Pudhumai Pithan (1959) Review in 2025
Pudhumai Pithan is a 1959 Indian Tamil-language drama film directed by K. S. Gopalakrishnan, starring Sivaji Ganesan and Padmini. The movie is a classic tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a small village in Tamil Nadu.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be suitable for very young children due to some mature themes and scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of Tamil cinema, particularly those who enjoy classic dramas and romances. It's a beautifully shot film with memorable performances and a strong narrative. If you're a fan of Sivaji Ganesan or Padmini, you won't want to miss this one.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around the life of a young man named Siva, who falls in love with a woman named Meenakshi, but their love is forbidden due to their different social backgrounds. Siva decides to marry Meenakshi, but their happiness is short-lived as they face numerous challenges and obstacles, including the disapproval of Meenakshi's family and the societal norms of the time. In the end, Siva makes a heroic sacrifice to save Meenakshi, and the movie ends on a poignant note.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong narrative that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The plot is well-structured, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, and the characters' motivations are well-developed.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Sivaji Ganesan delivering a standout performance as the protagonist. Padmini also shines as the female lead, bringing depth and nuance to her character. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with memorable performances from the entire ensemble.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Sivaji Ganesan delivering a standout performance as the protagonist. Padmini also shines as the female lead, bringing depth and nuance to her character. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with memorable performances from the entire ensemble.
direction9.00/10
The direction is superb, with K. S. Gopalakrishnan bringing a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the story. The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Tamil Nadu countryside and a keen use of lighting to create mood and atmosphere.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Tamil Nadu countryside and a keen use of lighting to create mood and atmosphere. The color palette is vibrant and rich, with a keen use of colors to evoke emotions and create a sense of nostalgia.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's engaging story, well-developed characters, and superb direction make it a standout film in Tamil cinema. The cinematography is breathtaking, and the acting is superb. The movie's themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption are timeless and universal.
Cons
The movie's pacing can be a bit slow at times, and some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"Love knows no bounds, not even those of caste and class."
"Pudhumai Pithan, a hero is born!"
