How a film written backwards changed a star's career forever
In short: In 2001, director Bala released a gritty Tamil drama that defied conventional storytelling. Inspired by the climax of the Malayalam film Thaniyavarthanam, the narrative was written backwards, offering a visceral look at trauma, vengeance, and the tragic consequences of a mother's paranoia.
Released on 14 November 2001 during Diwali, Nandhaa is an action drama that marked a turning point for lead actor Suriya. Before this role, Suriya had appeared in films like Uyirile Kalanthathu (2000) and Friends (2001), but he later credited this specific production with transforming him into a serious actor through director Bala's disciplined approach.
The plot follows Nandhaa, a man struggling to reintegrate into society after serving time in a borstal for killing his father. The story is defined by complex, heavy themes: a deaf-mute mother's inability to trust her son, a mentor figure named Periyavar who provides justice where the law fails, and a tragic, cyclical descent into violence. The film's intensity was so high that critics noted viewers might need a towel rather than just tissues to handle the emotional weight.
The production faced several hurdles. The lead role was initially offered to Ajith Kumar, who declined because the screenplay was not fully developed. Following his departure, Suriya was cast, requiring him to undergo a significant physical transformation. The film also served as the acting debut for Karunas, whose character, Lodukku Pandi, was so impactful it eventually inspired the title of a 2015 film.
While some critics at Rediff.com felt the climax prevented the film from meeting its full potential, others praised the film for its departure from the 'masala' genre. It remains a significant piece of Tamil cinema history, noted for its unique narrative structure and its ability to move away from routine cinematic tropes.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Nandhaa
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