If there is one film in Tamil Cinema with the most re-watch value, it has to be the 2004 Vijay starrer Ghilli. Even though it’s a remake of the Telugu movie Okkadu, the Tamil adaptation made waves with its massive opening and continues to be a favorite for viewers whenever it airs on TV. Such is its enduring popularity that, 20 years on, the film is being re-released and still draws audiences. For those who prefer streaming, Ghilli is also available on the Sun NXT OTT app.
What Sets Ghilli Apart from the Rest?
As we mark 20 years since this blockbuster hit the screens, let’s jump into the story that sets Ghilli apart from the rest. In Madurai for a regional Kabaddi match, Velu, an up-and-coming player, finds himself entangled in a complex situation. He intervenes to rescue Dhanalakshmi from Muthupandi, a formidable man determined to marry her against her will. The story is straightforward, yet layered with complexities: Velu is an average guy, while Muthupandi wields considerable power. Dhanalakshmi, innocent and anxious, is often at the mercy of Muthupandi. Their paths converge in a high-stakes scenario, leading to intense action sequences.
A STAR-STUDDED CAST
Just having a mass action-packed story with commercial elements is not what made this film a superhit. The supporting cast that does an excellent job perfectly complements the story. Vijay as Saravanavelu aka “Velu” / Ghilli (Nickname), Trisha as Dhanalakshmi, Ashish Vidyarthi as DCP Sivasubramaniam IPS, Tanikella Bharani as Minister Rajapandi, and Janaki Sabesh as Janaki, Velu’s Mother. Each actor brings depth and credibility to their characters, enhancing the overall viewing experience. But the major credit has to be for Prakash Raj as Muthupandi, he eats up the role leaving no crumbs left behind. His quirky actions and threat-inducing dialogues bring the sense of a serious villain.
THE POWER OF MUSIC IN GHILLI
The next and most crucial element of the film’s success is the music. The music was composed by Vidhyasagar. An extremely powerful music in the introduction scene, the soulful background music for the love sequences, and the chartbuster songs were all masterfully done by Vidhyasagar. Not even one song is dull, and the “Appadi Podu” song became a national hit. The music elevates the emotions and intensifies the impact of every scene, making it a memorable experience for the audience.
THALAPATHY VIJAY’S PERFORMANCE IN GHILLI
Lastly, the performance of Thalapathy Vijay deserves special mention. The amount of charm and mass he carries in this role is impeccable. Whether it’s the intro dialogue, the cute family sequences, or the epic action scenes in the climax, Vijay delivers exactly what is required for a classic commercial film. His portrayal of Velu strikes a chord with the audience, making him a memorable and beloved character. Thalapathy Vijay’s star power shines through in Ghilli, further cementing his position as one of the biggest stars in Tamil Cinema.
GHILLI MOVIE ON SUN NXT
For those who want to relive the magic of Ghilli or experience it for the first time, the film is now available on Sun NXT, a popular OTT platform. Sun NXT provides a convenient way to stream Tamil movies and TV shows, including Ghilli, at your own leisure. Simply download the Sun NXT app and enjoy the captivating story, powerful performances, and memorable music of Ghilli right from the comfort of your own home.
In conclusion, as Ghilli celebrates its 20th year anniversary, it remains a shining example of a redefined commercial film in Tamil Cinema. Its enduring popularity, engaging storyline, stellar cast, exceptional music, and Thalapathy Vijay’s remarkable performance all contribute to its status as a classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, Ghilli is a must-watch film that continues to entertain and captivate audiences even after two decades. Experience the magic of Ghilli on Sun NXT today! Download the app and stream now.