Jul. 01, 2022|India|156 Min.|R
Genre: 4K-2160p;Action;South;Indian;Thriller
Description: “Yaanai” (transl. Elephant) is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language action masala film directed by Hari and produced by Vedikkaranpatti S. Sakthivel under Drumsticks Productions. The film features Arun Vijay and Priya Bhavani Shankar in lead roles, with supporting performances by Ramachandra Raju, Samuthirakani, Rajesh, Raadhika Sarathkumar, Aishwarya, Ammu Abhirami, Yogi Babu, and Pugazh. The music was composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, cinematography by Gopinath, and editing by Anthony.
The story revolves around a powerful family accused of causing a man’s son’s death. The youngest son, Ravi, takes on the responsibility of protecting his family and eventually falls in love. This marks the second collaboration between Arun Vijay and Priya Bhavani Shankar after “Mafia: Chapter 1” and the first partnership between Arun Vijay and director Hari.
The film was extensively shot across Tamil Nadu, including locations like Ramanathapuram, Rameshwaram, Thoothukudi, Palani, and Karaikudi. Initially scheduled for release on May 6, 2022, it was postponed to June 17, 2022, and finally released on July 1, 2022, due to the release of Kamal Haasan’s “Vikram.”
“Yaanai” received generally positive reviews for its direction, performances, emotional depth, action sequences, and background score, though some critics noted its conventional storyline. It was a commercial success, grossing over ₹65 crore (US$8.1 million) and becoming one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of 2022.
The plot centers on P.R.V., a prominent figure in Ramanathapuram district with multiple business ventures across Rameswaram. He has four sons—three from his deceased first wife and the youngest, Ravichandran, from his second wife, Muthaaram. The family dynamics and Ravi’s journey form the core of the narrative.
Cast director: Hari
Cast actor: Arun Vijay, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Samuthirakani, Yogi Babu, Ammu Abhirami, Ramachandra Raju, Radhika Sarathkumar, V. I. S. Jayapalan, Imman Annachi, Rajesh
Original name: யானை