Cast
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Sivaji Ganesan
as Va. Vu. Chidambaram Pillai
Savitri
as Kannamma
Gemini Ganesan
as Madaswamy
T. K. Shanmugam
as Subramaniya Siva
S. V. Subbaiah
as Subramania Bharathiyar
Kumari Rukmini
as V. O. C.'s Wife, Meenakshi Ammal
K. Balaji
as Vanchinathan
Chittoor V. Nagayya
as Ulaganathan Pillai
T. S. Durairaj
as Sangan
A. Karunanidhi
as Mannarsami
N. N. Kannappa
as Meenakshisundaram
M. R. Santhanam
as Aid Ekambaram
Gemini Chandra
as Vanchi's Wife, Ponnammal
T. P. Muthulakshmi
as Singamma (Sudhandira Devi)
S. R. Janaki
as Madasami's Mother
Crew
Director
- B. Ramakrishnaiah Panthulu
Producer
- B. Ramakrishnaiah Panthulu
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Kappalottiya Thamizhan examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director B. Ramakrishnaiah Panthulu brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1961, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Kappalottiya Thamizhan took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 197 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 220 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 32 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1961, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: January 31, 1961
- Runtime: 3h 17m