Mama Mama Un Ponnu from Boss Engira Baskaran

Those who can laugh without cause have either found the true meaning of happiness or have gone stark raving mad.  ~Norm Papernick~
Papernick forgot to cue in, one more. Those who can laugh (and smile and talk to themselves) without cause have either found the true meaning of happiness or have gone stark raving mad or are just plain in love. Agree ? Ask anyone who has been in that shoes. The shoes of being in love. It might have toned down with time, but the ground breaking moments would have been exactly that. Irrational laughter (and smiles) - in barrels, heaps and piles. 
I am uttering this once again. The kuthu genre has never been my cup of tea - with an exception of my all time favourite Ottha Sollale from Aadukalam. The one I am posting today is of that genre. I like it for putting me in a happy, breezy mood. Thanks to its awesome feet tapping rhythm. And, semma cute lyrics. 
Semma cute. Meaning, very cute. Semma cute is a word I use lots nowadays. He is one. Semma cute. I told him about him being one, last week. He was oblivious to is. How cavalier !!! But, I am happy. I want to be happy. This song keeps me. 
Come - enjoy this one with me. Good day, mate !!

Kaatril Varum Geethamey from Oru Naal Oru Kanavu

The great gift of family life is to be intimately acquainted with people you might never even introduce yourself to, had life not done it for you. ~Kendall Hailey~

I am blessed. With a wonderful family. And, I thank Him - for giving me a terrific one. This song reminds me of family. An extraordinary Carnatic one from the great IR. 

Spend some quality time with your family today. Ya. No one stands by you, like family. The strongest of institutions. 

Katrile Katrile from Madraspattinam

I Would Ask For Still More 

I would ask for still more, if I had the sky with all its stars, and the world with its endless riches; but I would be content with the smallest corner of this earth if only she were mine.......

Patience
If thou speakest not I will fill my heart with thy silence and endure it.
I will keep still and wait like the night with starry vigil
and its head bent low with patience.
The morning will surely come, the darkness will vanish,
and thy voice pour down in golden streams breaking through the sky.
Then thy words will take wing in songs from every one of my birds' nests,
and thy melodies will break forth in flowers in all my forest groves.
Tagore. Rabindranath Tagore. He penned them both. So very comforting. I like the alleviation it gives me. I miss my father. My India. And, a whole lot of things. Of mortal sense and sensibility. So perplexing. So constantly changing. If only I could comprehend them - life would be a breeze. 
I miss the country where my soul resides. My Bharatha Maatha. She awed me from day one. Still does. Love this song. For reminding of India. For 01:30 to 01:40. 

Maraka Mudiyavilai from Jaathi Malli

This song is NOT a love song - like the title suggests. It is a beautiful, decorous and nostalgic one, on things we cannot forget. Unornamented, I would say. Was browsing through YouTube, when this popped up. Watched the movie, many years back - while I was still at school. Cannot remember much about the movie - but, this song. 
Lyrics I cannot forget ? Five. As stated below, in the language I so love - Tamil.
1. எந்தன் உயிரே எந்தன் உயிரே கண்கள் முழுதும் உந்தன் கனவே, என்னை மறந்தேன் என்னை மறந்தேன் நெஞ்சம் முழுதும் உந்தன் நினைவே, சொல்லால் என்னை இழுத்தாய் பதிலாக உன்னை கொடுத்தாய், உலகத்தின் பூகலே உயிரிலே பூத்ததே, உன்னருகே நான் இருந்தால் உன்னருகே நான் இருந்தால்.
2. கொடியில அடிக்கிற மழையா, நீ என்ன நனச்சாயே, ஈரதுல அணைக்கிற சுகத்த, பார்வையில கொடுத்தாயே, பாதகத்து என்ன, ஒரு பார்வையால கொன்ன, ஊரோடு வாழுற போதும், யாரோடும் சேரல நான்.
3.மெல்லிய ஆண்மகனைப் பெண்ணுக்குப் பிடிக்காது முரடா உனை ரசித்தேன்
தொட்டதும் விழுந்துவிடும் ஆடவன் பிடிக்காது கர்வம் அதை மதித்தேன்.

4. உன் பார்வையில் ஓராயிரம், கவிதை நான் எழுதுவேன் காற்றில் நானே, நிதமும் உன்னை நினைக்கிறேன், நினைவினாலே அணைக்கிறேன்.

5. சொல்ல வந்த வார்த்தை சொன்ன வார்த்தை சொல்லப்போகும், வார்த்தை யாவும் நெஞ்சில் இனிக்கும், என்ன என்ன கேட்டு என்ன சொன்ன என்ன ஆனேன, இந்த மயக்கம் எங்கோ இழுக்குதே....

Good night. 

Oru Kanam Oru Yugam from Nadodi Thendral (Re-post)

IR and Janaki-Ma mesmerize in this number. Beautiful Tamil lyrics. Love the part, when the Maestro weaves in his magical voice at 03:05, the silence and the continuation he gives. That deep, husky, distinct voice like no other. One of my favourites, from the past, that is, current, too. Encore - for such a melody and immensely soothing lyrics. A Varey Vaah song. 
Have a great weekend. Yours truly is looking forward to one, and hopes the same for all of you out there. 

Ennathil Edho from Kallukkul Eeram

This is a must post. This song. And, on this day. I have my own reasons. 

Life is bewildering, on days. And, enlightening, on others. It was both - today. I do not know. I am dumbfounded - with everything that is transpiring in my life. Very unsettled, I would say. Change - tiny in alphabet counts but enormous in significance. An Unknown Author wrote this, "God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me." Sounded very comforting. What I need in large doses.

This song is from the 80's. A beautiful number. Very seemly for the position I am, today.....

Azhagey Un Mugam from Anthapuram

Some songs catch us unforeseen. This one, for instance. It is a plain but profound piece. I love the lyrics and the happy, catchy feel it brings. 

Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.  ~John Dryden~

Whatever Dryden quoted in English, this song accounts for in Tamil. Cheers.

Sami Kitta Solli from Daas

Intuition is a spiritual faculty and does not explain, but simply points the way.  
~Florence Scovel Shinn~
I have loads of work to do, but today is such a beautiful one. A national holiday. A drizzly, cold day. The weather here is awesome. And, I am enjoying being sluggish and indolent. 
I have been having intuitions - since morning. Strong ones. And, it is mystifying. The palpitations of my heart are unusual. It is, doubtlessly, a bizarre feeling. If only, I could explain. If only, anyone - else, could. 
It is still very much around. I am appeasing it by constantly stealing looks at my Lord Tirupathi picture, that sits right by my bedside. He calms and composes me. At all times. 
This song has been drumming on my mind since late evening. Nice one. A simple, lucid piece by Yuvan. With stirring lyrics. And effortlessly sung - with deep feelings and sentiments  - by Hariharan and Shreya Goshal. This is a repost actually. I have done this song, somewhere last year. But, since it has been sticking like a barnacle on my mind, I want to - again. 

Perunthil Nee Ennaku Jannal Oram from Pori

செல் போன் சிணுங்கிட குவுகிற கவனம் 
அன்பே அன்பே நீதானே ..... So apt .....
ஆள் இல்லா நல் இரவில் கேட்கும் பாடல்
அன்பே அன்பே நீயே ..... So true .....
I am grinning. All smiles. My heart is laughing - physically silent and thoughtfully blatant. Nijama. Nijama means really, in Tamil. Thanks to this song, that I found unintentionally. I was actually looking at a couple of songs on YouTube, when this one came to attention. Such a beautiful piece that I let slide from my posts. I heard this song the first time, the movie was released. Have it on my playlist, but today, it just glossed my heart, in ways, never before. What-a-song. And, the chemistry between the oh-so-adorably-cute-Jeeva and the petite-and gorgeous Pooja is excellent. Her playfulness scores a big 10. Semma romantic. Semma means very, in casual Tamil. I am smiling - yet again. The video itself is of great taste, candid and all unaffected. I am an ardent fan - of both, the song and the video - and the astonishing lyrics. Wow a thousand times. 
I am going to bed. With veiled smiles, a butterfly saturated heart, an orchestra playing this very song and overflowing thoughts of you-know-who. 
If you didn't, notice the first four lines of this post ? There are 5 dots before and after "So apt" and "So true". 5 dots. A dot each for an alphabet that spells his name. It is no big secret. 
His name is Mogan. 
Good night. 

Sirpi Sedukaatha from Ethirparathathu (1954)

I am yearning - to write. It is way past midnight. The weather is cold and chilly, thanks to a whole day of rain. A couple of songs, Tamil, of course, are playing, in the background, softly, in the drop dead silence of my bedroom.

It's funny how the littlest things can make you feel larger than life; the right lyrics, the most heartfelt melody, the clearest message. Love. This one is by Alex Gaskarth.  I so, agree.

I have heard this song - many years back. Appa used to hum this one, too. At that time, it did not seem so monumental. It does, now, though. The lyrics are moving. Just like what Gaskarth says. Love makes you notice the trivials. The microscopics. Really. It makes you notice the ignored and appreciate the neglected. It brings out the poet in you – spontaneously. Like this song. It has immense and epical lyrics. If only, you understood the depth of this song's Tamil lyrics. 

He is on my thoughts all the time. My father. The beautiful moments I shared with him, when he was still around - overwhelm and choke me at times. I miss him. I do. Always will. Happiness was aplenty back then. They are still ample, but the ones my father brought, are up, there, high on the pedestal. Mogan makes me laugh lots, now. Authentic, bona fide laughters. He has been busy with work lately. I understand. I am justifying his hectic duties. I am consoling my pining heart. Love is harder than what we think it is. The lyrics of this song are tailor made for present situation. Every and each word. Tamil words that illustrate my sentiments - perfectly. 

I miss my father. I know he is missing me, too. Without a doubt. I think of him all the time. I know he is thinking of me, too - from the heaven, up above. 

Adi Aathadi from Kadalora Kavithaigal

This is post 201. I cannot believe I have been this involved, in a blog. Had one, some years back, but deleted it after, like 20 posts or so. I am giving myself a pat on the shoulder. 
I rarely blog on weekdays - the laptop and the net, is miles away from my thought. But, if I am here today, then, it is solely, for this lyrics. ( The video is not of my liking, though) Heard this exact words by chance, and, it just brought in a sense of joy. And, IR's deep, throaty voice. Wow.....
தாகப்பட்ட நெஞ்சுக்குள்ள ஏகப்பட்ட சந்தோசம்
உண்ம சொல்லு பொண்ணே என்ன என்ன செய்ய உத்தேசம்
வார்த்த ஒண்ணு வாய்வரைக்கும் வந்துவந்து போவதென்ன
If you read Tamil, like yours truly, enjoy the moment the lyrics above come. ..... You will sure, smile. 
Have a good night, and continue that smile, into the beginning of the new day. Cheers.

Thaye Thaye from Kaathalar Kudiyirupu

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. 
~Washington Irving~


Dedicated to my mother. My Goddess Shakthi, in mortal form. 
For being there when I needed her most. For accepting me, flaws and all. For bearing all my tantrums, tempers, outbursts and madness. For forgiving me, my misconducts, sins and blunders. For relishing me, just the way I am. For blessing me and always praying and hoping for my very best. Thank you, so very, very much. 
I have always been Appa's child. That goes without saying. Everyone knows. Practically, everyone  - who know me in person. But these, same 'everyones', do not know some notable things. And, I guess, I need to own up, this Mother's Day. 
Amma,
After Appa's passing, you have been my Numero Uno. My mortal Goddess. I pray for you everyday. Pray for your wellbeing and happiness. Pray that you are always save, in the Almighty's arms. Pray that I get called back to the Almighty first. I want to be able to wait for you at the gates of Heaven, with Appa. Seriously and truthfully, I do. You are everything in my life. My pillar of support. The base on which my life is built. I cannot imagine a day without you, in my life. Appa's passing shattered my life. I do not think I will ever be able to bear another. God is listening, and I know, when our prayers are pure and taint-less, He will answer them, accordingly. 
Amma,
Thanks for everything. With a love like yours, everyday is Mother's Day. 
And, to the rest of the Mothers in the world - Have a blessed life. 

Vizhigalile Vizhigalile from Kullanari Kootam

I have finally managed to revamp my blog. As per my liking. It consumed a couple of my hours, and was exhausting and arduous. But, yours truly is pleased with outcome. Hope, you are too.
Watched this movie with my mum and sister, late last night. A wholesome love, comedy and family entertainer. A beautiful attempt.
I am hooked on this song. I fell for its simple melody and fascinating lyrics. It is what my mobile sings, every time I get a call. A calming and appeasing present day love song, that is not to be missed. Give it a try. You will, agree. 
Nitez. 

Kodi Kodi Aasaigal from Kathalar Kudiyirupu

Time flies. It was just the beginning of another new year,  a few days back. And, now, here we are, in the 5th month of the year. We had a longer weekend for Labour's Day, and yet, as said, time flies. Tomorrow comes Tuesday. The start of a new week. Another week, only shorter.

Love. It does wonders. It heals anything. Even when you are deserted and forsaken, love will stay around to nurture and uphold. You just need to believe, and have faith. In God, in love and everything you believe in.

I have a number of songs playing on my mind right now. All - very sentimental Tamil numbers. And, no they did not get rave reviews, from the mass. But, they did bait and charm me, though. 

I have requested for the DVD of this movie. Just waiting to get my hands on them. Read that it is based on a true story. Kathalar Kudiyirupu. The review sounded interesting, and so was the trailer. 

This song is a current must listen. Sentimental, sweet and soothing. Lyrics are soulful, euphonious and lilting. A "varey-vaaah" song. And, the video clip, is just so natural-but-out-of-world-romantic. Just what a dreamy, mushy and soppy person like yours truly, so very loves. 

Good day, mate !

Recommended Tamil Movies (2000-2011) for fellow zealots ...

I am, a brazen, good Tamil movie fan. I do not believe in big names and banners. A great storyline, done pleasantly, would please me lots. And, I am proud that the Tamil movie industry is evolving positively, with each passing day. We have been having a large number of good movies. Of lately. Good to those who believe in moral and ethics of stories - done tastefully. Movies like this rarely appeal to the mass, due to many factors. If you are a fellow zealot,  for  praiseworthy Tamil movies, read on. If you aren't, chances are you are not going to agree with me, on most of the names here. 

2000

Alaipayuthey by Maniratnam - Do not ever miss this. Ever. One of the most romantic Tamil movies ever released. I have watched it countless times, and I still love watching it. Will always do. This is purely gratifying. My utmost favourite. You will understand why I am super crazy about this one, when you do. A present day epic. MUST WATCH.

Kandukonden Kandukonden by Rajiv Menon - One more stunning movie. For a great storyline, an even greater picturisation, heart stopping songs and oh-so-natural acting. Wholesomely enticing.

Parthen Rasithen by Saran - A far cry from your usual Tamil story, this movie took me by surprise. Simran did a wonderful job. Watch it just for her. Do not want to spill the beans by commenting further.

Bharathi by Gnana Rajasekaran - The chronicles of the great Mahakavi Bharathiyar. You do not need to know him, to watch. Just do. It will move you and tug your heart strings. Such beautiful motion which went unnoticed by many.

2001

Azhagi by Thangar Bachan - Of first love, poverty, the importance of education, missed opportunities and parenthood, this is another mile stone in the Tamil film industry.

Kasi by Vinayan - Thumbs up for bold and courageous ending. The movie that brought Vikram to great heights.

Nandha by Bala – Another surprising storyline. Rameswaram is illustrated beautifully.

Paarthale Paravasam by K. Balachander - I am a devoted fan of KB. He is the dauntless director. All his movies have that lion heart feel. He is an ace at confronting taboo subjects. This one is a never before attempt in Tamil cinema.

Pandavar Boomi by Cheran – Cheran. Another of those distinctive directors. This movie portrays family relationships and friendship in new altitudes. A family entertainer that will sure enjoy.

2002

Anbe Sivam by Sundar C – An intensely emotional movie. It is startling to know the Tamil movie industry can actually come up with great ones like this. One that will make realize how short life can be, and why you should be thankful for each given day.

Five Star by Susi Ganesan – Another one of my favourites. Not just because of Prasanna’s cute, guy-next-door image, but for the more prominent reasons. Friendship, family, love, promises and affirmations and the strings that come attached. Another great movie that was glossed over by the mass.

Kannathil Muthamittal by Maniratnam – Oh God, where do I start, when it comes to this one? Emotionally breathtaking. Beautifully heart stirring. A truly awe inspiring Tamil movie. A wonderful one which touches on how far parents’ go to fulfill their child’s happiness. Sterling performance by P. S. Keerthana, R. Madhavan, Simran, Nandita Das, Pasupathy and Prakash Raj.

Solla Marantha Kathai by Thangar Bachan – A village based movie. On dignity, sacrifices and humiliation and how the downfalls of your life, is what strengthens you best.

2003

Iyarkai by Jeganathan – A surprising storyline. With Rameswaran as the backdrop setting. Said to be based on Dostoyevsky's "White Nights".

Kadhal Konden by Selvaragavan – This critically acclaimed Dhanush starrer took us all by surprise. For me, it is still of the his best. A movie which will make you sit up and applaud the assuring Tamil film industry.  

Kaaka Kaaka by Gautham Menon – Do I need to elaborate on this one? The perfect dosage of everything the industry needed.

2004

7G Rainbow Colony by Selvaragavan – Again. Critically acclaimed as well as a commercial success, this one moved us all to tears. A movie which would make you evaluate life, and how short it can actually be.

Aayutha Ezhuthu by Maniratnam – I love this movie despite it themed practically on politics in contemporary India. My favourite character, is that of the notorious Inba by R. Madhavan. An overall good movie which did not sit well with the mass.

Azhagiye Teeye by Radha Mohan – It is sad to know that this movie did not become a success, monetarily as well as vice versa. I still believe this is one great movie. Clean, wholesome and a beautiful, fresh storyline. If you believe in good movies, this is a must watch. I still would, anytime given. A simple movie that took me by huge surprise.

Chellamey by A.R Gandhikrishna – Another good one. Believed to be one of 2004’s highest grossing flims. A radical narration of how too much of love can turn harmful.

Devathai Kanden by Boopathi Pandian – This movie scored a big 10 in my books, for its inspiriting climax. Watch. You will understand.

Kaathal by Balaji Saktivel – A beautiful true, love story that took Tamil Nadu by storm.

Vaanam Vasapadum by P.C Sriram – Despite having a number of reputed actors and actresses, this movie failed as a commercial success, most probably due to its gory storyline. A shocking and staggering screenplay.

      2005

      ABCD by Saravana Suppiah – A bouncy and energetic movie with a forward looking and open minded ending. An optimist’s cup of tea.

Kanda Naal Muthal by V.Priya – Yours truly’s top 5 favourites, undoubtedly. I love this movie for everything. If you love it just as what I did and still do, then we stand a chance of a decent affiliation.

The chemistry and the revulsion between Prasanna and Laila were so naturally, awesome. Must watch. Special mention for the last 30 minutes, which will keep you nail biting and on your toes, wondering what will happen and what will not. Did I say “Must Watch”?. Ya. Rephrasing.

Thavamai Thavamirundhu by Cheran – A father’s love know no boundaries, just like a mother’s. Most movies root on the latter, but Cheran went the mile, and focused on the former. A beautiful story like no other. Applauds for being a benchmark.

      2006

      Sillunu Oru Kaadhal by N. Krishna – Another great screenplay. The hero’s past and present love life was justified charmingly. How can you go wrong, when love is the subject ?

      2007

      Mozhi by Radha Mohan – A super hit at the box office and one that is critically acclaimed. Do not miss this for anything. A feel good movie, that would move you to tears and leap in joy. An all time favourite.

      Periyaar by Gnana Rajasekaran – Just like Bharathi, you do not need to know him to watch. On the life of social reformer, Periyar E. V. Ramasamy. Standing ovations for this one.

      Karuppusamy Kuthagaikaarar by Moorthy – I am recommending this movie for a couple of reasons. The importance of education for a women. The significance of family support in our undertakings. The emphasis on respecting elders. The gravity of love in our life. Karan deserves a special mention for the dialogues he delivers during the final moments of the movie. So does, the lyrics of the beautiful “Uppu Kallu” song.

      Satham Podathey by Vasanth – Everyone has rave reviews about this movie. A spine chiller that would keep you glued until the very end.

      Katrathu Tamil by Ram – This would be my Number 2 favourite. Reasons are unnecessary. And, the fact that this movie was not a commercial success, least bothers me. This is for the judicial, level headed, sensible and balanced ones. Everyone who isn’t would never be able to appreciate a movie as moving as this. I could write pages about this one. Jeeva astounded me with his performance, as did Anjali. Everything about the movie is beautiful, including the barren but panoramic Maharasthra.

      Kaloori by Balaji Sakthivel – Many college themed movies released after this one, but none were as good as what it was. An emotional movie that would tug your heart, hours after you have finished.

      2008

      Vaaranam Aayiram by Gautham Menon – No comments. The movie speaks for itself. If you have not watched, shame on you. That is all I have to say.

      Anjaathey by Myshkin – Another praiseworthy attempt. Special mention for a deserving cast and a new, out of the box storyline.

      Kannum Kannum by Marimuthu – An emotional screenplay. How fate schemes despite everything we plan. A good movie which did not appeal to the mass.

      Subramaniapuram by Sasikumar - This low budget film received critical acclaim for its original script, expert direction, screenplay, editing, accurate sets and costumes to resurrect Madurai from the 1980s. and all that done, with relatively new actors.

      Dhanam by Siva – A stormy storyline you would never have expected to come, from the Tamil film industry. This is a rare gem. Sangeetha earned rave reviews for her portrayal of Dhanam.

      Raman Thediya Seethai by Jeganath – Another feel good movie you can enjoy with anyone. This movie will put a smile on your face long after you have finished.

      Seval by Hari – A twist in the tale movie which I believe was a good and novel attempt.

      Bommalaatam by Bharathiraja – You would be thrown in a tizzy with the way this movie concludes. A puzzling and bewildering storyline.

      Abiyum Naanum by Radha Mohan – If this movie does not move you tears, then you must be intolerant, stony and callous. Parenthood at its best.

      2009

Venilla Kabadi Kuzhu by Susindran – I liked this movie although many considered it to be much of a bore. Good movies do not need big names. This one proved so. Set in a rural and remote village, emphasizing on a Kabadi, a Tamil sport activity, with a clean, no hush love story – this is brisk and refreshing.

Siva Manasula Sakthi by Rajesh – A full length comedy. Jeeva and Anuya had the huge chemistry that made the entire movie worthwhile. A must see, if all you want to do is laugh and roll with joy.

Kunguma Poovum Konjum Puraavum by Rajamohan – I hold this movie in high esteems. I think it was a wonderful attempt. The newcomers were naturals. The flow of the story was good. And, the songs were amazing. A Tamil sparkler.

Pasanga by Pandiraj – The movie I recommend to everyone. This is like a directors dream. It earned high critical acclaims, bagging three National Film Awards and several other awards at International Film Festivals. A simple storyline involving two foes who eventually become friends. There are so many heart touching scenes in the movie. You can watch the numerous times and not get bored. Believe me.

Nadodigal by Samuthrakanni – I am a Samuthrakanni fan. I think he oozes appeal and charm. Like the flow of his movies, as well as his acting abilities, but unsure on the way he handles his mega serials. His movies score a big 10, to me, though. This movie was a super hit, thanks to its original screenplay. Not your norm Tamil movie. Give it a try. It is definitely worth the watch.

Pokkisham by Cheran – How could the mass not appreciate a pure, love story like this ? It is, indeed, very hard to please the Indian audience. This movie is a classic. Slow paced but nevertheless, one priceless production, not to be missed. You need to be artistic and broad minded to enjoy this.

Eeram by Arivazhagan – A very good Tamil thriller. The movie progresses well and will keep you glued and wondering, what will happen next. A good bet on a day when you need something surprising.

Unnai Pol Oruvan by Chakri Tholeti – Terrorism countered at its best. Kamal is among the very few who can put and relay things in a logical manner. That is what he did in this movie. Another fact paced movie that will keep you seated until the end.

Yogi by Subramania Siva – Many disagreed with me on this one. But, like told earlier, I am not here to write about mass favoured movies. I am writing about those with  zeal, and distinct and impromptu. This fits the bill, perfectly. On how the arrival of  a kidnapped child changes everything in a rebel’s life. Ameer and Madhumita awed me with their outstanding performance.

Renigunta by R. Paneerselvam – Again, people thought I must be crazy to actually recommend this movie. They said that it looked dirty and the actors were a messy lot. For heaven’s sake, movies are supposed to be done with a huge sense of reality. If you want something prim and proper, then, you are not of my taste. Despite the grueling violence this movie had, the final moral of the story is a brilliant message to the youth out there. A valuable movie that you should not miss.

2010

Angadi Theru by Vasanthabalan – A gem of a movie. A quantum leap in the Tamil film industry. There were many parts of this movie that moved me to tears. It was done in such great taste that missing this one would be equivalent to missing the entire contemporary Tamil movie industry. Wholesomely gratifying. This is one which will make you see life in a whole new dimension.

Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa by Gautham Menon – Everyone’s favourite love story of 2010. Simbu at his best, to date, I would say.

Raavanan by Maniratnam – I was never a fan of Vikram until this one. The performance he gave was intense and mind boggling. It is only Mani Ratnam who can do justice to special issues like these.
Madrasapattinam by A.L.Vijay – The movie I so love. An amazing story. The pre-Indian-Independence era was pictured beautifully. And, such heartwarming Tamil songs, with exquisite Tamil lyrics. I was definitely bowled over.  
Boss Engira Bhaskaran by M.Rajesh – A full length comedy. Enjoyed it to the very last despite many finding it a way bit annoying. Tastes differ.

Easan by Sasikumar – An audacious attempt that went unnoticed. The lives of the rich and famous in present day Chennai. Special mention for Dushy (Jayaprakash)’s acting as Easan, himself. A moving screenplay, which will make you wish that life could be fairer to those who are not financially endowed.

Naan Mahaan Alla by Susindran – There is only one thing I want to say about this movie. The gallant, daring and headstrong ending.

Kalavani by Sargunam – Another original screenplay, set in a rural backdrop. Lots of funny moments. The hero charms with his witty ways. This is a good one, which again, did not appeal to the mass.

Aval Peyar Thamizharasi by Meera Kathiravan – This is a 2010 surprise. A sad tale of love between a puppeteer’s daughter and the grandson of a rich man and how love can actually make you do the cruelest of things.

Naanayam by Shakti S. Rajan – A modern day Tamil thriller which was done tastefully. It will keep you guessing until the end.

Baana Kathadi by Badri Venkat – I liked this movie for the untainted friendship and love between the hero and heroine, which was done with grace and purity. Nothing to shout about, but a relatively good one.

Inidhu Inidhu by K.V Guhan – 8 newcomers in a movie, but they aced themselves through like old timers. They were just downright natural. A great movie which received rave reviews from many.

Drohi by Sudha K Prasad – I am a “Drohi” buff. Vishnu and Srikanth won me over with their outstanding performance. I think this movie is worth every moment.
Mynaa by Prabu Solomon - Beautiful everything. The storyline. The scenic location. The childhood love. The songs. The emotions. The what-it-is-like-to-have-a-soul-mate movie. 

2011

Aadukalam by Vetrimaran – I am an ardent fan of this movie, and of Dhanush. I look forward to this winning many awards. An awesome storyline completed with a sterling performance. And, evergreen, lovable songs. Must watch.

Yuddham Sei by Myshkin – A new age Tamil thriller. A whodunit. You will be surprised by the outcome. Slow moving and confusing at times, but a good watch.

Nadunissi Naaygal from Gautham Menon – Rather gruesome for a Tamil movie, but Gautham Menon must be praised for his brave attempt. Fairly good despite the brickbats he received from his South Indian fans.

Kathalar Kudiyirupu by A.M.R Ramesh – I watched this a few days back, and thought it had a real good storyline. This movie is practically invisible when you search the web. I caught the trailer by chance, and found way to watch it. The hero and heroine were candid and forthright despite being debutantes. I have been recommending this to many of my friends, of lately, without much response. Zealots are becoming extinct, I guess.

Kullanari Koottam by Sribalaji – A current must watch. Vishnu continues to amaze me. He is a promising actor. A normal love story with a beautiful twist. A comedy and a family entertainer. 

The 2011 & 2012 updates are over here. Do read, as well.
http://ennakupidithapaadal.blogspot.com/2012/12/recommended-tamil-movies-2011-2012-for.html

And, the 2013 updates.
http://ennakupidithapaadal.blogspot.com/2014/01/2013-tamil-movies-retrospect-laurels.html

And, 2014. :-)
http://ennakupidithapaadal.blogspot.com/2015/01/2014-tamil-movies-songs-characters.html