlier, Shruthi Haasan was supposed to score music for this film and the producer Udhayanidhi Stalin has preferred Devi Sri Prasad to score the music. The complete film will be shot across the exotic locales of Monte Carlo with the movie team meeting the press meet at Avm Indoor Studio on day after tomorrow.

The official announcement about the film’s title and...