Praise the Brave is the subtitle for the 2020 Tamil-language drama film Soorarai Pottru,
Introduction
In the world of cinema, there are stories that entertain, stories that make us reflect, and then there are stories like “Soorarai Pottru.” This Tamil-language film, directed by Sudha Kongara, is not just a movie; it’s an emotional rollercoaster that takes the audience through the life of a man who dared to dream big. In this article, we will delve into the captivating narrative, performances, and the impact of “Soorarai Pottru.”
The Dream Takes Flight (H1)
“Soorarai Pottru,” which translates to “Praise the Brave,” is a biographical drama that revolves around the life of Captain Gopinath, the founder of Air Deccan, India’s first low-cost airline. The film stars Suriya as the lead, portraying the character of Nedumaaran Rajangam, loosely based on Captain Gopinath.
The Journey of a Dreamer (H2)
Nedumaaran, a passionate and ambitious young man, dreams of making air travel affordable for the common man. The movie beautifully captures his struggles, starting from his days as a student to his eventual rise as an aviation pioneer.
The Early Struggles (H3)
The film begins with Nedumaaran’s childhood, highlighting the financial hardships faced by his family. His dream of flying is often met with skepticism from his parents, who want him to pursue a stable career.
The Unwavering Determination (H3)
Nedumaaran’s determination to make his dream a reality leads him to join the Indian Air Force. His experiences there shape him into a disciplined and strong-willed individual, preparing him for the challenges that lie ahead.
The Sky is Not the Limit (H2)
The heart of “Soorarai Pottru” lies in Nedumaaran’s relentless pursuit of his aviation dream. After leaving the Air Force, he faces numerous obstacles, from bureaucratic red tape to financial struggles.
The Struggle for Funding (H3)
Starting an airline business is no small feat, and Nedumaaran soon realizes the importance of funding. His journey to secure financial support forms a crucial part of the plot, showcasing the cutthroat world of business.
Building the Team (H3)
Nedumaaran assembles a team of passionate individuals who share his vision. Their camaraderie and dedication are portrayed in a way that tugs at the heartstrings of the audience.
The Triumph of Grit (H2)
The film’s climax is a testament to Nedumaaran’s unwavering resolve. It showcases the first flight of Air Deccan, a moment that symbolizes the triumph of grit and determination over adversity.
Impact and Reception (H1)
“Soorarai Pottru” was not just a cinematic success; it struck a chord with the audience and critics alike. The film’s ability to blend entertainment with a powerful message was widely appreciated.
Suriya’s Stellar Performance (H2)
Suriya’s portrayal of Nedumaaran was a masterclass in acting. He effortlessly transformed into the character, capturing the essence of the dreamer and the relentless fighter.
Inspiring the Masses (H2)
The film’s message of chasing one’s dreams against all odds resonated with viewers from all walks of life. It inspired countless individuals to pursue their aspirations, no matter how daunting they may seem.
Conclusion
“Soorarai Pottru” is not just a movie; it’s an inspiring journey that teaches us the value of determination and resilience. The film’s gripping storytelling, stellar performances, and powerful message make it a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration.
which was written and directed by Sudha Kongara and co-produced by Suriya, Jyothika, and Guneet Monga. Shalini and Kongara The dialogue was written by Vijay Kumar and P. Virumandi, and the script was written by Usha Nair, Aalif Surti, and Ganeshaa. In addition to Mohan Babu, Urvashi, and Karunas playing supporting parts, the movie stars Suriya, Aparna Balamurali, and Paresh Rawal.
The events of G. R. Gopinath’s autobiography Simply Fly: A Deccan Odyssey, which he wrote as the creator of the Indian low-cost airline Simplifly Deccan, served as the inspiration for the movie. Suriya 38 was used as the working title when the project was first disclosed in the middle of 2018, and the official title was revealed in April 2019. Filming took held in Madurai, Chennai, and Chandigarh from the same month’s start till September of that year. The soundtrack for the movie was written by G. V. Prakash Kumar, while Sathish Suriya edited it, with Niketh Bommireddy serving as the film’s cinematographer.
The COVID-19 pandemic and post-production delays prevented the movie from opening in theaters; instead, it was digitally released through Amazon Prime Video on November 12, 2020, the night before Diwali. At the same time, the movie’s dubbed versions in Malayalam and Kannada were released under the same title, and a Telugu dub was released under the name Aakasam Nee Haddu Raa (The Sky is the Limit). On April 4th, 2021, a Hindi dub of the film called Udaan (flight) was made available.
The key technical components of Soorarai Pottru gained accolades from critics, who also praised the script, Suriya’s performance, and Kongara’s directing. chosen as one of ten Indian films to be shown in the Best Foreign Film category. The movie was also entered into the Shanghai International Film Festival’s Panorama Category. At the 68th National Film Awards, it took home five prizes: Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Suriya), Best Actress (Aparna), Best Screenplay (Kongara and Nair), and Best Background Score (Prakash Kumar). On February 16, 2024, a Hindi version featuring Rawal reprising his role will be released in theaters. This remake will once again be directed by Kongara and produced by Suriya.
Plot
Former Indian Air Force commander. The proprietor of Jaz Airlines, Paresh Goswami, is revered by him. Sundari, also known as Bommi, pays Maara a visit one day since her family is hunting for a spouse for her. Bold young woman Bommi wants to start her own bakery. He reveals to her that he was a disobedient child who struggled to have a cordial connection with his father. Maara enlisted in the Indian Air Force, where he excelled but frequently received criticism from M. Naidu, his supervisor, because of his rebellious personality. Maara attempted to schedule a flight home as his father lay dying, but he lacked the funds. He makes multiple unsuccessful requests for cash assistance from people at the airport. After a lengthy journey by car and rail, he arrives at his home to find that his father has passed away and that his final rites have been performed. This incident gave Maara the inspiration to launch a low-cost airline. Bommi, however, rejects him and claims that Maara and she are already committed to their own goals.
Maara goes to see Naidu to request the loan from the ex-serviceman so that he can launch his airline, but Naidu declines. Maara boarded the same airplane as Paresh out of necessity. He suggests they join together to launch a low-cost carrier. However, Following Maara and Paresh’s conversation, Prakash Babu, the head of a venture capital firm, requests that Paresh present his business plan to the board of the company. Maara and Bommi begin meeting frequently in the meantime and eventually get hitched. He intends to rent Boeing airplanes from PlaneAm, which has agreed to rent them at a discount. Maara tries to meet with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) authorities to get the license when his money are approved, but they ignore him. After that, Maara meets with the Indian President to ask for his assistance in obtaining the license.
Paresh, alarmed by his development, uses his influence to enact a rule requiring Boeing to submit its airline blueprints in order to operate in Indian airspace. PlaneAm terminates the lease and requests payment of a penalty. Prakash declines Maara’s plea for a loan of money to cover the fine. Prakash admits that he was conspiring to bring down Maara with Paresh, and that Jaz Airlines has now bought the plane in its place. Maara storms into Paresh’s office out of rage but is stopped by the guards. He frequently fights with Bommi and gets angry, but he later apologizes. He makes a deal with a maker of turboprop aircraft after realizing he can fly smaller planes. Paresh chooses to take matters into his own hands out of concern that Maara may have an impact on his business. Maara’s entire town, meanwhile, supports him by contributing as much cash as they can. Since Paresh took control of the major airports, he intends to start operating from the airstrips that have been left vacant. His airline, Deccan Air, sells tickets at gas stations and railroad stations under that moniker. chosen to provide the in-flight cuisine.
Paresh exploits his power to prevent the plane from landing in Chennai on the day of delivery, causing it to crash land at Tambaram Air Force Station because of a fuel shortage. Maara is called before Naidu to give an explanation for the emergency landing, and then he is fined. The airline’s inaugural flight is forced to abort takeoff after catching fire. It is discovered that Paresh bought the flight’s sabotage by paying the captain. In front of the investigation panel, the captain acknowledges buy Deccan Air, but Maara declines citing differences in their points of view. In an effort to crush Maara’s dreams, Paresh launches a smear campaign against Deccan Air, but Maara tells everyone that his flights are secure and economical. However, on the first day of service, no passengers sign up for a single flight. Maara is about to quit up until he learns that no tickets were purchased for that specific flight due to a technical issue, despite all other flights being completely filled.Later, Paresh calls Maara and offers to work with him; Maara declines, claiming that farmers have flown in the past and would do so in the future and that Paresh does not possess the sky. While Deccan Air becomes a success, Paresh concedes defeat.
In a sequence that appears in the middle of the credits, the Indian Civil Aviation Minister summons Paresh to Delhi, chastises him for delaying Deccan Air’s debut flight, and threatens to close down Jaz Airlines. Paresh experiences an anxiety attack in a bathroom and tries to take his medication, but it drops to the floor. Paresh is shown respect for lower-class groups when a janitor picks up the tablet for him.
Cast
Abridged from the final credits:[1]
As Nedumaaran “Maara” Rajangam, Suriya
Sundari “Bommi” Nedumaaran is played by Aparna Balamurali.
As Paresh Goswami, Paresh Rawal
As M. Bhaktavatsalam, Mohan Babu Naidu
Pechi Rajangam Karunas as played by Urvashi
Ramu Poo as Rajangam
Chaitanya “Che” Rao is played by Krishnakumar.
Sebastian is Vivek Prasanna.
As Kaali, Kaali Venkat
Chitra Ramaswamy is portrayed by Vinodhini Vaidyanathan.
As Prakash Babu, Prakash Belawadi
As Anantha Narayanan, Achyuth Kumar
As Vimal Balaiyya, Dan Dhanoa
As Anantha Narayanan’s PA, R. S. Shivaji
Arivu G. Gnanasambandam as Chinnaswamy is played by Ramachandran Durairaj.
Vishalini performs the role of Muthulakshmi Supergood Subramani, a matchmaker.
RJ As a stewardess, Anandhi
Seby’s wife is Priya Prince.
Cassendra plays Preethi, Iyal plays Seby’s daughter, and Udumalai Kalam plays the Indian President.
Somasekar as a cadet in the IAF
Uncredited Senthil Kumar performing as himself[2]
Unique FAQs
- Q: Is “Soorarai Pottru” based entirely on a true story? A: While the movie is inspired by the life of Captain Gopinath, certain elements have been fictionalized for cinematic purposes.
- Q: How can I watch “Soorarai Pottru” if I don’t speak Tamil? A: The film is available on Amazon Prime Video with subtitles in multiple languages.
- Q: Did Captain Gopinath himself endorse the film? A: Yes, Captain Gopinath praised the film for its portrayal of his journey and vision.
- Q: Is there a sequel planned for “Soorarai Pottru”? A: As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel.
- Q: What other films by Sudha Kongara should I watch if I enjoyed “Soorarai Pottru”? A: Sudha Kongara has directed other notable films like “Irudhi Suttru” and “Guru,” which are worth watching.
