Pushpak

Watch Pushpak

"A golden movie on the silver screen"
  • 1988
  • 2 hr 11 min
  • 8.6  (3,785)

Pushpak, released in 1987, is an Indian silent comedy film starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role. The movie is directed by Singeetham Srinivasa Rao and produced by noted filmmaker Suresh Balaje. Apart from Kamal Haasan, the film features Amala Akkineni and Tinnu Anand in important roles. The movie revolves around a down-on-his-luck man who discovers an opportunity to improve his financial situation when he comes across someone who has just won the lottery. He decides to steal the man's identity and enjoy the luxury of being rich. Kamal Haasan's character, who doesn't have a proper identity of his own, uses the abandoned Pushpak Hotel as his base and pretends to be the rich man who he has stolen the identity of.

Throughout the movie, various amusing and interesting incidents take place as Kamal Haasan's character tries to maintain his facade while keeping the people around him convinced that he's really the person he's pretending to be. The underlying theme of the plot is the human need for social validation and constant struggle for identity, told in a humorous way.

As a silent film, the movie relies heavily on visual storytelling rather than dialogue or sound. The actors' performances are therefore paramount, and Kamal Haasan delivers an outstanding one. With no words, he is able to bring the audience into his character's story and make them empathize with his plight, while also bringing humor to the storyline.

The movie is creatively shot with visually stunning scenes that take the viewer from the streets of Mumbai to the dilapidated hotel where Kamal Haasan's character takes up his temporary residence. The use of music and sound effects also enhances the storytelling, and the movie's climax contains some unexpected twists that will leave the audience astonished.

Pushpak was an unconventional movie for Indian cinema of its time, with its departure from traditional dialogue-heavy movies. However, it went on to become a commercial and critical success. The movie won the National Film Award for Best Production Design and went on to become the first Indian movie to be chosen for the non-competitive section of the Cannes Film Festival in 1988. It would later go on to inspire other filmmakers to explore the silent cinema genre.

In conclusion, Pushpak is a timeless classic that tells a story that is as relevant today as it was in 1987. Kamal Haasan's impeccable performance, along with the brilliant direction and cinematography, make this an unforgettable cinematic experience. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate silent cinema, and even for those who don't, the humor and heart of this movie will surely win them over.

Pushpak
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Description
  • Release Date
    1988
  • Runtime
    2 hr 11 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.6  (3,785)
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