Mersal (film)

Mersal film poster

Mersal is a 2017 Indian Tamil-language action film directed by Atlee Kumar, commonly known as Atlee. The film stars Vijay in a triple role, alongside S.J. Suryah, Kajal Aggarwal, Samantha Akkineni, and Nithya Menen. Produced by Thenandal Studio Limited, Mersal is one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time. The film's music was composed by A.R. Rahman, with cinematography by G.K. Vishnu and editing by Ruben.

Plot

Mersal tells the story of two brothers, Vetri and Maaran, who are separated at birth and grow up in different environments. Vetri becomes a magician, and Maaran is a doctor. They come together to avenge their father's death, who was killed by a corrupt medical industry magnate.

Production

The film was announced in 2016, with Atlee teaming up with Vijay for the second time after their successful collaboration in Theri. The production involved extensive research and was shot in various locations, including Chennai, Rajasthan, and Europe. The film's budget was one of the highest for a Tamil film at the time of its release.

Music

The soundtrack and background score were composed by A.R. Rahman, marking his second collaboration with Vijay after Udhaya. The music received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, with tracks like "Aalaporan Tamizhan" becoming anthems.

Release and Reception

Mersal was released on 18 October 2017, coinciding with the Diwali festival. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised Vijay's performance, the film's direction, and its music. The film was a commercial success, grossing over 250 crore worldwide.

Controversies

The film faced controversies over its portrayal of the GST and the Indian medical industry, leading to debates and discussions in the political arena. However, these controversies only increased the public interest in Mersal.

Awards and Nominations

Mersal received numerous awards and nominations, particularly for its direction, music, and Vijay's performance in a triple role. It won awards at the National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards South, and Vijay Awards, among others.

Legacy

Mersal is considered a significant film in Vijay's career and in Tamil cinema for its critical and commercial success. It has been praised for its social message, technical excellence, and entertainment value, making it a landmark film in the industry.