2006 Indian film
Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam (transl. The Divine Game begins) is a 2006 Indian Tamil-language romantic comedy film written and directed by Boopathy Pandian. The film stars Dhanush and Shriya Saran, while Prakash Raj, Karunas and Saranya Ponvannan play supporting roles. The film, which had music composed by D. Imman, was released on 15 December 2006. It was remade in Telugu as Takkari (2007), and in Kannada as Dhool (2011).
Plot
Thirukumaran is a carefree, laid-back man. He falls in love with Priya, the sister of Guru, a wealthy business tycoon. The story is about a cat-and-mouse game between Thiru and Guru, who is against Thiru and Priya's love. Thiru wins the game at the end.
Production
The film was announced in late August 2005 with Boopathy Pandian and Dhanush coming together after a previous collaboration in Devathayai Kanden (2005). Pandian had previously discussed the role with Bharath, but the actor's refusal meant that Dhanush was chosen.[1][2] Shriya Saran, who rose to fame in Tamil films after her role in Mazhai, was signed after Jyothika opted out due date clashes, as the heroine and the film was titled as Naveena Thiruvilayadal, though the prefix was later dropped.[3] The following September, actor Sivaji Ganesan's fan club requested the film's producer, Vimala Geetha, to change the name of the film Thiruvilayadal. They had felt that the title was reminiscent of Ganesan's 1965 film of the same name, and felt that the new venture would defame the old film.[4] The new film was subsequently retitled Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam.[5]
K. Bhagyaraj was initially pencilled in to play Dhanush's father, but was later replaced by Mouli due to the delay of the film.[6] Saran was forced to opt out of the film in October 2005 owing to her commitment to work in Sivaji: The Boss.[7] Reports suggested that either Tamannaah Bhatia or Ileana may be approached to replace her, while the film's inactivity led to rumours that the film was cancelled. However, in January 2006, Boopathy Pandian confirmed that the film would continue and the remaining portions would be swiftly completed.[8] Saran however returned to work on the film after she was able to allot dates.[9]
Soundtrack
The soundtrack was composed by D. Imman and was released on 13 October 2006.[10] It includes a remixed version of the song "Ennama Kannu" composed by Ilaiyaraaja for the film Mr. Bharath (1986).[11]
Release and reception
The film was released on 15 December 2006.[citation needed] Shwetha Bhaskar of Rediff.com noted that "Director Boopathy Pandian has a looser hold on pacing, ensuring that the interest never flags", adding that "the real reason to watch Thiruvilaiyadal Aarambam is Dhanush, who epitomises the new age hero: he is no superman, he is not even close to perfect, and he is thoroughly unapologetic about it all."[12] Another critic from Indiaglitz mentioned that "Bhoopathy Pandian has a fair grasp of what makes an entertainer click with the comedy. His simple handling of an easy subject sees it through."[13] Sify cited that "Dhanush as the hyperactive Thiru is simply superb and his ability to deliver funny lines casually is uncommendable. Prakash Raj does his role to perfection, while Shriya looks good and her costumes are fabulous."[14] Lajjavathi of Kalki praised Bhoopathi Pandian for narrating a simple plot in an interesting and humorous manner within three hours while praising the performances of Dhanush and Prakash Raj and the clashes between them, dialogues and music.[15]
The film grossed ₹100 million (US$1.3 million) in Tamil Nadu – the highest grosser for actor Dhanush at that time.[16][17] Post-release after being offended by a remark in the film, the Bank of Baroda contemplated taking action against the film by trolling their bank name which ultimately spoils their bank's name.[18]
Remakes
In 2007, the film was remade in Telugu as Takkari.[19] It was also remade and released in Kannada as Dhool in 2011, with Prakash Raj reprising his role.[20][21]
