Mani's Magic

He is arguably one of the best directors in operation in the Indian movie world. The consistency with which he manages to make commercial success's of social themes is something that would be difficult for any director to emulate.I present the top three movies directed by him from his list. This list is subjective hence others are welcome to give in their inputs. Top 3 of Mani-

Rank 3: Roja – One of the ground breaking movies of Indian Cinema,this made history of sorts for a variety of reasons - The music was given by a 23 yr old youngster who was paid a remuneration of Rs 25,000 for this movie which was his debut. But what would stand out in this movie is the amazing screenplay which unfolds frame by frame. Mani does an brilliant job all through movie etching each character perfectly and justifying their presence and roles very clearly. Madhu walks away with the acting credits although she never could recreate the magic again. While Aravind Swamy stole a thousand hearts with his Red Sweatshirt and amazing screen presence..
Favourite Song: Puthu Vellai Mazhai
Favourite Scene: Aravind Swamy putting out the fire on the national flag by rolling over it.
Favourite Dialogue: Actually cant think of one..

Rank 2: Alaipayuthe - Like the previous one this movie launched a face that became a rage of the State. The beauty with which Mani unfolds the love story of Karthik & Shakti speaks volumes of his talent in Movie making. A parallel telling in which the flash back merges with the original story towards the end of the movie is wonderful. The amazing dialogues between the various characters involved in the movie with each playing their role to perfection. The Scene in which Karthik's dad talks to him about his younger days as an hardworking and well disciplined youngster is something every one would have had with their dad at somepoint in their life. The conversation between Karthiks and Shaktis parents are also beautifully portrayed.
Favourite Song: Snehithane
Favourite Scene: When Madhavan gets caught trying to bring Poorni(shakti's sis) and her fiance' together.
Favourite Dialogue: "Karthik,nee panakaranna? classle lastaa? yenna, panakara pasanga thaan intha mathiri padikaratha vittitu ponunga pinnadi suthuvaanga." ( That smile..aaah.)

Rank 1: Mouna Ragam- This one ranks right up there. The first commercial movie of Mani. A indicator of what was to redefine the tamil film industry. The storyline is to date one of the best that I can think of. Mohan as the loving husband, Revathi as the full of life young girl whose world is shattered after the death of her lover and finally Karthik as the happy, fun loving hearthrob steals the show. Some of the songs and their lyrics are really amazing and touching. I could just go on....
Favourite Song: Nilaave Vaa..(One Amazing song...touches you everytime you listen to it)
Favourite Scene: When Karthik invites Revathis dad for a cup of coffee at the restaurant.
Favourite Dialogue: "Neena kettathu onu...Naana aasai pattu vaangitu vanthathu onu...." ( Mohan is a class act in this one)