The Tamil movie Muthu, released on November 23, 1995, is a timeless blend of drama, romance, and action, directed by the legendary K. S. Ravikumar. With superstar Rajinikanth in the lead role, the film carved a unique place in Indian cinema. Complemented by the soulful music of A. R. Rahman, Muthu is more than just a movie—it’s an experience that appeals to fans of all ages. This review explores the many facets of this classic and why it continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
Plot Summary
Set against a backdrop of feudal conflict, Muthu tells the story of a loyal servant—Muthu, portrayed by Rajinikanth—working for a wealthy zamindar. As the plot unfolds, it explores themes of love, loyalty, and destiny. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when a beautiful village girl, Ranganayaki (played by Meena), enters Muthu’s life, setting off a chain of events that challenge his loyalty and change his future. Without giving away spoilers, the film masterfully balances humor, emotion, and thrilling moments, keeping the audience glued till the last scene.
What’s Good?
One of the standout aspects of Muthu is Rajinikanth’s iconic performance. His charismatic screen presence, natural comedic timing, and emotional depth make the character of Muthu unforgettable. The supporting cast, including Meena and Sarath Babu, also delivers compelling performances, adding layers to the story.
The direction by K. S. Ravikumar is another highlight. He seamlessly blends action, comedy, and drama, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The screenplay’s pacing is excellent, with no dull moments to detract from the viewing experience.
A. R. Rahman’s music elevates the film to another level. Tracks like “Thillana Thillana” and “Kokku Saiva Kokku” remain evergreen hits, showcasing Rahman’s genius in combining traditional and modern musical elements. The background score perfectly complements the emotional beats of the story.
The cinematography by Ashok Rajan deserves special mention. From the lush green fields to the grandeur of the zamindar’s palace, the visuals are stunning and immerse the audience in the film’s world. The choreographed fight sequences, especially Rajinikanth’s signature moves, are visually impressive and crowd-pleasing.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Engaging storytelling: The plot’s emotional core, combined with its humor and action, appeals to a wide audience.
- Star power: Rajinikanth’s unparalleled energy and screen presence drive the movie.
- Music and visuals: Rahman’s score and Ashok Rajan’s cinematography provide a sensory feast.
Weaknesses:
- Predictable moments: Some parts of the storyline feel formulaic, particularly for viewers familiar with typical masala films.
- Side characters: While the leads shine, a few supporting characters lack depth and development.
- Pacing in certain scenes: Although well-paced overall, some sequences could have been trimmed to maintain momentum.
Target Audience
Muthu is a film for the masses. It appeals to:
- Families: With its mix of emotions, comedy, and action, it’s perfect for a family outing.
- Rajinikanth fans: The superstar’s larger-than-life presence makes it a must-watch for his admirers.
- Music lovers: Rahman’s timeless tunes ensure a delightful auditory experience.
- Drama enthusiasts: The layered narrative and intense emotional moments are satisfying for those who enjoy compelling stories.
Box Office Details
Budget: The film was made on a budget of approximately INR 4 crore, a significant amount for its time.
Worldwide Box Office Collection:
- The movie grossed over INR 60 crore worldwide, making it one of the biggest hits of 1995.
First 5 Days Earnings:
- Day 1 (India): INR 2 crore
- Day 1 (Overseas): INR 1 crore
- Day 2 (India): INR 1.5 crore
- Day 2 (Overseas): INR 1 crore
- Day 3 (India): INR 1.2 crore
- Day 3 (Overseas): INR 0.8 crore
- Day 4 (India): INR 1.1 crore
- Day 4 (Overseas): INR 0.7 crore
- Day 5 (India): INR 1 crore
- Day 5 (Overseas): INR 0.6 crore
These figures highlight the film’s massive popularity and the universal appeal of its story and characters.
Recommendation
Muthu is a cinematic gem that beautifully blends action, romance, and music, offering something for everyone. With Rajinikanth’s magnetic performance and A. R. Rahman’s memorable music, it’s a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema. Whether you’re revisiting it or watching it for the first time, Muthu is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Table of Contents
Genres:
Comedy, Drama, Action
Rating:
7/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Rajinikanth | Muthu / Zamindar (Muthu’s father) |
| Meena | Ranganayaki |
| Sarath Babu | Raja Malayasimman |
| Radha Ravi | Ambalathar |
| Senthil | Thennappan |
| Vadivelu | Valayapathy |
| Jayabharathi | Sivakamiyammal |
| Subhashri | Padmini |
| Ponnambalam | Kaali |
| Vichitra | Rathidevi |
| Raghuvaran | Rajasekhar |
| Prabhakar | S. P. Pratap Rayudu |
| Ganthimathi | Poongavanam |
| Pandu | Pallavarayan |
| Kumarimuthu | Kamalakannan |
| K. S. Ravikumar | Tamil-speaking Malayali (cameo appearance) |
| Harikumar | One among group dancers in a song “Oruvan Oruvan” |
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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.
