Ponniyin Selvan: Part I, a Tamil historical epic film, hit theaters on September 30, 2022. Directed by the legendary Mani Ratnam, the movie is an adaptation of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s iconic novel of the same name. The film blends history, drama, and action, set against the backdrop of the Chola dynasty. With a star-studded cast and a grand production scale, it generated significant buzz before its release. In this review, we’ll dive into the movie’s strengths, weaknesses, and its overall appeal.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- Stellar Performances
- Direction and Screenplay
- Music and Background Score
- Cinematography and Visuals
- Faithful Adaptation
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Budget
- Worldwide Box Office Collection
- Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
- About the Author: Rampukar
Plot Summary
The story of Ponniyin Selvan: Part I revolves around political intrigue, royal conspiracies, and power struggles within the Chola empire. It introduces the audience to a complex web of characters, including princes, warriors, and scheming nobles. The plot follows Vandiyathevan, a brave and witty messenger, as he travels across the empire delivering crucial messages while uncovering secrets that could change the course of history. Alongside him, we meet Princess Kundavai and the enigmatic Nandini, each playing pivotal roles in the unfolding drama. The movie sets the stage for an epic tale without delving into spoilers, leaving viewers eager for Part II.
What’s Good?
Stellar Performances
The cast delivers exceptional performances. Karthi, as Vandiyathevan, is charismatic and effortlessly carries the film’s lighter moments. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, portraying Nandini, mesmerizes with her grace and intensity, while Trisha Krishnan as Kundavai is both regal and commanding. Jayam Ravi brings depth to the role of Arulmozhi Varman, the titular Ponniyin Selvan.
Direction and Screenplay
Mani Ratnam’s vision shines throughout the film. His ability to weave complex narratives while maintaining audience engagement is commendable. The screenplay strikes a balance between historical authenticity and cinematic flair, ensuring the story remains accessible to viewers unfamiliar with the source material.
Music and Background Score
A.R. Rahman’s music is another highlight. The songs blend seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of key scenes. The background score amplifies the grandeur and tension, making every moment memorable.
Cinematography and Visuals
Ravi Varman’s cinematography captures the grandeur of the Chola empire beautifully. The sweeping landscapes, intricate palace interiors, and battle sequences are a visual treat. The attention to detail in costumes and set design further immerses viewers in the period.
Faithful Adaptation
Adapting a beloved novel like Ponniyin Selvan is no easy task, but the filmmakers have done justice to the source material. The narrative retains its essence while making necessary changes for the cinematic medium.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Strong Ensemble Cast: Every actor fits their role perfectly, bringing Kalki’s characters to life.
- Rich Visuals: The grandeur of the Chola dynasty is captured with stunning detail.
- Engaging Narrative: The plot’s twists and turns keep viewers invested throughout.
- Cultural Significance: The movie offers a glimpse into Tamil history, making it both entertaining and educational.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: Some scenes, especially in the first half, feel slow, which might test the patience of certain viewers.
- Complex Plot: The dense narrative might be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the novel or the historical context.
- Abrupt Ending: As the first part of a two-part story, the movie leaves many threads unresolved, which could frustrate some audiences.
Target Audience
Ponniyin Selvan: Part I is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and fans of period dramas. It’s ideal for viewers who enjoy intricate plots, rich visuals, and strong performances. Families, especially those familiar with Tamil culture and history, will appreciate the film’s cultural depth. However, casual moviegoers seeking fast-paced action might find it less appealing.
Box Office Details
Budget
The movie was made on a massive budget of approximately INR 500 crores, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever produced.
Worldwide Box Office Collection
Ponniyin Selvan: Part I was a commercial success, grossing over INR 500 crores worldwide within a few weeks of its release. It performed exceptionally well in Tamil Nadu and overseas markets, especially among the Tamil diaspora.
Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Day 1: INR 80 crores (India: INR 60 crores, Overseas: INR 20 crores)
- Day 2: INR 70 crores (India: INR 50 crores, Overseas: INR 20 crores)
- Day 3: INR 85 crores (India: INR 65 crores, Overseas: INR 20 crores)
- Day 4: INR 60 crores (India: INR 45 crores, Overseas: INR 15 crores)
- Day 5: INR 50 crores (India: INR 35 crores, Overseas: INR 15 crores)
The film’s strong box office performance highlights its widespread appeal and the anticipation for Part II.
Recommendation
Ponniyin Selvan: Part I is a visual and narrative masterpiece that brings Tamil history to life. While it has minor flaws, the movie’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates epic storytelling and grand cinematic experiences. Don’t miss this historical gem!
Genres:
Action, Adventure
Rating:
7.1/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Vikram | Aditha Karikalan |
| Aishwarya Rai Bachchan | Nandini / Oomai Rani |
| Jayam Ravi | Arunmozhi Varman |
| Karthi | Vanthiyathevan |
| Trisha Krishnan | Kundavai |
| Jayaram | Alwarkkadiyan Nambi |
| Prakash Raj | Sundara Chozhar |
| R. Sarathkumar | Periya Pazhuvettarayar |
| R. Parthiban | Chinna Pazhuvettarayar |
| Kishore | Ravidasan |
| Aishwarya Lekshmi | Poonguzhali |
| Sobhita Dhulipala | Vanathi |
| Ashwin Kakumanu | Sendhan Amudhan |
| Rahman | Madhurantakan |
| Jayachitra | Sembiyan Maadevi |
| Prabhu | Periya Velaar |
| Lal | Malayaman |
| Vikram Prabhu | Parthibendran Pallavan |
| Riyaz Khan | Soman Sambavan |
| Vinay Kumar Joseph | Devaralan |
| Arjun Chidambaram | Varagunan |
| Yog Jappie | Karuthiruman |
| Nizhalgal Ravi | Kadambur Sambuvarayar |
| Mohan Raman | Anirudha Brahmarayar |
| Vidhya Subramanian | Vaanavan Maadevi |
| Vinodhini Vaidyanathan | Vasuki |
| Ashwin Rao Pallaki | Kandhamaaran |
| Shyam Fernando | Mahindan |
| Harris Moosa | Kalapathi |
| Babu Antony | Khottiga Amogavarshan |
| Gopi Kannadasan | Dambulla Bikshu |
| Balaji Sakthivel | Vanangamudi Munnaireyar |
| Santhosh | Young Aditha Karikalan |
| Sara Arjun | Young Nandini |
| Master Raghavan | Amarabujanga Pandiyan |
| Nassar | Veerapandiyan |
| Bharat Raj | Karka |
| Suresh Ekambaram | Aadhan Maran |
| Nimmy Raphael | Rakkamma |
| A. Seemon | Ugradevan |
| Anil Kumar | Pasupathi |
| Shakthi Ramani | Kani |
| Ramachandran | Rajaaliyar |
| Jaichandran | Thanthongi Kalingarayar |
| Amzath Khan | Mazhavarayar |
| Kannan | Kundrathur Kizhar |
| Sundaram | Mazhapadi Thennavan |
| Jaindhan | Mummudi Pallavarayar |
| Nambi | Muttharayar |
| Bharathiraja Sakthivel | PS Commander |
| Heavens Raja | Saivite |
| Balla Bhoopalan | Idumbankari |
| Manoj Kumar K. | CP Guard 1 |
| Aadesh Bala | CP Guard 2 |
| Prabhu Mani | CP Guard 3 |
| Vikram | CP Guard 4 |
| Deepa Venkat | Nandini (Voice) |
| Krithika Nelson | Kundavai (Voice) |
| Ashmini Balakrishnan | Poonguzhali (Voice) |
| K. Smruthi | Vanathi (Voice) |
| N. Azhagamperumal | Madhuranthakan (Voice) |
| Kamal Haasan | Narrator |
How is Our Review?
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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.
