In Indian cinema, most of the movies end with the hero marrying his lady love and walking away happily into the sunset. This leaves the rest for the audience to speculate and wonder. However, there are a number of film makers in Tamil who have portrayed human relationships in new light with their movies.
These films have been widely loved and accepted by the audience for their diverse storyline and one that seems closer to real life.
Here is our pick of some Tamil movies that have successfully explored love in its varying shades and enamored the audience.
Iru Malargal
Starring “Nadigar Thilagam” Sivaji Ganesan, Padmini and K.R. Vijaya in the lead roles, this film portrays the confusion of a married man who is caught in between his loving wife and his long lost love who suddenly ventures back into his life, that too unmarried. The turmoil of the characters has been beautifully portrayed by the three actors and depth with which director A.C. Tirulokchandar narrated the story is what made this controversial plot an endearing one. Soul stirring music by M.S. Viswanathan is the icing on the cake.
Avargal
Considered to be way ahead of its times when it hit the theaters, the film was nevertheless accepted by the audience. With Sujatha being the main protagonist of the film, it depicts the plight of a divorcee woman who is intertwined in a relationship with her ex-boyfriend but at the same time is mentally tortured by her ex-husband. Ravi Kumar and Rajnikant played the roles of the lover and the husband with Kamal Haasan adding to the love triangle. The inner turmoil of the protagonist and her confusion have been beautifully portrayed in the film directed by K. Balachander.
Mudhal Mariyadhai
Directed by Bharathiraja, this movie portrays the love of an older and much married man for a young woman. Sivaji Ganesan plays the role of the man who is depressed in his marriage. He finds some peace in the company of the daughter of the village boatman and ultimately falls in love with her. The role of the young woman was played by the beautiful Radha. The storyline was a controversial one, but the director with his subtle touch added beauty to it without making it look vulgar. Sivaji Ganesan on the other hand with his powerful performance further enhanced the charm of the film.
Mouna Raagam
A masterpiece by Mani Ratnam, this movie revolves around a married couple played by Mohan and Revathy, who are unable to lead a happy life due to shadow of the past love of the wife lurking large on their relationship. However, the husband finally manages to make his way into his wife’s heart. Karthik too had a substantial role in the film. Amazing music by Ilayaraja and fabulous performances by the lead actors is what made this movie a success among the audience.
Autograph
Directed by Cheran with him in the lead, this movie revolves around the various love relationships of a man during the different phases of his life, none of which culminate into marriage. The relationships include a school romance, a college affair and one in the later years when he is struggling to find a foothold in his life. All the relations have been beautifully depicted and the actresses Mallika, Gopika and Sneha along with Cheran have acted impressively.
These films with their diverse portrayal of relationships changed the way Tamil audience viewed love and marriage.
