The unforgettable words still resonate with fans as we celebrate 33 years of Gunaa, one of Tamil cinema’s most unique and revered films. While the movie didn’t achieve blockbuster status upon release due to its clash with Thalapathi, it has since gained cult status for its remarkable storytelling, compelling performances, and ground-breaking cinematic elements.
Here’s a look at some fascinating facts about Gunaa that many might have missed when it first released in 1991:
- Renowned Malayalam screenwriter John Edathattil, better known as Sab John, penned the story for Gunaa. It stemmed from an earlier project on the Sri Lankan Civil War, which was shelved.
- Gunaa is loosely inspired by the 1989 Spanish film Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! where a mentally unstable man takes a woman hostage in his quest for love and acceptance.
- Dialogues were written by the acclaimed Balakumaran, known for his work in Nayakan (1987), adding depth and nuance to the film.
- Initially titled Mathikettan Solai (The Forest of the Mad), the name was later changed to Gunaa for commercial reasons, as the original title was deemed inauspicious.
- Newcomer Roshini played the iconic role of Abirami. Despite delivering a memorable performance, Gunaa was her first and only film. She later settled in the United States. Her voice was dubbed by actress Saritha.
- Kamal Haasan lost 10 kilograms for the role, showcasing his commitment to portraying the vulnerable yet intense Gunaa.
- For the climactic scenes, a mannequin resembling Kamal’s physique was created for authenticity.
- The cave where Gunaa hides Abirami is located in Kodaikanal, nestled among three imposing boulders. Known as Devil’s Kitchen due to its eerie fog patterns, the location was renamed Gunaa Cave after the film’s release and is now a popular tourist spot.
- The Gunaa team constructed stairs leading to the bottom of the cave, where they shot for 45 consecutive days.
- Ilaiyaraaja’s mesmerizing soundtrack added soul to the film. Kamal Haasan included audio recording sessions in the movie’s cassette release, a first in Tamil cinema.
- The song Kanmani Anbodu was entirely shot inside Devil’s Kitchen, adding to its haunting charm.
- The film’s tracking shots were inspired by the works of German filmmaker Max Ophüls, as revealed by Kamal Haasan.
- The early portions of the film reflect Kamal’s deep appreciation for global cinema.
- Released during Deepavali 1991 alongside Thalapathi, Gunaa struggled at the box office despite glowing reviews. Over time, it gained the recognition it deserved.
- Malayalam director Sathyan Anthikkad credited the song Kanmani Anbodu as an inspiration for the female character Kanmani in his film Rasathanthram (2006).
- Today, Gunaa is celebrated as a masterpiece that blends psychological depth with emotional intensity, setting a benchmark for Tamil cinema.
As we commemorate 33 years of this cinematic gem, Gunaa continues to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling and unforgettable performances, proving that some films transcend time and trends to become timeless classics till date.
Source / Image Credit : Filmcompanion, cinemaexpress