Iruvar (1997)

Introduction
"Iruvar" is a 1997 Tamil-language political drama film written and directed by Mani Ratnam. It stirs an engaging tale of relationship, politics and cinema, influenced by the real-life relationship in between M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), the film star turned political leader, and M. Karunanidhi, the scriptwriter who also turned to politics and ended up being the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The motion picture starred Mohanlal, Prakash Raj, Aishwarya Rai, and Revathi.

Plot and Characters
The motion picture focuses on Anandan (Mohanlal), a hopeful actor having a hard time to make a mark in the Tamil movie market, and Tamizhselvan (Prakash Raj), a popular author of the Dravidian motion. Tamizhselvan assists Anandan to attain fame by writing scripts for him. The duo forms a strong bond of relationship. Anandan's popularity reaches politics where he is welcomed to join the party led by Thamizhselvan.

Aishwarya Rai plays the dual roles of Kalpana, a fan who ends up being Anandan's wife, and Pushpavalli, a struggling actress whom Anandan develops an intimate relationship with. As Anandan's stardom increases, Kalpana fails to maintain a steady relationship with him, causing life-altering events.

Rise to Stardom and Relationship Dynamics
Anandan's popularity skyrockets high, and he ends up being a vital element of the political celebration. His rise to stardom stress his relationship with Tamizhselvan as he envies Anandan's success. The motion picture captures the duo's relationship cracking under the strain of envy, resentment, and power struggle. It astutely mirrors the rough political real-life competition between MGR and M. Karunanidhi, contextualizing it in the middle of the socio-political metamorphosis of Tamil Nadu.

Politics and Betrayal
As the film progresses, with the death of the celebration leader, a power vacuum occurs. Anandan and Tamizhselvan, once friends, now rivals, fight for the celebration's management. In spite of the rift, Tamizhselvan assists Anandan become the celebration's crucial leader. Later on, Anandan forms his own political party, which outrages Tamizhselvan who feels betrayed.

End of an Era
The climax pertains to a mournful end with the demise of Anandan. Despite their rivalry, Tamizhselvan is seen mourning his buddy's death, suggesting their deep-rooted bond. He reads out the script they had actually planned long back for a movie - which acts as a lament to their lost relationship and the turbulent odyssey they started together.

Conclusion
"Iruvar" masterfully mixes real-life political scenarios with the world of movie theater, depicting the fluctuate of a relationship. The brilliance of the performances and Ratnam's distinct storytelling make it an extraordinary cinema. It is a poignant portrayal of the duality of human relationships, aspiration, power, popularity, and the complexities of political life.

Top Cast