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“Dasavatharam” is a Tamil-language science fiction action film that was released on June 13, 2008. Directed by K. S. Ravikumar and written by Kamal Haasan, the movie stands out for featuring Haasan in ten distinct roles, a feat unparalleled in Indian cinema. This ambitious project intertwines themes of science, religion, and action, offering viewers a complex and engaging narrative.
Plot Summary
The film’s storyline revolves around Govind, a dedicated scientist who discovers the potential dangers of a newly developed bio-weapon. In a desperate attempt to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands, he embarks on a mission to secure the vial containing the deadly substance. However, unforeseen events lead the vial to India, setting off a chain reaction of events that span across time and geography. As Govind races against time to avert a catastrophic disaster, the narrative delves into various historical and contemporary scenarios, highlighting the interconnectedness of events and actions.
What’s Good?
One of the most commendable aspects of “Dasavatharam” is Kamal Haasan’s extraordinary performance in ten diverse roles. Each character, ranging from a 12th-century priest to a modern-day scientist, is portrayed with distinct mannerisms, accents, and appearances, showcasing Haasan’s versatility and dedication to his craft.
Director K. S. Ravikumar masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, ensuring that the complex narrative remains coherent and engaging. The screenplay seamlessly transitions between different time periods and locations, maintaining a steady pace that keeps the audience invested.
The musical score, composed by Himesh Reshammiya, complements the film’s diverse moods and settings. Songs like “Kallai Mattum” and “Mukundha Mukundha” resonate with the audience, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.
Cinematographer Ravi Varman’s visual storytelling is another highlight, capturing the essence of various eras and locales with finesse. The film’s action sequences are choreographed with precision, adding to the overall thrill and excitement.
Strengths and Weaknesses
“Dasavatharam” excels in its ambitious storytelling and the sheer scale of its production. The film’s exploration of chaos theory and the butterfly effect is thought-provoking, prompting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of individual actions.
However, the film’s complexity can be a double-edged sword. Some viewers might find the multiple plotlines and characters challenging to follow, leading to potential confusion. Additionally, while the visual effects were groundbreaking at the time, certain sequences may appear dated to contemporary audiences accustomed to more advanced CGI.
Target Audience
“Dasavatharam” caters to a wide audience, particularly those who appreciate intricate narratives and character-driven stories. Fans of Kamal Haasan will find his multifaceted performance especially rewarding. The film also appeals to viewers interested in science fiction, historical dramas, and action-packed sequences.
Box Office Details
“Dasavatharam” was produced on an estimated budget of ₹1.4 billion, making it one of the most expensive Indian films at the time of its release. The film garnered significant attention and achieved commercial success, grossing approximately ₹2 billion worldwide.
While specific day-wise earnings for the first five days are not readily available, the film’s strong opening and positive word-of-mouth contributed to its impressive box office performance.
Recommendation
“Dasavatharam” stands as a testament to Kamal Haasan’s versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of Indian cinema. Its intricate plot, combined with stellar performances and technical excellence, makes it a must-watch for enthusiasts of innovative storytelling and dynamic character portrayals.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Dasavatharam |
| Genre | Science Fiction Action |
| Release Date | June 13, 2008 |
| Director | K. S. Ravikumar |
| Lead Actor | Kamal Haasan (portraying ten distinct roles) |
| Music Composer | Himesh Reshammiya |
| Cinematographer | Ravi Varman |
| Budget | ₹1.4 billion |
| Box Office Collection | Approximately ₹2 billion worldwide |
| Target Audience | Fans of complex narratives, Kamal Haasan enthusiasts, and lovers of science fiction and action films |
Note: The above table summarizes key details about the film “Dasavatharam.”
Genres:
Action, Adventure
Rating:
6.5/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Kamal Haasan | Govindarajan Ramaswamy / Rangaraja Nambi / George W. Bush / Avtaar Singh / Balram Naidu / Christian Fletcher / Shinghen Narahasi / Krishnaveni / Vincent Poovaragavan / Kalifullah Mukhtaar |
| Asin Thottumkal | Kodhai Radha / Andal |
| Mallika Sherawat | Jasmine |
| Jaya Prada | Ranjitha Singh |
| Napoleon | Kulothunga Chola II |
| P. Vasu | J. Ragavendra (Jaa Raa) |
| Raghuram | Appa Rao |
| Chakri Toleti | Sairam |
| Shammu | Assistant Biotechnologist |
| M. S. Bhaskar | Broadway Kumar |
| Vaiyapuri | Prabhu |
| Chitti Babu | Ekambaram |
| Santhana Bharathi | J. Ragavendra’s brother-in-law |
| Sundarrajan | Member of Legislative Assembly |
| Nagesh | Sheikh Mukhtaar |
| K R Vijaya | Megha Mukhtaar |
| Ramesh Khanna | Doctor |
| David W. Scott | Lab Tech / Detective |
| Brian Jennings | Chief of Home Land Security |
| Rekha | Meenakshi Ragavendra |
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