Cast
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Gemini Ganesan
as Sunderalingam / Vanjikottai vaaliban (Youth of vanjikottai) / Sunderam
Padmini
as Princess Padma
Vyjayanthimala
as Princess Mandakin
P. S. Veerappa
as Senapathi
T. K. Shanmugam
as Chokkalingam Navalar
P. Kannamba
as Sivakami
S. V. Subbaiah
as Murugan
M. S. Sundari Bai
as Rangamma
C. R. Vijayakumari
as Gowri
K. A. Thangavelu
as Velan
T. P. Muthulakshmi
as Velan's Wife
D. Balasubramaniam
as Deposed King of Vanjikotta
R. Balasubramaniam
as King of Ratna Theevu. Father of Mandakini.
T. K. Ramachandran
as "Kothaval", assistant to Senapathi.
Crew
Director
- S. S. Vasan
Producer
- S. S. Vasan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Vanjikottai Valiban 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 S. S. Vasan 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 1958, 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 Vanjikottai Valiban took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 183 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 225 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 58 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 362 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1958, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: April 11, 1958
- Runtime: 3h 3m