Rajinikanth's Forgotten Masterpiece: Mullum Malarum, the Movie that Sparked a Cinematic Revolution
When discussing the global phenomenon that is Rajinikanth, it's easy to focus on his larger-than-life persona and iconic roles in masala movies such as Billa and Muruthai Kalai. However, the real cinematic gem that set Rajinikanth on his path to stardom was the 1978 film Mullum Malarum.
A Turning Point for Tamil Cinema
Many believe that the success of Mullum Malarum came from its action-packed scenes and plot-driven narrative. However, the true significance lies in the subtle and artful manner in which Rajinikanth portrayed his character.
Before Mullum Malarum, many film producers and directors were hesitant to give opportunity to dark-skinned actors, considering them unsuitable for leading roles. Director J. Mahendran, however, stood firm in his belief that a role would be perfect for Rajinikanth. Overcoming producer objections, he continued his involvement in the project, leading to one of the most significant performances in early 1970s Tamil cinema.
Against All Odds
Mullum Malarum had a challenging initial reception. Despite Rajinikanth's talent and the director's passion, the movie was not hyped for release. Furthermore, another blockbuster, Kizhakke Pogum Rail (released five days before Mullum Malarum), was expected to dominate theatrical runs. However, the movie's solid direction, well-reviewed acting, and compelling storyline saw it through, running for over 175 days in theaters. Its success marked a turning point for Rajinikanth's career, as it showcased the power of subtle, nuanced acting.
The Impact on Acting in Tamil Cinema
The subtle acting style Rajinikanth showcased in Mullum Malarum had a profound impact on the acting in Tamil cinema. Prior to this, actors often relied on theatrical, over-the-top acting styles that lacked naturalness. Following this movie, there was a noticeable shift towards more realistic and naturalistic acting in Tamil films.
Notably, even MGR (M.S. Dhoni), a former super star and then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, praised Rajinikanth’s performance. The recognition from MGR, a figure of immense respect in the industry, highlighted the impact of Rajinikanth's performance. K. Balachander, a renowned director, also expressed immense pride in introducing Rajinikanth to Tamil cinema, marking this as a historic moment in the evolution of the art.
The Aftermath
Despite Mullum Malarum laying the foundation for Rajinikanth’s acting prowess, the following years saw the actor veering towards more action and spectacle in his films. There has not been a single blockbuster in Rajinikanth’s filmography since then where pure acting is prominent. Mullum Malarum remains a powerful reminder of what one person, driven by artistic vision, can achieve in cinema. It serves as a poignant contrast to the streams of action-packed sequels and remakes that have come to define Rajinikanth's career.
Conclusion
The story of Mullum Malarum is far more than just a tale of a successful movie. It’s a prime example of the power of subtle, nuanced acting and how it can shape and transform an entire genre. Rajinikanth's journey from a struggling actor to an all-time superstar owes much to his performance in Mullum Malarum, a film that continues to inspire actors and filmmakers in the Indian film industry.
For film enthusiasts and fans of Rajinikanth, Mullum Malarum is a must-watch. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most transformative moments in cinema come from unexpected places and are often underappreciated.