Like the city Madras, its films have also evolved over the years. Having made it into the list of top 10 cosmopolitan cities in the world, namma Chennai invokes pride in its residents. Chennai and Tamil films have long been inseparable, and the city has opened its doors to stalwarts like Sivaji Ganesan, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Ajith, Vijay amd Suriya among many others. With Madras Week celebrations underway, we look at a compilation of special films that have depicted the city in different ways, while staying true to its identity.
Vinnaithaandi Varuvaya: location: ECR, Besant Nagar and Kottivakkam
This romantic film, starring STR and Trisha, is Gautham Menon’s take on modern love. In this film, several scenes are set in resto-pubs and the beach road in ECR, which is still a pleasant treat to the eyes. The pair’s cosy little house situated in Kottivakkam became an overnight sensation.
Madras: Location: Vyasarapadi housing board
Director Pa Ranjith has created a name for himself with his true-to-life depictions of politics. In this film, he brings to light the lives of hundreds of families living in a crooked housing board. Politicians, the craze for politics, hip-hop dance, and football are some of the key elements of the Vyasarapadi area.
Pudhupettai: Location: Pudhupettai
Set in the slums of Pudhupettai in Chennai, this film shows the rise and fall of a ruffian. Even in the 80’s, Pudhupettai was considered a shady place with a high crime right. Director Selvaraghavan's portrayal of the ruffian and the area was highly realistic and earned a lot of acclaim.
Aayutha Ezhuthu: Location: Napier Bridge, ECR
This is one of Mani Ratnam's most revolutionary movies. The concept of youngsters in politics along with its drawbacks was well-crafted. The scene in which Suriya gets shot by Madhavan on Napier Bridge still lingers in everyone's minds. Who can forget the exotic Hey Good Bye Nanba and the groovy Yaakai Thiri ?
Madrasapattinam: Location: Old Madras
This period drama, directed by Vijay, takes us on a trip down memory lane. The 80’s and 90's kids have seen old Madras only through photographs. Through this film, we get to see glimpses of the famous clock tower, the tram, the clean Coovam river, Mount Road, and the iconic Central station.
CHENNAI 600028: Location: Royapuram
Venkat Prabhu's path-breaking film on gully cricket is a must-watch on every movie buff's list. Prabhu changed the opinion of the audience about Royapuram by showing a loving and innocent side of the dwellers in the area. You can find laughter, love, betrayal, and a lot of cricket in this film.
7aam Arivu: Location: Gemini circus, IIT Madras, MGM Dizee World
AR Murugadoss's storytelling usually includes social messages, and 7aam Arivu is no different. This film portrayed the lesser known Gemini circus, MGM theme park, and IIT Madras onscreen. Remember the Oh Ringa Ringa song shot in all the happening places in the city including Elliot's Beach, Ranganathan Street, and Express Avenue?
Angadi Theru: Location: Ranganathan street and T Nagar
Very few films have made T Nagar their backdrop. Angadi Theru, directed by Vasanthabalan, highlights the true essence of T Nagar. Right from the busy Ranganathan street to the over-crowded textile shops, he has covered it all. Apart from the crowded streets of T Nagar, we also get to see the parks in Ashok Nagar and the pitiable lives of roadside dwellers.
