Enthiran

Enthiran (transl. Robot) is a 2010 Indian Tamil-language science fiction action film co-written and directed by Shankar. It is the first instalment in the Enthiran film series. The film stars Rajinikanth in dual lead roles as a scientist and the robot he created. Along with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, actors such as Danny Denzongpa, Santhanam and Karunas play supporting roles. The soundtrack album and background score were composed by A. R. Rahman. Dialogues were written by Sujatha, Madhan Karky and Shankar, while cinematography and editing were handled by R. Rathnavelu and Anthony. Sabu Cyril served as the art director, and the action sequences were choreographed by Peter Hein. The film follows a scientist, Vaseegaran, who struggles to control his sophisticated android robot Chitti after it is upgraded to experience human emotions, with the intention of commissioning it for the Indian Army. The project backfires when Chitti falls in love with Vaseegaran's girlfriend Sana and is manipulated by Vaseegaran's mentor Bohra into becoming homicidal. After nearly a decade in development, the film's principal photography began in 2008 and lasted two years. The film marked the debut of Legacy Effects (which handled the film's prosthetic make-up and animatronics) in Indian cinema. Enthiran was released worldwide on 1 October 2010. Produced by Kalanithi Maran, it was the most expensive Indian film at the time of its release. The film received positive reviews from critics, who particularly praised Shankar's direction, storyline, Rajinikanth's performance as Chitti, music, action sequences, production values and the visual effects by V. Srinivas Mohan. Enthiran emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film of 2010. It won two National Film Awards, three Filmfare Awards, seven Vijay Awards and two Screen Awards. Enthiran was followed by a sequel, 2.0, released in 2018.