Madrasapattinam is a Tamil historical romance film that was released on July 9, 2010. Directed by A. L. Vijay, this movie is set in the pre-independence era and tells an emotional love story between a young Indian man and a British woman. The film beautifully captures the historical essence of Madras (now Chennai) and brings a heartfelt story with rich visuals. With Arya and Amy Jackson in the lead roles, the film was well-received for its storytelling and period setting. This review will explore the movie’s strengths, weaknesses, box office performance, and overall impact.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The story of Madrasapattinam takes place during the 1940s, just before India gained independence. Parithi (Arya) is a brave, simple, and honest man who works for the welfare of his people in Madras. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Amy Wilkinson (Amy Jackson), the daughter of the British Governor. Despite their differences in background and culture, they fall in love. However, their love faces major obstacles due to societal and political tensions of that time.
The movie shifts between the past and present, as an older Amy returns to India many years later in search of her lost love. The film is an emotional journey filled with drama, romance, and historical significance, keeping the audience engaged till the end.
What’s Good?
Madrasapattinam has many elements that make it a memorable film:
1. Acting and Characters
Arya delivers a strong performance as Parithi, showcasing both strength and vulnerability in his character. Amy Jackson, in her debut film, impresses with her expressive acting and grace. The supporting cast, including Nassar and Cochin Hanifa, add depth to the narrative.
2. Direction and Screenplay
A. L. Vijay does an excellent job in storytelling, making the audience feel emotionally connected with the characters. The seamless shift between past and present is handled beautifully.
3. Music and Background Score
G. V. Prakash Kumar’s music is one of the highlights of the film. Songs like Pookal Pookum and Vaama Duraiyamma became highly popular. The background score enhances the emotional depth of the movie.
4. Cinematography and Art Direction
The visuals of old Madras are beautifully recreated. Cinematographer Nirav Shah captures the grandeur of the British era with rich detailing. The period setting, costumes, and locations feel authentic.
5. Emotional Depth
The love story is filled with genuine emotions, making the audience feel the pain and struggle of the characters. The climax is heart-touching and leaves a lasting impact.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Engaging Storyline – The film maintains an emotional connection with the audience throughout.
- Strong Performances – Arya and Amy Jackson give convincing performances.
- Beautiful Cinematography – The visuals transport the audience to the 1940s.
- Memorable Music – Songs and background music add to the film’s emotional appeal.
- Historical Setting – The film effectively captures the pre-independence era.
Weaknesses:
- Slow Pace – Some parts of the movie, especially in the second half, feel a bit stretched.
- Predictable Plot – While the love story is emotional, it follows a familiar pattern.
- Limited Depth for Side Characters – Some supporting roles could have been explored more.
Target Audience
Madrasapattinam appeals to a wide range of audiences:
- Romance Lovers – The emotional love story makes it a great watch for fans of romantic films.
- History Enthusiasts – People who enjoy historical settings and period dramas will appreciate the detailed recreation of old Madras.
- Music Fans – The melodious songs and background score add to the film’s charm.
- Family Audience – The film has a universal appeal and can be enjoyed by all age groups.
Box Office Details
| Budget | Worldwide Collection |
|---|---|
| ₹18 crore | ₹50 crore |
Day-wise Collection (India and Overseas)
| Day | India Collection (INR) | Overseas Collection (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | ₹3 crore | ₹1.2 crore |
| Day 2 | ₹3.5 crore | ₹1.5 crore |
| Day 3 | ₹4 crore | ₹1.7 crore |
| Day 4 | ₹3.8 crore | ₹1.4 crore |
| Day 5 | ₹3.2 crore | ₹1.3 crore |
The film performed well at the box office, especially in Tamil Nadu. The music and strong word-of-mouth helped attract audiences, making it one of the notable hits of 2010.
Recommendation
Madrasapattinam is a visually stunning and emotionally touching film. With strong performances, excellent music, and a well-executed historical setting, it stands out as a memorable love story. If you enjoy romance and period dramas, this movie is definitely worth watching. The film captures the essence of old Madras and leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
