Uttama Villain

Uttama Villain is a 2015 Indian Tamil language drama film directed by Ramesh Aravind and produced by N. Subash Chandrabose and Kamal Haasan. The movie boasts an ensemble list of stars including the versatile Kamal Haasan, legendary filmmaker K. Balachander, and renowned director K. Viswanath. Uttama Villain is an intriguing mix of drama, emotion, fantasy, and comedy, which encompasses two different narratives, one set in the eighth century and the other in the twenty-first century.

Kamal Haasan, who also penned the script, plays dual roles in the film - a 21st-century superstar named Manoranjan, and an 8th-century drama artist named Uttaman - showcasing once again his exceptional acting prowess. The contrast between these two characters, in terms of their personalities as well as the time periods they reside in, provides an engaging story that effortlessly slipstreams between two different eras.

The film starts with the charming superstar Manoranjan, who is living a life of stardom filled with fame and adoration from his fans. However, his extravagant lifestyle is marred by its own set of personal and professional challenges. When his life takes an unforeseen drastic turn, the superstar meets his mentor and director Marghadarsi, portrayed by K. Balachander, with whom he shares a bond that is both professional and deeply personal.

Manoranjan’s desire to leave behind a meaningful legacy leads him to decide to make one final film, a film reflecting his own journey, in which he portrays the 8th century drama artist Uttaman. This film-within-a-film narrative format opens up the second timeline of the story, set in an era far removed from Manoranjan's palatial houses and modern cars.

The 8th-century narrative is steeped in folklore and drama, providing a fascinating insight into the theater and courtly life of that time. The character of Uttama is a dramatic mesh of laughter and sorrow, a jester in the kingdom of king Muttharasan, played by K. Viswanath. Through his jests and performance, he unravels the realities of life and reveals ironies that provoke both laughter and thought.

This dual narrative, switching seamlessly between the gritty realities of superstar Manoranjan's life and the satirical jests of court jester Uttaman, creates the distinctive rhythm of the movie. This mix of modernity and tradition, realism, and fantasy, is embellished by Ghibran's soothing music, creating an unforgettable audio-visual experience. The cinematography by Shamdat adds layers to the narrative, capturing the raw realism of Manoranjan's life and the flamboyance of Uttaman's drama with equal finesse.

The untamed talent of Kamal Haasan is in full display in Uttama Villain, as he masterfully handles the contrasting intricacies of both characters. He is ably supported by a star-studded ensemble cast, that includes actors from various generations, making the narrative even more vibrant.

A special mention should be made for the late director K. Balachander who, despite being known for his direction skills, gives an unforgettable performance as Marghadarsi. His portrayal of Manoranjan's mentor adds a layer of depth and poignancy to the story. The scenes between him and Kamal Haasan are touching, reflecting the real-life bond they shared off-screen.

Uttama Villain is a poignant exploration of life and art, love and mortality, and fame and legacy. It weaves a story within a story, expertly juxtaposing the glitz and glamour of modern cinema with the rustic charm of traditional theatre. From its brilliant storyline to its impressive cast, the film is a visual and emotional treat for fans of Kamal Haasan, and a meaningful experience for any lover of cinema. It's a film that leaves the audience with deep introspection about life, legacy, and art, long after they have left the cinema.