Ithu Engal Neethi (1988)

Ithu Engal Neethi is a vigilante action film by S. A. Chandrasekhar, and he co-wrote it with M. Karunanidhi. It starred Ramki, Radhika, Nizhalgal Ravi and Vijay. The resulting film chronicled the real-life transformation of an honest citizen into a violent vigilante, after the system could not provide justice. With the support of a handful of trusted allies, he takes on his city’s crime and corruption to save the innocent from those who can’t save themselves. Ramakrishnan, a calm, principled man driven to the end of his rope by the rampant crime and corruption that have overwhelmed his city, when he doesn’t see the powerful of his rope getting away with crimes and innocent people suffering. He’s a sadist. When the law is powerless to do anything, Ramakrishnan takes justice into his own hands. He turns vigilante, protecting victims, seeking justice, and fighting against criminals who slip through the cracks. Alongside him, Shobana, a strong, warm woman who encourages his quest, and Inspector Ravi, an honest cop still willing to get his hands dirty to serve justice. Together, they stand up to a violent drug cartel and the corrupt establishment that’s protecting them. As you can imagine, plenty of things go wrong, and now this intrepid team is presented with a whole host of unexpected obstacles. There are epic, heart-stopping battle scenes, deception and intrigue, and moving, personal struggles as they seek to restore justice to the unjust. Charismatic Vani Viswanath’s character provides both muscle and glue to their team, and keeps them motivated. In the opening scene, a little boy makes a few-second cameo; this child was played by Vijay, who later went on to be a superstar in Tamil cinema. While his role is minor, it is notable for being his early film debut. Ultimately, Ramakrishnan and his crack team of misfits prevail over the baddies. Justice is served, and the public once again believes in the possibility of getting away with committing the right thing. Ithu Engal Neethi weaves electrifying action sequences into a rich tapestry of complex issues, including justice, morality, and social equality. While the film’s fight choreography is easily one of its greatest strengths, it’s the emotional beats that maintain its viewers’ investment from start to finish. With strong performances all around and it’s a fresh, entertaining, though sometimes tragic spin on the effort to fight organised crime and political corruption. The film is notable for an early appearance by Vijay, further contributing to its long-lasting appeal.