Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Why Vijay’s ‘Kaththi’ remains a movie masterpiece

Directed by AR Murugadoss, Kaththi was more than just an action movie – it delivered a powerful message about social issues

Why Vijay’s ‘Kaththi’ remains a movie masterpiece
Vijay in 'Kaththi'

AS AUDIENCES celebrate the 10th anniversary of Kaththi, it is clear that this movie has left a lasting mark on Tamil cinema.

Directed by AR Murugadoss and featuring Kollywood superstar Vijay, Kaththi was more than just an action movie – it delivered a powerful message about social issues that continues to resonate with viewers even after a decade.


Eastern Eye marks the 10-year milestone with reasons why the film remains iconic.

Knock-out lead performance: Let’s talk about Vijay. He didn’t just act in this film; he absolutely owned it and lived the characters. Playing dual roles, Vijay showcased his versatility like never before. One moment, he was the charming, quick-witted Kathiresan, and the next, he transformed into the intense, purpose-driven Jeevanantham. It felt like watching two entirely different actors on screen.

Dynamic directing: AR Murugadoss proved once again why he is considered one of the best commercial directors. His direction in Kaththi was nothing short of masterful, blending high-octane action sequences with thoughtprovoking social commentary. He kept viewers engaged while making them reflect on deeper issues – a difficult feat to achieve.

Musical mastery: Anirudh Ravichander’s soundtrack deserves appreciation. From the energetic Selfie Pulla to the soul-stirring Aathi, every song fit perfectly into the narrative. But it was Yaar Petra Magano that truly struck an emotional chord. Anirudh’s background score elevated every scene, whether it was actionpacked or emotionally charged. He knocked it out of the park.

Box office bonanza: Kaththi didn’t just win hearts; it also raked in the moolah. It was also a massive commercial success. It broke records and became one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of 2014, cementing its legacy.

Awesome action: The film’s intense and innovative action sequences were choreographed to perfection. Vijay’s physicality and the inventive fight choreography added an extra dimension, significantly contributing to the film’s appeal.

Super scenes: Kaththi had many memorable moments, but two in particular stood out for their hard-hitting impact:

The mass suicide of farmers was an emotional gut punch. Watching a group of farmers take their own lives was difficult, but that’s exactly the point. Murugadoss forced viewers to confront the grim reality faced by Indian farmers. It’s a stark, unflinching portrayal that leaves you feeling both angry and helpless.

The scene where Jeevanantham was arrested and made to sit in his underwear at the police station was deeply uncomfortable to watch, which made it all the more powerful. Talk about stripping a man of his dignity! It was a stark commentary on how activists are often humiliated and dehumanised by those in power. Vijay’s subtle yet impactful performance spoke volumes, conveying so much with just his eyes.

Timeless: Ten years on, Kaththi still packs a punch and remains relevant. Its themes of corporate greed, farmer exploitation, and environmental concerns are just as pertinent today as they were in 2014. That is the mark of a truly great film – one that stands the test of time and continues to spark conversation long after its release.

More For You

Sydney Sweeney

Filming is tentatively planned for early 2026

Getty Images

Sydney Sweeney offered £45m to star in big-budget Bollywood film

Highlights:

  • Sydney Sweeney reportedly offered £45m for a leading role in a major Bollywood film
  • The package includes £35m in fees and £10M in sponsorship deals
  • Filming is tentatively planned for early 2026 across New York, Paris, London, and Dubai
  • The project could make Sweeney one of the highest-paid Hollywood stars to join Indian cinema

A record-breaking offer

Hollywood actor Sydney Sweeney has reportedly been approached with a staggering £45M deal to star in one of the most expensive Bollywood films ever produced.

The 28-year-old Euphoria and The White Lotus star is said to have been offered £35m in fees plus an additional £10m through sponsorship agreements.

Keep ReadingShow less
Eurovision 2026

Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement

Instagram/eurovision

Eurovision in turmoil as Spain Ireland and Netherlands threaten withdrawal over Gaza conflict

Highlights:

  • Spain leads a growing boycott movement, with Ireland, the Netherlands and Slovenia also refusing to participate if Israel competes.
  • The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is in crisis talks, extending its decision deadline to December 2025.
  • The situation draws direct comparisons to Russia’s exclusion in 2022, creating a precedent the EBU must now navigate.
  • The core dilemma pits Eurovision’s non-political ideals against the stark reality of a humanitarian crisis.

The Eurovision Song Contest, that glitter-drenched annual spectacle of pop and unity, is staring into the abyss. The escalating call for a Eurovision boycott over Israel's participation, against the backdrop of the ongoing Gaza conflict, has put the organisers into their most severe political crisis yet. This isn't just about another song entry but a fundamental clash between the contest's cherished apolitical fantasy and the inescapable geopolitics of the real world, threatening to tear the competition apart from within.

Eurovision 2026 Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement Instagram/eurovision

Keep ReadingShow less
Unni Mukundan and Narendra Modi

Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy

Instagram/iamunnimukundan

Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in biopic, ‘Maa Vande’, about the leader's bond with late mother

Highlights:

  • Malayalam star Unni Mukundan announced as lead in Narendra Modi biopic titled Maa Vande.
  • The film will focus on the Prime Minister's early life and bond with his mother.
  • A pan-India release is planned for 2026 with a major technical crew attached.
  • Mukundan is currently riding high on the success of his brutal action film Marco.

Malayalam cinema actor Unni Mukundan is stepping into the biggest role of his career. He has been officially cast as Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming biographical film Maa Vande. The project, announced on the PM's 75th birthday, promises a fresh look at Modi's formative years. Instead of another political portrait, the filmmakers are zeroing in on his personal journey and the profound influence of his mother.

Unni Mukundan and Narendra Modi Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy Instagram/iamunnimukundan

Keep ReadingShow less
Malaika Arora

Malaika Arora reveals judgement made her stronger and shaped her boldness

Getty Images

Malaika Arora turns lifelong criticism into strength saying being called "too bold" is now the crown she proudly wears​

Highlights:

  • The star revealed she was constantly judged for her career and clothing choices.
  • Malaika said she felt free when she stopped explaining herself to others.
  • She now sees confidence as moving forward with grace despite self-doubt.
  • The actor and model insists the only narrative that matters is her own.

Malaika Arora has defiantly addressed the lifetime of criticism she has faced for her personal and professional choices. The actor and model, known for her impeccable fitness and fashion sense, said being labelled “too bold” is something she now wears as a crown. In a new interview, she opened up about her journey to unshakeable self-acceptance and shutting out the noise.

Malaika Arora reveals judgement made her stronger and shaped her boldness Getty Images

Keep ReadingShow less
Paul Rudd and Jack Black

Paul Rudd and Jack Black gear up for jungle chaos in the new Anaconda

People/Courtesy of Sony Pictures

'Anaconda' first photos show Jack Black and Paul Rudd battling comedy and chaos in jungle reboot

Highlights:

  • First look images reveal the meta comedy take on the 1997 creature feature.
  • The film sees the duo as fans trying to shoot their own version of the original film.
  • Director Tom Gormican applies his The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent formula.
  • The cast, including Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn, promises chaotic fun.
  • It is slated for a Christmas Day release, aiming for a box office strike.

The first photos from the wildly unexpected Anaconda remake have finally surfaced. This is not your typical Hollywood rehash, mind you. Jack Black and Paul Rudd are leading a brilliantly meta charge, playing superfans whose dream project goes horrifyingly wrong. The new images tease the comedic chaos planned for the big screen this Christmas.

Paul Rudd and Jack Black gear up for jungle chaos in the new Anaconda People/Courtesy of Sony Pictures

Keep ReadingShow less