One of K.Balachander's brilliant and timeless classics. This film boldly demonstrates the classic reflection of life while catering mostly to the ponderers of the unusualities in the conservative South Indian society.

Natually composed in black and white with minimal background music and songs, the film diligently captures the audience's attention for about 2 hours. As far as the film goes, the director aptly maintains the original emotions of the artists. There is remarkable attention to detail from all corners of film making that were a part of this movie. Probably, one of the best performances by Rajinikanth and Sarita.

The film shows how difficult it is to change, to break on through to the other side and how the society scrupulously works against the dreams of the "lesser mortals". A true must see.