Cast
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Rajinikanth
as Kaali
Vijayakumar
as G. K.
Seema
as Anitha
Fatafat Jayalakshmi
as Alangaram
Major Sundarrajan
as Sampath
Manorama
as Thayamma
Suruli Rajan
as Sokku
Vennira Aadai Nirmala
as Kaali's sister
Kaikala Satyanarayana
as Rajaram
Shubha
as Sampath's wife
V. Gopalakrishnan
as Somu
Kanta Rao
as
Prasad Babu
as
Giri Babu
as
Anuradha Sriram
as
Crew
Director
- I V Sasi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Kaali 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 I V Sasi 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 1980, 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 Kaali took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 144 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 181 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: July 3, 1980
- Runtime: 2h 24m