“7Aum Arivu” is a Tamil-language science fiction thriller that was released on October 26, 2011. Directed by A. R. Murugadoss, the movie stars Suriya, Shruti Haasan, and Johnny Tri Nguyen in pivotal roles. With its gripping storyline that mixes elements of science fiction, action, and history, the film quickly garnered attention for its unique concept and star-studded cast. The movie revolves around a man who uncovers a deep connection to his past and embarks on a mission that could change the fate of the world. As an engaging blend of thriller, history, and action, “7Aum Arivu” offers a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The story of “7Aum Arivu” revolves around Aravind (Suriya), a circus artist with extraordinary skills, who is recruited by the Indian government to help combat a dangerous terrorist group. This group, led by the ruthless Dong Lee (Johnny Tri Nguyen), plans to unleash a biological weapon. Aravind’s journey becomes more complicated when he discovers his deep connection to Bodhi Dharma, an ancient Buddhist monk who is believed to have been the first to bring martial arts to China. Aravind’s extraordinary abilities are linked to the knowledge and skills passed down through generations, and he must use them to save the country. The film explores themes of reincarnation, ancient wisdom, and the power of the mind, blending action-packed sequences with emotional depth.
What’s Good?
“7Aum Arivu” stands out for several reasons, and the first among them is Suriya’s stellar performance. He portrays the dual role of Aravind and Bodhi Dharma with ease, capturing the essence of both characters and their contrasting lives. His transformation from a circus performer to a hero with extraordinary abilities is convincing and compelling. Suriya’s dedication to his role is evident, and his action sequences are a visual treat.
The direction by A. R. Murugadoss is another highlight. Known for his ability to mix commercial elements with meaningful narratives, Murugadoss successfully balances science fiction with historical storytelling. The film’s pacing is engaging, keeping the audience hooked with thrilling action scenes and emotional moments. The screenplay is well-crafted, with enough twists and turns to maintain interest.
The film’s music, composed by Harris Jayaraj, deserves special mention. The soundtrack is energetic and complements the mood of the film perfectly. Songs like “Oru Maalai” and “Yaar Intha Saalai” are not only melodious but also enhance the emotional impact of the scenes. The background score adds to the intensity of the action sequences, keeping viewers at the edge of their seats.
The cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran is visually stunning. The film’s high production value is evident in the way the action scenes are choreographed and shot. The use of special effects, especially in the sequences involving martial arts, adds a unique flavor to the film, making it stand out from typical action movies. The film’s visual appeal is heightened by the exotic locations and beautifully executed fight sequences.
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the major strengths of “7Aum Arivu” is its ability to blend different genres. The film successfully combines historical elements with a futuristic plot, which is a rare feat in Tamil cinema. The concept of reincarnation and the idea that the protagonist is linked to an ancient monk adds a layer of depth to the film, making it more than just a typical action thriller.
Suriya’s dual performance is a major highlight. He brings a unique charm to both the roles of Aravind and Bodhi Dharma. His portrayal of the ancient monk is impressive, with his physical transformation and intense focus on the character. The supporting cast, including Shruti Haasan as the scientist Subha, does a commendable job in their respective roles, but Suriya’s presence dominates the screen.
However, the film does have its weaknesses. While the premise is intriguing, the execution at times feels a bit over-the-top. Some of the action sequences, especially the ones involving martial arts, may come across as unrealistic to some viewers. Additionally, the film’s pacing slows down in certain sections, especially in the middle portion, where the narrative becomes more focused on explaining the backstory rather than moving the plot forward.
Another criticism could be the film’s heavy reliance on special effects. While they are visually impressive, at times they overshadow the story, making it feel more like a spectacle than a solid narrative. The film’s attempt to blend science fiction with history, although interesting, may not appeal to all audiences, especially those who prefer straightforward action films.
Target Audience
“7Aum Arivu” is a film that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Fans of action-packed thrillers will enjoy the high-octane sequences and intense fight scenes. Those interested in science fiction and historical narratives will appreciate the film’s unique concept that blends the two genres. The movie also has elements of romance and drama, making it suitable for a broader audience. However, viewers who prefer more grounded, realistic stories may find the film’s larger-than-life moments and special effects a bit overwhelming. Overall, fans of Suriya and A. R. Murugadoss will find “7Aum Arivu” to be a satisfying cinematic experience.
Box Office Details
“7Aum Arivu” had a budget of approximately ₹60 crore (INR). Upon its release, the film made a significant impact at the box office, both in India and overseas. The movie’s worldwide box office collection crossed ₹125 crore, making it a commercial success. The film had a strong opening, earning around ₹10 crore on its first day in India. On the second day, the earnings rose to ₹12 crore, thanks to positive word-of-mouth and a strong fan following for Suriya. The film continued to perform well over the next few days, with day-wise earnings of ₹15 crore on the third day, ₹13 crore on the fourth day, and ₹14 crore on the fifth day. Internationally, the film also performed well, especially in regions with a significant Tamil-speaking population, such as the United States, Malaysia, and Singapore. The strong box office performance of “7Aum Arivu” demonstrated the film’s appeal to a wide audience, making it one of the top-grossing Tamil films of 2011.
Recommendation
In conclusion, “7Aum Arivu” is a visually stunning and engaging film that blends science fiction, action, and history in an entertaining way. While it has its flaws, particularly in terms of pacing and reliance on special effects, the film’s strong performances, especially by Suriya, and its unique concept make it worth watching. If you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers with a mix of historical intrigue, “7Aum Arivu” is definitely worth your time.
Genres:
Action, Science Fiction, Thriller
Rating:
6.5/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Suriya | Bodhidharma / Aravind |
| Shruti Haasan | Subha Srinivasan |
| Johnny Nguyen | Dong Lee |
| Ashwin Kakumanu | Ashwin |
| Guinness Pakru | Aravind’s friend |
| Dhanya Balakrishna | Malathi |
| Misha Ghoshal | Nisha |
| N. Azhagamperumal | Museum Officer |
| Ilavarasu | Aravind’s Cousin |
| Abhinaya | Bodhidharma’s wife |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
