Happy Birthday Mani Ratnam! Mani Ratnam is a revered Indian filmmaker known for his exceptional storytelling and innovative cinematic techniques. With a career spanning over four decades, he has made significant contributions to both South Indian and Bollywood cinema. Ratnam's films are celebrated for their compelling narratives, complex characters, and aesthetic brilliance.
As he celebrates his 68th birthday, here are seven of his best films that showcase his mastery in filmmaking:
Nayakan (1987): A milestone in Tamil cinema, "Nayakan" stars Kamal Haasan as Velu Naicker, a character inspired by the real-life Mumbai underworld don, Varadarajan Mudaliar. The film delves into the transformation of an ordinary man into a powerful gangster. Its nuanced portrayal of crime, combined with Ilaiyaraaja's unforgettable score, made "Nayakan" a classic, earning it a spot in TIME Magazine's "All-Time 100 Best Films."
Thalapathi (1991): Starring Rajinikanth and Mammootty, "Thalapathi" is inspired by the Mahabharata, specifically the friendship between Karna and Duryodhana. The film follows the life of an orphan (Rajinikanth) who becomes the loyal lieutenant of a local don (Mammootty). The intense narrative, combined with Ilaiyaraaja's stirring music, makes "Thalapathi" a significant entry in Ratnam's oeuvre.
Roja (1992): 'Roja' is a Tamil romantic thriller that gained national attention and was dubbed into several languages, including Hindi. The film tells the story of a young woman, Roja, whose husband, a cryptologist, is kidnapped by terrorists in Kashmir. It is renowned for its patriotic theme, A.R. Rahman's debut as a composer, and its vivid portrayal of the Kashmir conflict.
Dil Se.. (1998): 'Dil Se..' is a Bollywood film that blends romance with a gripping narrative about terrorism. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala, the film explores the intense and tragic love story between a journalist and a mysterious woman involved with a terrorist group. The film is notable for its breathtaking cinematography, soulful music by A.R. Rahman, and the iconic song "Chaiyya Chaiyya."
Alaipayuthey (2000): "Alaipayuthey" is a Tamil romantic drama that delves into the complexities of marriage and relationships. The film, which inspired the Bollywood remake "Saathiya," follows the story of a young couple who elope and later face the challenges of married life. The film is praised for its realistic portrayal of love and marriage, as well as its memorable soundtrack by A.R. Rahman.
Guru (2007): "Guru" is a Bollywood film loosely based on the life of Dhirubhai Ambani, founder of Reliance Industries. Starring Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, the film chronicles the rags-to-riches story of an ambitious villager who becomes a successful businessman. "Guru" is celebrated for its strong narrative, brilliant performances, and A.R. Rahman's captivating music.
O Kadhal Kanmani (2015): "O Kadhal Kanmani" is a Tamil romantic drama that portrays the lives of a young couple in a live-in relationship in Mumbai. The film, known for its modern take on romance and relationships, features Dulquer Salmaan and Nithya Menen in the lead roles. It is noted for its charming narrative, refreshing music by A.R. Rahman, and Mani Ratnam's deft direction.
These films highlight Mani Ratnam's versatility and his ability to weave compelling stories that resonate with the audience.