Kamal Haasan is more than simply an actor; he is a phenomenon who has reshaped Indian cinema by his dedication to craft, artistic risk-taking, and unparalleled versatility.
His early films, particularly those from the 1970s and 1990s, are master classes in acting, screenplay, and directing. Here’s a detailed look at five of his most famous classics, analysing their themes, characters, cinematic contributions, and Kamal’s legendary performances.
India’s official submission to the Oscars continues to be one of the most Influential films in Tamil cinema history. It is widely studied in film schools and frequently referenced in popular culture. Kamal’s portrayal of Velu Naicker is regarded as one of the best performances ever in Indian film.
Nayakan 1987 (Crime, Action)
The Storyline – Nayakan is a sprawling epic that follows the rise and moral fall of Velu Naicker, a beloved but feared underworld don in Mumbai. The film’s key themes include power, morality, family, and the blurring of good and evil. The film, inspired by the true story of Varadarajan Mudaliar, draws comparisons to The Godfather while presenting a unique Indian backdrop.
The Best Part – Mani Ratnam’s storyline and Ilaiyaraaja’s eerie soundtrack transcend the film, but Kamal’s deep performance keeps it grounded. His body language alters with age, his voice deepens, and the emotional gravity gets deeper, demonstrating Kamal’s ability to live through a character’s journey in astonishing detail.
The Performance – Kamal Haasan goes through an incredible physical, emotional, and psychological metamorphosis. Kamal effectively transitions from a defenceless boy to a middle-aged thug who questions his own morals throughout the film. He demonstrates excellent discipline and internalised emotion, particularly during periods of quiet and vulnerability. One of the most memorable scenes is when his son asks him, “Are you a good or bad man?” Kamal’s wordless, anguished look is stronger than any conversation.
Moondram Pirai 1982 (Romance, Thriller)
The Storyline – Moondram Pirai is a lyrical tragedy about a young woman (Sridevi) who regresses to a juvenile stage as a result of forgetfulness. Kamal portrays a schoolteacher who saves and cares for her. The film tackles themes of innocence, love, protection, and emotional commitment, with a memorable and devastating finale.
The Best Part – Balu Mahendra’s directing is modest and poetic. Ilaiyaraaja’s soundtrack heightens the emotional intensity. The cinematography depicts both the beauty and loneliness of the hill station where the narrative develops.
Moondram Pirai was recreated in Hindi as Sadma, and Kamal reprised his role. Both versions are good, but the original has a more eerie vibe. Kamal’s portrayal is widely regarded as one of the best romantic performances in Indian cinema history.
The Performance – This is perhaps Kamal’s most subtle and emotionally honest performance. He portrays a man who serves as both a guardian and a silent lover to a lady emotionally trapped in childhood. The reserve in his emotions, the childish joy he has with her, and his unspoken love are all depicted with surprising maturity. In the conclusion, Kamal tries hard to remind her of him when she regains her memories and forgets him—his agony is tangible, visceral, and completely shattering.
Pushpaka Vimana 1987 (Comedy, Romance)
The Storyline – This is a rare gem: a modern silent film that focusses only on images, emotions, and background music. Kamal portrays a jobless guy who meets a wealthy drinker, kidnaps him, and adopts his identity at a luxurious hotel. With dark humour and a hint of Chaplinesque satire, the picture criticises consumerism, societal inequality, and personal greed.
The Best Part – The film is a technological wonder. Without conversations, every visual cue–from lighting to facial expressions–had to be perfect. Kamal’s acting was crucial in making this silent format successful. His expressive features and clown-like empathy evoke Charlie Chaplin’s golden age.
Pushpaka Vimana demonstrated how film may transcend language. It was well-received both in India and throughout the world. Kamal’s risk in making a silent film during the sound era demonstrates his experimental spirit and appreciation for filmmaking as an art form.
The Performance – Kamal expresses a wide range of emotions–greed, joy, shame, horror, and affection–without using words. His comedy timing is perfect, yet there is a melancholy undertone to the character, forcing the audience to ponder on larger socioeconomic truths.
Apoorva Sagodharargal 1989 (Action, Comedy)
The Storyline – Apoorva Raagangal is a revolutionary film that questioned societal standards, notably those involving age gaps. Kamal Haasan portrays Prasanna, a young rebellious guy who falls in love with an elderly widow. Meanwhile, her daughter develops affections for Kamal’s father. The film investigates nonlinear relationships, existential disillusionment, and cultural taboos.
The Best Part – K. Balachander’s smart writing, progressive concepts, and distinctive character arcs distinguish this film from the formulaic filmmaking of the day. His directing was daring, and Kamal’s performance provided emotional believability. This film established Kamal as Balachander’s protégé and a force to be reckoned with. It also encouraged Indian film to present more inclusive stories. Apoorva Raagangal continues to be appreciated for its daring and multilayered character studies.
The Performance – This film heralded Kamal Haasan’s genuine breakthrough as a serious performer. He played a multifaceted character–angry, confused, passionate, and introspective–with astonishing complexity given his age. His relationship with Srividya (who plays the elderly woman) was powerful yet real. Kamal personified the tensions and paradoxes of a new age that challenges old standards.
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Sadma 1983 (Romance, Drama)
The Storyline – Sadma, a Hindi remake of Moondram Pirai, reached a larger audience with its emotionally charged plot. The film follows the tragic narrative of a schoolteacher who saves and nurtures a young amnesiac lady as a child, only to lose her emotionally when she regains her memories.
The Best Part – Sadma was not a commercial success when it was first released, but it has since become a cult classic. Kamal and Sridevi’s performances were appreciated for their honesty and subtlety. It won Kamal Haasan Filmfare nominations and cemented his reputation as a pan-Indian actor. Sadma is currently regarded as a must watch for anybody serious about Indian cinema.
The Performance – Sadma was many North Indians’ first introduction to Kamal Haasan. His ability to convey grief, sympathy, and helplessness was well admired. The conclusion remains one of the most heartbreaking sequences in Indian film, with Kamal’s character attempting to make the recovering Sridevi remember him. His imitation, infantile despair, and unexpected realisation of loss are remarkable.
Written by Nilesh Shiv