"Baasha" (1995) - Movie Review

"Baasha" (1995) is a Tamil-language action film directed by Suresh Krissna and starring Rajinikanth, Nagma, and Raghuvaran in lead roles. The movie tells the story of an auto-rickshaw driver who leads a double life as a feared gangster, and the challenges he faces in keeping his two worlds apart. With its high-octane action, memorable dialogues, and charismatic performances, "Baasha" is widely regarded as a classic in Tamil cinema.

Baashha was released on 12 January 1995 to positive feedback and became one of the most successful films and in the career of Rajinikanth, running for nearly 15 months in theatres. Rajinikanth won the Filmfans Association Award and the Cinema Express Award for Best Actor for his performance. The film was remade in Kannada as Kotigobba (2001). A digitally restored version of the film was released on 3 March 2017.

At its heart, "Baasha" is a story of power and corruption. Rajinikanth's character, Manickam, is an honest and hardworking auto-rickshaw driver who lives a simple life with his mother and younger sister. However, when he is forced to confront a local gangster, he discovers that he has a talent for violence and quickly rises up the ranks of the criminal underworld.

As he becomes more powerful, Manickam is forced to make difficult choices and face the consequences of his actions. He is torn between his loyalty to his gang and his love for his family, and must constantly balance his two lives in order to avoid detection by the authorities.

One of the most memorable aspects of "Baasha" is Rajinikanth's performance as Manickam. With his trademark style and larger-than-life persona, Rajinikanth embodies the character of a man who is both a hero and a villain. He is charming and charismatic, yet ruthless and unforgiving when pushed too far.

The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, with Nagma playing Manickam's love interest, Raghuvaran as the villainous Mark Antony, and Janagaraj as Manickam's loyal friend and fellow gangster.

The action sequences in "Baasha" are also noteworthy, with elaborate fight scenes and car chases that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie's famous "auto driver" dialogue, delivered by Rajinikanth with his trademark style, has become a cultural phenomenon and is still quoted by fans today.

However, "Baasha" is more than just an action movie. It is a powerful commentary on the corrupting influence of power and the importance of family and loyalty. The movie highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the need for a moral compass in the face of temptation.

The film's music, composed by Deva, is also a highlight, with catchy songs that complement the action and drama on screen. The song "Naan Autokaaran" in particular, which plays during Manickam's introduction scene, has become an iconic Tamil song and is still played at social gatherings and events.

"Baasha" was a massive commercial success upon its release in 1995, breaking box office records and cementing Rajinikanth's status as a superstar. The movie's popularity has only grown in the years since, with multiple re-releases and remastered versions keeping it fresh in the minds of Tamil cinema fans.

In conclusion, "Baasha" is a classic of Tamil cinema that combines action, drama, and social commentary in a way that is still relevant today. With its charismatic performances, memorable dialogues, and thrilling action sequences, the movie remains a must-watch for fans of Tamil cinema and action movies in general. Its legacy as one of the greatest movies in Indian cinema is well deserved and it will always be remembered as a cultural icon that shaped Tamil cinema.