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<div>{{short description|2021 Indian biographical film by A. L. Vijay}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2021}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Infobox film<br />
| name = Thalaivii<br />
| image = Thalaivii poster.jpg<br />
| alt = <br />
| caption = Theatrical release poster<br />
| director = [[A. L. Vijay]]<br />
| producer = [[Vishnu Vardhan Induri]]<br />[[Shailesh R Singh]]<br />Brinda Prasad<br />
| writer = [[Madhan Karky]] (Tamil)<br />[[Rajat Arora]] (Hindi)<br />
| screenplay = [[K. V. Vijayendra Prasad]]<ref>https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/kv-vijayendra-prasad-on-kangana-ranaut-thalaivi-5686950/</ref><br />
| based_on = Book named ''Thalaivii'' by [[Ajayan Bala]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Subramanian |first1=Anupama |title=Thalaivi runs into a storm |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/kollywood/260220/thalaivi-runs-into-a-storm.html |website=Deccan Chronicle |access-date=9 October 2021 |language=en |date=26 February 2020}}</ref><br />
| starring = [[Kangana Ranaut]]<br />[[Arvind Swami]]<br />
| narrator = <br />
| music = [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]]<br />
| cinematography = Vishal Vittal<br />
| editing = {{ubl|[[Anthony (film editor)|Anthony]]|Ballu Saluja}}<br />
| studio = Vibri Motion Pictures<br>Karma Media And Entertainment<br />
| distributor = [[AA Films]]<br />
| released = {{Film date|df=yes|2021|09|10|ref1=<ref name="rd" />}}<br />
| runtime = 153 minutes<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/thalaivii-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc01mzmznjq|title=Thalaivii|website=[[British Board of Film Classification]]|access-date=7 September 2021}}</ref><br />
| country = India<br />
| budget = <!--Must be attributed to a reliable published source with an established reputation for fact-checking. No blogs, no IMDb.-->{{INR|100 [[Crore]]}}<ref name="DNA India">{{cite news |title=Kangana Ranaut says her team, she will save Bollywood with Rs 100-crore film 'Thalaivi' |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-kangana-ranaut-says-her-team-she-will-save-bollywood-with-rs-100-crore-film-thalaivi-2884045 |access-date=10 April 2021 |work=DNA India |date=31 March 2021 |language=en}}</ref><br />
| gross = <br />
| language = Tamil<br/>Hindi<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''''Thalaivii''''' ({{translation|Female leader}}) is a 2021 Indian [[biographical film|biographical drama]] film based on the life of Indian actress-politician [[J. Jayalalithaa]]. The film stars [[Kangana Ranaut]] as Jayalalithaa and [[Arvind Swami]] as [[M. G. Ramachandran]].<ref name="Starring">{{cite news |title='Thalaivi' Trailer To Be Released on Kangana Ranaut's Birthday |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/indian-cinema/thalaivi-trailer-to-be-launched-on-lead-actor-kangana-ranauts-birthday-in-massive-event |access-date=19 March 2021 |work=TheQuint |date=18 March 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Shot simultaneously in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Hindi language|Hindi]], it is directed by [[A. L. Vijay]] and written by [[Madhan Karky]] (Tamil) and [[Rajat Arora]] (Hindi). ''Thalaivii'' is produced by [[Vishnu Vardhan Induri]] and Shailesh R Singh of Vibri Motion Pictures and Karma Media And Entertainment respectively. The film also features [[Nassar (actor)|Nassar]], [[Bhagyashree]], [[Raj Arjun]], [[Madhoo]], [[Thambi Ramaiah]], [[Shamna Kasim]] and [[Samuthirakani]] in supporting roles. The music, background score and the soundtrack for both languages is composed by [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]].<br />
<br />
The film was launched officially on Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary on 24 February 2019. Initially the film was titled ''Thalaivi'' in Tamil and ''Jaya'' in Hindi language, but the makers later planned to release it under the title ''Thalaivi'' in both languages.<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 September 2019 |title=Hindi version of Jayalalithaa biopic starring Kangana Ranaut to bear the same title as Tamil?|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/hindi-version-of-jayalalithaa-biopic-starring-kangana-ranaut-to-bear-the-same-title-as-tamil/articleshow/70970152.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|work=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Principal shooting began on 10 November 2019 and completed in December 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/jayalalitha-biopic-titled-thalaivi-starring-kangana-ranaut-starts-rolling/articleshow/71995278.cms|title=Kangana Ranaut starrer Jayalalitha biopic titled 'Thalaivi' starts rolling|work=The Times of India|date=10 November 2019|access-date=17 December 2020}}</ref> The film release was postponed due to rise in [[COVID-19]] cases and lockdown in [[Maharashtra]].<ref name="release date">{{cite web |title=BREAKING: It's Thalaivi vs Bunty Aur Babli 2, as Kangana Ranaut to take on Rani Mukerji, Saif Ali Khan at box-office|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/breaking-thalaivi-vs-bunty-aur-babli-2-kangana-ranaut-take-rani-mukerji-saif-ali-khan-box-office|date=24 February 2021|website=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=24 February 2021}}</ref><ref name="postpone">{{cite web |title=After 'Sooryavanshi', Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Thalaivi' postponed amid surge in COVID-19 cases|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-after-akshay-kumar-sooryavanshi-kangana-ranaut-starrer-thalaivi-postponed-amid-surge-in-covid-19-cases-2885589|date=9 April 2021|work=Daily News & Analysis|access-date=9 April 2021}}</ref> It was later rescheduled to release on 10 September 2021, with the new title ''Thalaivii''.<ref name="rd"/><br />
<br />
The film received mixed to positive response upon release, film critics praised Ranaut and Swamy's strong performances but criticised the screenplay of the film.<ref name= "thalaiviireview"/> Several publications like ''[[Paste (magazine)|Paste]]'',<ref name= "Paste2021"/> ''[[Cosmopolitan (magazine)|Cosmopolitan]]'',<ref name="Cosmo2021"/> and ''[[The Indian Express]]'' cited it as one of the best films of the year 2021.<ref name= "TEI2021"/><br />
<br />
==Plot==<br />
{{Summarize section|date=October 2021}}<br />
In 1989, [[J. Jayalalithaa|Jayalalithaa]] (nicknamed Jaya or Ammu), a member of the [[Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly]] and questions the current chief minister, [[M. Karunanidhi]], about the corruption charges, arrests and eavesdropping leveled against her and her party. She demands his resignation and upholds the preceding CM, [[M. G. Ramachandran]], as someone who truly served the people. However, the opposition questions her relationship with MGR, resulting in a brawl after Jaya is slapped. Some ruling MPs attempt to disrobe Jaya; comparing herself to [[Draupadi]], Jaya pledges she would return to the session only after becoming CM.<br />
<br />
In 1965, MGR is at the peak of his film career; producer [[R M Veerappan]] fires [[Saroja Devi]] and even burns all traces of her character in his next film after she shows affection to MGR as Veerappan believes that MGR must stay celibate to preserve popular perception of him as a "god". Jaya, then 16 years old, is pushed by her mother Sandhya, a yesteryear actress, to act. Jaya replaces Savitri, but her unenthusiastic attitudes manifests itself in haughtiness. After realizing her mother just want her to succeed in career and after she is touched by MGR's respect to a crew member hurt on set, Jaya takes a softer stand. The film is a success, so MGR and Jaya shoot more films together and grow fonder. Veerappan again tries to ward off Jaya but she uses her wit to make him back off. Still, Jaya is hurt knowing that she's the other woman in eyes of public, as MGR is married to Janaki. Jaya repeatedly says she touches her hero thinking as if she hugs her mother, she considers MGR as protector like her father, her brother. She realizes she is not respected by few people close to MGR, when MGR was shot in the neck and hospitalized. As MGR recovers, the coalition of party wins. Veerappan hires another heroine for MGRs next film and offers full and final settlement to Jaya to stop her continuous lead pairing with MGR. Jaya tries to discuss with MGR but he brushes of saying it is matter of one film. To retaliate, Jaya praises MGR's rival [[Sivaji Ganesan]] in a press conference and makes a hit film with him while MGR's next film becomes flop. MGR apologizes and gets her to star in more films with him.<br />
<br />
MGR enters politics with his friend Karunanidhi, but his film schedule interferes with his party duties, leading to his ouster. MGR meets Jaya to tell her he has chosen politics over career in films and leaves with Veerappan in 1973. Meanwhile, her mother Sandhya's demise affects Jaya to a great extent. On board a flight, she is seated beside MGR only to know why he couldn't attend her mother's funeral. Jaya says she cannot be the other woman in his life anymore and does not want to meet secretly to have conversation. MGR wins the election to be the Chief Minister again while Jaya is offered film for playing the character of an elder sister in 1981. However, Jaya she refuses such offers. Jaya accepts a stage performance at a government event in [[Madurai]], where MGR is the guest. He meets her backstage to discuss their memories. By whistling, he takes a moment to appreciate her performance in privacy and wants her to join politics. However, she refuses initially because politics is something she dislikes.<br />
<br />
Touched by the condition of girls and other children's education in schools, Jaya highlights the midday meal services under MGR's name by serving him the unhygienic food at his office. MGR inspects the mid-day meal service himself. He advises Jaya to take up the mid-day meal service program for the state to which she agrees and forays into politics. She is fondly called “Amma” by locals. She markets the food scheme door to door and continues to partner with MGR, politically. Jaya takes the portfolio of education, also. Meanwhile, elections are around the corner and a saint is killed. The opposition takes advantage of the situation and says the current political party has “no man left” as they are under Jaya's influence in the party. In a political address to clear the air, stones are pelt at her. To stop the pelting, she speak in opposition of MGR. However, she successfully changes the opinion of the crowd, pointing out and is assigned the job of the party's propaganda secretary, and ends up running in winning that district. Now an MP she is sent to Delhi to meet the prime minister, Indira Gandhi, but is blatantly barred from doing so.<br />
<br />
In a [[Rajya Sabha]] session, Advani requests the speaker let Jaya speak about South India's situation. Boldly speaking on the disregard of South India and the issue of splitting power generated from the [[Kalpakkam|Kalpakkam electricity project]], an impressed Gandhi allows her in. Jaya creates a controversial alliance with Congress that was heard by MGR through news. Seen as a betrayal, Jaya was expelled from the position of secretary by Veerappan while MGR is flown to the US for treatment, leading to a dire situation. However, [[Rajiv Gandhi]] calls up Veerappan to let Jaya campaign for the party during MGR's absence. The campaigning saves the party and it continues to stay in force. On his return from USA, MGR and Rajiv Gandhi discuss on how Jaya kept the spirit alive. Impressed again, MGR plans to meet Jaya on a dinner, prepared at her home in 1987. Jaya awaits MGR overnight only to know in the wee hours that he is no more. Post MGR's demise, Veerappan wants MGR's wife [[Janaki Ramachandran]] to take the responsibility of MGRs position but Janaki accepts her defeat and steps back from politics, saying Jaya has done more for the public. Thus, Karunanidhi takes the reigns of power.<br />
<br />
Back in 1990, a lorry runs into Jaya's car as part of a plot against her. Despite her situation, she manages to campaign and her party wins nearly every seat. Finally, she enters the legislature again as CM and gets the respect she deserves.<br />
<br />
== Cast ==<br />
{{Cast listing|<br />
* [[Kangana Ranaut]] as [[J. Jayalalithaa]]<br />
* [[Arvind Swami|Arvind Swamy]] as M. J. Ramachandran or "M. J. R." (based on [[M. G. Ramachandran]])<br />
* [[Nassar (actor)|Nassar]] as M. Karuna (based on [[M. Karunanidhi]])<br />
* [[Bhagyashree]] as Sandhya, Jayalalithaa's Mother<br />
* [[Raj Arjun]] as R. N. Veerappan (based on [[R. M. Veerappan]]) (Hindi version)<br />
* [[Samuthirakani]] as R. N. Veerappan (based on R. M. Veerappan) (Tamil version)<br />
* [[Madhoo]] as [[V. N. Janaki Ramachandran]], M. J. R.'s wife<br />
* [[Radha Ravi]] as [[M. R. Radha]]<br />
* [[Thambi Ramaiah]] as Madhavan<br />
* [[Shamna Kasim|Poorna]] as Sasi (based on [[V. K. Sasikala]])<ref>{{cite news |title=Poorna joins Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi: It's truly a wonderful opportunity |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/poorna-joins-kangana-ranaut-s-thalaivi-it-s-truly-a-wonderful-opportunity-1649187-2020-02-23 |access-date=24 February 2020 |work=India Today |date=23 February 2020 |language=en}}</ref><br />
* A. R. Manikandan as Moorthy (R. N. V.'s manager)<br />
* [[Bharath Reddy (actor)|Bharath Reddy]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://telanganatoday.com/say-hi-to-millets-marvels|title = Say hi to millets marvels|date = 28 November 2020}}</ref><br />
* [[Regina Cassandra]] as Saroja (based on [[Saroja Devi]]) (special appearance)<br />
* [[Vidya Pradeep]]<ref>{{cite news |last1=Subramanian |first1=Anupama |title=Arvind Swami was my first crush: Vidya Pradeep |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/kollywood/220120/arvind-swami-was-my-first-crush-vidya-pradeep.html |access-date=17 November 2020 |work=Deccan Chronicle |date=22 January 2020 |language=en}}</ref><br />
* Flora Jacob as [[Indira Gandhi]], [[Prime Minister of India]]<ref>{{Cite news|date=5 Aug 2021|title=Playing Indira Gandhi|work=[[The Asian Age]]|url=https://www.pressreader.com/india/the-asian-age/20210805/282067689984311}}</ref><br />
* A. Rajiv Kumar as [[Rajiv Gandhi]], [[Prime Minister of India]]<br />
* [[Shanmugarajan]] as [[Valampuri John]]<br />
* Virral Patel as [[Raja Kannappan|Kannappan]]<br />
* Phanindra Gollapalli as Congress MP in Rajya Sabha<br />
* JayaKumar as Duraimurugan/Vaiko (Played both as MLA & Rajya Sabha MP whereas both of them had been only one role respectively)<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Production ==<br />
<br />
=== Development ===<br />
Vishnu Vardhan Induri decided to make a film based on the life of [[AIADMK]]'s former general secretary [[J. Jayalalithaa]], who served six times as the [[chief minister of Tamil Nadu]] for more than fourteen years between 1991 and 2016. Producer Vishnu Vardhan Induri approached [[A. L. Vijay]] in early 2018, to direct the film.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=Vidya Balan to play Jayalalithaa in her biopic? - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vidya-balan-to-play-jayalalithaa-in-her-biopic/articleshow/65435826.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Vijay and Vishnu researched extensively for eight months to come up with the story. To make the writing more effective, Vishnu brought in [[K. V. Vijayendra Prasad]] for the script who further developed the script.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Thalaivi will be the official biopic of Jaya amma: Vijay - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thalaivi-will-be-the-official-biopic-of-jaya-amma-al-vijay/articleshow/68136899.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
{{Blockquote|text=The film will focus on the journey of a woman who has been successful in a male-dominated world. The most beautiful thing about her is that she has a powerful mind and is very strong willed; she is an inspiration for many. There will be honesty in the biopic, not drama.|source=[[A. L. Vijay]], on directing ''Thalaivi'' in an interview with ''[[The Times of India]]''.<ref name=":1" />}}<br />
<br />
In August 2018, [[Vidya Balan]] was reported to play the lead character when the film initially came to news. However, when the project was launched on 24 February 2019 (Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary), under the title ''Thalaivii'', the makers had approached [[Kangana Ranaut]] to play Jayalalithaa's role, as Vijay stated that her role will be apt for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangna is apt for the role of Jayalalithaa: Vijay - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangna-is-apt-for-the-role-of-jayalalithaa-vijay/articleshow/68886001.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Ranaut officially confirmed her part in March 2019,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut to play Jayalalithaa in her biopic - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-ranaut-to-play-jayalalithaa-in-her-biopic/articleshow/68532925.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> with the shooting being supposed to held in July 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Jayalalithaa's biopic 'Thalaivi' starring Kangana Ranaut to go on floors by July this year - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/jayalalithaas-biopic-thalaivi-starring-kangana-ranaut-to-go-on-floors-by-july/articleshow/68599691.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
As per Kangana, there will be two parts of the film. The first part focuses on life of Jayalalilthaa from 16 to 40. There will be a second film, where her life from 41 to her death in 2016 will get covered.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/kangana-ranaut-reveals-jayalalithaa-biopic-thalaivi-will-be-made-in-two-parts-first-will-focus-on-her-life-before-politics-7512811.html|title = Kangana Ranaut reveals Jayalalithaa biopic Thalaivi will be made in two parts: First will focus on her life before politics-Entertainment News , Firstpost|date = 17 October 2019}}</ref> In November 2019, it was revealed that the biopic will be shot simultaneously in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.<ref>https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijay-and-kangana-ranaut-start-shooting-for-thalaivi/articleshow/72007907.cms</ref> However, the Telugu version was dropped in favor of a dubbed release.<ref>https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/seetimaarr-thalaivii-laabam-10-movies-set-to-release-on-september-10/photostory/86001801.cms</ref><br />
<br />
=== Casting and characters ===<br />
Ranaut started preparing for her role in May 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Jayalalithaa biopic 'Thalaivi' producer Vishnu Vardhan Induri heaps praise on Kangana Ranaut - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/jayalalithaa-biopic-thalaivi-producer-vishnu-vardhan-induri-heaps-praise-on-kangana-ranaut/articleshow/69556478.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> In September 2019, prosthetic specialist Jason Collins, who worked on ''[[Captain Marvel (film)|Captain Marvel]]'' (2019), was hired to design Ranaut's looks and it has been reported that she will sport four looks in the film.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut to sport four looks in Thalaivi - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-ranaut-to-sport-four-looks-in-thalaivi/articleshow/71093218.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Both Ranaut and Vijay headed to Los Angeles to undergo the prosthetic sessions.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Vijay, Kangana to fly to LA to work on her four looks for Jayalalithaa's biopic - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijay-kangana-to-fly-to-la-to-work-on-her-four-looks-for-jayalalithaas-biopic/articleshow/71098214.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Photos: Kangana Ranaut goes through prosthetic measurements, preps for 'Thalaivi' - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/photos-kangana-ranaut-goes-through-prosthetic-measurements-preps-for-thalaivi/articleshow/71212234.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Ranaut also trained under dance master [[Gayathri Raguram|Gayathri Raghuram]] to choreograph [[Bharatanatyam]] sequences for this film so as to suit for the character.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana to learn Bharatanatyam for Jayalalithaa biopic - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-to-learn-bharatanatyam-for-jayalalithaa-biopic/articleshow/71219677.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Prep mode on! Kangana Ranaut practices Bharatnatyam for Jayalalithaa's Biopic 'Thalaivi' - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/prep-mode-on-kangana-ranaut-practices-bharatnatyam-for-jayalalithaas-biopic-thalaivi/articleshow/71453398.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The second round of look tests were held during October, which led Ranaut to spend nearly two months for the preparation of her role.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Photo: Kangana Ranaut begins a second round of look tests for 'Thalaivi' - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/photo-kangana-ranaut-begins-a-second-round-of-look-tests-for-thalaivi/articleshow/71743657.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's last minute prep for 'Thalaivi' will remind you of nights before exams! - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranauts-last-minute-prep-for-thalaivi-will-remind-you-of-nights-before-exams/articleshow/71843978.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> She also gained 20 kilos for her role in the film.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut puts on 20 kilos for Thalaivi - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-ranaut-puts-on-20-kilos-for-thalaivi/articleshow/74487146.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2019, [[Arvind Swami]] was roped in to play the role of [[M. G. Ramachandran]].<ref>{{Cite web|title='Thalaivi': Arvind Swami to play MGR in Jayalalithaa's biopic starring Kangana Ranaut - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/thalaivi-arvind-swami-to-play-mgr-in-jayalalithaas-biopic-starring-kangana-ranaut/articleshow/71436305.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The very same month, the makers approached [[Prakash Raj]] to play the role of [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam|DMK]] politician [[M. Karunanidhi]], although he donned a similar character inspiring the politician in the 1997 film ''[[Iruvar]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kannada actor Prakash Raj to play CM Karunanidhi in 'Thalaivi'? - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/kannada-actor-prakash-raj-to-play-cm-karunanidhi-in-thalaivi/articleshow/71818175.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> [[Vijay Deverakonda]] was reported to play the role of [[Sobhan Babu]], Jayalalithaa's close aide,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Vijay Deverakonda roped in to play Jayalalithaa's close friend in 'Thalaivi'? - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/vijay-deverakonda-roped-in-to-play-jayalalithaas-close-friend-in-thalaivi/articleshow/72403249.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> before [[Jisshu Sengupta]] was finalised; however, this role was later dropped.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Bengali actor plays Shoban Babu in Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/bengali-actor-plays-shobhan-babu-in-kangana-ranauts-thalaivi/articleshow/74190587.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Similarly, [[Priyamani]] was approached to play [[V. K. Sasikala]],<ref>{{Cite web|title=Priyamani to play Sasikala in Kangana Ranaut's 'Thalaivi'? - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/priyamani-to-play-sasikala-in-kangana-ranauts-thalaivi/articleshow/72380341.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> but, she could not allot dates for the film and the role went to [[Poorna (actress)|Poorna]]; [[Madhoo]] essayed the role of [[V. N. Janaki]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Poorna plays Sasikala; Madhoo is Janaki in Jayalalithaa biopic - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/poorna-plays-sasikala-madhoo-is-janaki-in-jayalalithaa-biopic/articleshow/74267304.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Filming ===<br />
Principal shooting began in [[Mysore]] on 10 November 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut starrer Jayalalitha biopic titled 'Thalaivi' starts rolling - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/jayalalitha-biopic-titled-thalaivi-starring-kangana-ranaut-starts-rolling/articleshow/71995278.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Vijay and Kangana Ranaut start shooting for Thalaivi - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijay-and-kangana-ranaut-start-shooting-for-thalaivi/articleshow/72007907.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> A huge set for a song sequence was erected at a studio in [[Chennai]], and began filming on 1 February 2020, featuring Ranaut in a Bharatanatyam attire.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut: To become Amma is an interesting, but a difficult arc to achieve - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/to-become-amma-is-an-interesting-arc-but-a-difficult-arc-to-achieve-kangana-ranaut/articleshow/73850519.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> During the song shoot [[Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari]], whom Ranaut worked in ''[[Panga (film)|Panga]]'' (2020) made a visit to the sets.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's surprise guest on Thalaivi set - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-ranauts-surprise-guest-on-thalaivi-set/articleshow/73848218.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Shoot at Site: The making of Thalaivi - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/shoot-at-site-the-making-of-thalaivi/articleshow/73962866.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Production was halted due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], with major portions being filmed, Ranaut stated not to resume shoot as the climax scene requires more than 3000 extras and is to be made on a large scale.<ref name=":2">{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/kangana-ranauts-thalaivi-not-resume-shoot-soon-climax-scene-requires-300-extras/ |title=Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi to not resume shoot soon as climax scene requires over 3000 extras |work=Bollywood Hungama|date=6 June 2020|access-date=26 June 2020}}</ref> After multiple delays, the makers filmed the climax scene in mid-November 2020, with production being completed in December 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi shoot has been completed - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kangana-ranauts-thalaivi-shoot-has-been-completed/articleshow/79697042.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut announces the wrap of 'Thalaivi' with 'mixed feelings' - Times of India ►|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-announces-the-wrap-of-thalaivi-with-mixed-feelings/articleshow/79702651.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Music==<br />
{{Infobox album<br />
| name = Thalaivii<br />
| type = soundtrack<br />
| artist = [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]]<br />
| cover =<br />
| alt =<br />
| released = 10 September 2021 (All languages)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jiosaavn.com/album/thalaivii-tamil/R4YaxmJFUb0_|title=Thalaivii (Tamil) - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |date=10 September 2021 |publisher=Jio Saavn}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jiosaavn.com/album/thalaivii/M07BUhnzTWY_|title=Thalaivii (Hindi) - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |date=10 September 2021 |publisher=Jio Saavn}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jiosaavn.com/album/thalaivii-telugu/9jKoOXGSawk_|title=Thalaivii (Telugu) - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |date=10 September 2021 |publisher=Jio Saavn}}</ref><br />
| recorded = 2020<br />
| venue =<br />
| studio =<br />
| genre = [[Feature film soundtrack]]<br />
| length = 25:35 (All languages)<br />
| language = [[Tamil language|Tamil]]<br/>[[Hindi]]<br />
| label = [[Lahari Music]]<br>[[T-Series (company)|T-Series]]<br />
|misc =<br />
| prev_title = [[Vanakkam Da Mappilei]]<br />
| prev_year = 2021<br />
| next_title =<br />
| next_year =<br />
}}<br />
The music for the film is composed by [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]] and lyrics written by [[Madhan Karky]] (Tamil version) and [[Irshad Kamil]] (Hindi version) and Sira Sri, [[Bhaskarabhatla]], [[Ramajogayya Sastry]], [[Krishna Chaitanya (lyricist)|Krishna Chaitanya]] and Kalyana Chakravarthy (Telugu dubbed version). The music rights are acquired by [[Lahari Music]] and [[T-Series (company)|T-Series]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.aninews.in/news/entertainment/bollywood/thalaivi-makers-drop-first-look-of-song-chali-chali-track-releases-on-april-220210331211458/|title='Thalaivi' makers drop first look of song 'Chali Chali', track releases on April 2|access-date=31 March 2021|agency=Asian News International|date=31 March 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qmv7p7bxsYk |title=Full Album: Thalaivii (Tamil) - Kangana Ranaut, Arvind Swamy, Nassar, G.V. Prakash Kumar - Audio Jukebox |publisher=[[YouTube]] |date=10 September 2021 |accessdate=13 September 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzVHaXPq2a8 |title=Full Album: Thalaivii (Tamil) - Kangana Ranaut, Arvind Swamy, Nassar, G.V. Prakash Kumar - Audio Jukebox |publisher=[[YouTube]] |date=10 September 2021 |accessdate=13 September 2021}}</ref><br />
{{Tracklist<br />
| headline = Tamil<br />
| total_length = 25:35<br />
| all_lyrics= [[Madhan Karky]]<br />
| extra_column = Singer(s)<br />
| title1 = Mazhai Mazhai<br />
| extra1 = [[Saindhavi|Saindhavi Prakash]]<br />
| length1 = 3:22<br />
| title2 = Unthan Kangalil Ennadiyo<br />
| extra2 = [[Nakul Abhyankar]], Niranjana Ramanan<br />
| length2 = 3:28<br />
| title3 = Kannum Kannum Pesa Pesa <br />
| extra3 = Saindhavi Prakash<br />
| length3 = 4:00<br />
| title4 = Unakaana Ulagam<br />
| extra4 = [[K. S. Harisankar]], [[Ananya Bhat]]<br />
| length4 = 5:03<br />
| title5 = Vaa Thalaivii<br />
| extra5 = Nakul Abhyankar<br />
| length5 = 5:48<br />
| title6 = Tugalai Tugalai<br />
| extra6 = [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]]<br />
| length6 = 3:54<br />
}}<br />
{{Tracklist<br />
| headline = Hindi<br />
| total_length = 25:35<br />
| all_lyrics= [[Irshad Kamil]]<br />
| extra_column = Singer(s)<br />
| title1 = Chali Chali<br />
| extra1 = [[Saindhavi|Saindhavi Prakash]]<br />
| length1 = 3:22<br />
| title2 = Teri Aankhon Mein<br />
| extra2 = [[Armaan Malik]], [[Prajakta Shukre]]<br />
| length2 = 3:28<br />
| title3 = Nain Bandhe Naino Se<br />
| extra3 = Saindhavi Prakash<br />
| length3 = 4:00<br />
| title4 = Hai Kamaal<br />
| extra4 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]], Parul Mishra<br />
| length4 = 5:03<br />
| title5 = Aa Thalaivii<br />
| extra5 = [[Amit Mishra (singer)|Amit Mishra]]<br />
| length5 = 5:48<br />
| title6 = Tukuda Tukuda<br />
| extra6 = [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]]<br />
| length6 = 3:54<br />
}}<br />
{{Tracklist<br />
| headline = Telugu (dubbed)<br />
| total_length = 25:35<br />
| extra_column = Singer(s)<br />
| title1 = Ilaa Ilaa<br />
| extra1 = [[Saindhavi|Saindhavi Prakash]]<br />
| lyrics1 = Sira Sri<br />
| length1 = 3:22<br />
| title2 = Nee Kannullo Emunnado<br />
| extra2 = [[Nakul Abhyankar]], Niranjana Ramanan<br />
| lyrics2 = [[Bhaskarabhatla]]<br />
| length2 = 3:28<br />
| title3 = Nandhalala<br />
| extra3 = Saindhavi Prakash<br />
| lyrics3 = [[Ramajogayya Sastry]]<br />
| length3 = 4:00<br />
| title4 = Kumari Idhi Nee Daari<br />
| extra4 = [[Anurag Kulkarni]], [[Ananya Bhat]]<br />
| lyrics4 = Ramajogayya Sastry<br />
| length4 = 5:03<br />
| title5 = Ra ThalaiviI<br />
| extra5 = Anurag Kulkarni<br />
| lyrics5 = [[Krishna Chaitanya (lyricist)|Krishna Chaitanya]]<br />
| length5 = 5:48<br />
| title6 = Visirey Visirey<br />
| extra6 = Nakul Abhyankar<br />
| lyrics6 = Kalyana Chakravarthy<br />
| length6 = 3:54<br />
}}<br />
<br />
== Marketing and release ==<br />
The first look and teaser released on 23 November 2019,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Watch 'Thalaivi' teaser: Kangana Ranaut impresses with her first look as late Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa in upcoming biopic - Times of India ►|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/watch-thalaivi-teaser-kangana-ranaut-impresses-in-her-first-look-as-late-tamil-nadu-cm-j-jayalalithaa-in-upcoming-biopic/articleshow/72197852.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> received positive response praising Ranaut's transformation.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's transformation as late Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa in 'Thalaivi' teaser leaves fans impressed - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranauts-transformation-as-late-tamil-nadu-cm-jayalalithaa-in-thalaivi-teaser-leaves-fans-impressed/articleshow/72198734.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> However, a section of audience expressed disappointment over the "terrible" prosthetics and initiated a troll fest through [[Twitter]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=The thalaivi who got trolled mercilessly - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/the-thalaivi-who-got-trolled-mercilessly/articleshow/72236895.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's 'Thalaivi' first look starts a meme fest on social media - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranauts-thalaivi-first-look-starts-a-meme-fest-on-social-media/articleshow/72211897.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Some netizens claimed that any other actor should have done better in place of Ranaut and further upset that she could end up "tarnishing Jayalalithaa's image through this film".<ref>{{Cite web|title='Kamal Haasan could have been a better choice': Netizens cannot stop trolling Kangana Ranaut on 'Thalaivi' first look {{!}} Latest News & Updates at DNAIndia.com|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/photo-gallery-kamal-haasan-could-have-been-a-better-choice-netizens-cannot-stop-trolling-kangana-ranaut-on-thalaivi-first-look-2803104|access-date=27 March 2021|website=DNA India|language=en}}</ref> However, Ranaut's sister Rangoli Chandel defended the actress, saying that "those who got eyes can see the fantastic work done by the prosthetic team".<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sister Rangoli Chandel defends Kangana Ranaut's Jayalalithaa look against trollers - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/sister-rangoli-chandel-defends-kangana-ranauts-jayalalithaa-look-against-trollers/articleshow/72229387.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
The film was initially scheduled for a theatrical release on 26 June 2020,<ref name="BH">{{cite web|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/thalaivi-first-look-kangana-ranaut-transforms-late-jayalalithaa-film-release-june-26-2020/|title=Thalaivi First Look: Kangana Ranaut transforms herself into late Jayalalithaa, film to release on June 26, 2020|work=Bollywood Hungama|date=23 November 2019|access-date=26 June 2020}}</ref> but was postponed due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic in India]].<ref name=":2" /> In June 2020, the team announced that the film will have a theatrical release and may not have a direct OTT release.<ref>{{Cite web|title='Thalaivi' will not directly release on OTT platforms, says Kanagana Ranaut - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thalaivi-will-not-directly-release-on-ott-platforms-says-kanagana-ranaut/articleshow/76209688.cms|access-date=27 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The film was then scheduled for release theatrically on 23 April 2021 in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu languages.<ref name="BH" /><ref name="release date" /> As of April 2021, the release date of film was indefinitely delayed due to rise in [[COVID-19]] cases and lockdown in Maharashtra.<ref name="postpone" /> It was later rescheduled to release on 10 September 2021, with the new title ''Thalaivii''.<ref name="rd">{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Thalaivii' to now release in theatres on September 10|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kangana-ranaut-starrer-thalaivii-to-now-release-in-theatres-on-september-10-see-new-poster/articleshow/85559998.cms|access-date=2021-08-23|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The film will be available for streaming on [[Netflix]] and [[Amazon Prime Video]] simultaneously, four weeks after its theatrical release.<ref name="ott">{{Cite web|title=Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi set to release on two OTT platforms |date= 2 September 2021 |url= https://www.bollywoodlife.com/web-series/breaking-kangana-ranauts-thalaivi-set-to-release-on-two-ott-platforms-netflix-amazon-prime-on-this-date-sold-for-this-huge-amount-1906419/ |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
The makers of ''Thalaivii'' announced a two-week window for the Hindi version and a four-week window for Tamil and Telugu versions of the film before its release in the [[Over-the-top media service|OTT services]]. Multiplex chains [[PVR Cinemas]] and [[INOX Leisure Limited|INOX]] have expressed their disapproval over this policy and appealed for a uniform four-week window across all the language versions.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-07|title=Explained: The tiff between multiplex chains and Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/explained-the-tiff-between-multiplex-chains-and-kangana-ranauts-thalaivi-9942831.html|url-status=live|website=Firstpost}}</ref> Ranaut responded they could a find a solution with the talks so that "the Hindi version can also find love and appreciation on the big screen."<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-05|title=PVR is 'disappointed' after Kangana Ranaut demands 2-week theatrical window for Thalaivii's release, she reacts|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/pvr-is-disappointed-after-kangana-ranaut-demands-2-week-theatrical-window-for-thalaivii-s-release-she-reacts-101630814989352.html|url-status=live|website=Hindustan Times}}</ref><br />
<br />
Thalaivii after limited and single screen theatrical release in India, It was released on Netflix ( Hindi ) 2 weeks later and on amazon prime ( Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam ) 4 weeks later with respect to the deals made by producers with OTT platforms. The Hindi version of the film had its world television premiere on [[Zee Cinema]] on Christmas Day, 25 December 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|date=December 25, 2021|title=Zee Cinema to premiere Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Thalaivii’|url=https://www.livemint.com/industry/media/zee-cinema-to-premiere-kangana-ranaut-s-thalaivii/amp-11640405780646.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Mint (newspaper)|Mint]] }}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
===Box office===<br />
<!--Must be attributed to a reliable published source with an established reputation for fact-checking. No blogs, no IMDb.--><br />
Made with a budget of {{INR|100 [[crore]]}},<ref name="DNA India" /> the movie earned {{INR|4.75 [[crore]]}} in its first week at the box office.<ref name="Week1">{{cite news |title='Thalaivii' box office collection: Kangana Ranaut starrer biopic earns 4.75 crore in its first weekend - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/thalaivii-box-office-collection-kangana-ranaut-starrer-biopic-earns-4-75-crore-in-its-first-weekend/articleshow/86162839.cms |access-date=15 September 2021 |work=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref> The film was sold to streaming platforms like [[Netflix]] and [[Amazon Prime Video]] for ₹55 Crores each.<ref>{{Cite news|date=June 5, 2020|title=Kangana Ranaut says Thalaivi sold to Netflix, Amazon for Rs 55 cr but film will not get direct to digital release|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/kangana-ranaut-says-thalaivi-sold-to-netflix-amazon-for-rs-55-cr-but-film-will-not-get-direct-to-digital-release/story-ugwMz9ZJsFkfACS6IChZkM.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Hindustan Times]] }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=June 5, 2020|title=Kangana Ranaut reveals 'Thalaivi' sold to Netflix and Amazon for Rs 55 crore, wouldn't have direct OTT release|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-kangana-ranaut-reveals-thalaivi-sold-to-netflix-and-amazon-for-rs-55-crore-wouldn-t-have-direct-ott-release-2826993|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Daily News and Analysis]] }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=June 5, 2020|title=Thalaivi Sold To Netflix & Amazon For Rs 55 Cr, But Can't Have Direct OTT Release: Kangana Ranaut|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/thalaivi-sold-to-netflix-amazon-for-rs-55-cr-but-cant-have-direct-ott-release-kangana-ranaut-2653901.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[CNN-IBN]] }}</ref><br />
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===Critical reception===<br />
Upon release, ''Thalaivii'' was met with mixed to positive reviews from film critics; Ranaut and Swamy's performance was praised but the screenplay of the film drew criticism.<ref name= "thalaiviireview">{{Cite news|date=August 25, 2021|title=Thalaivii Movie Review - Critics|url=https://www.addatoday.com/2021/09/thalaivii-movie-review-critics.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 28, 2021|website=addatoday.com }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-11|title=Fans Want Kangana To Win National Award For 'Thalaivii' But Critics Have A Mixed Opinion|url=https://www.mensxp.com/entertainment/bollywood/93332-fans-want-kangana-ranaut-to-win-national-award-for-thalaivii.html|access-date=2021-09-22|website=www.mensxp.com|language=en-IN}}</ref> [[Review aggregator]] website [[Rotten Tomatoes]] reports that 25% of 8 critic reviews were positive, with an average rating of 6.1/10.<ref>{{Citation|title=Thalaivii|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/thalaivii|language=en|access-date=2021-09-22}}</ref><br />
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==== India ====<br />
''[[Bollywood Hungama]]'' critics rounded the review with a score of 3.5 on 5, calling the film overall a well-made and well-written political saga that is embellished with yet another award-winning performance by Kangana Ranaut.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hungama|first=Bollywood|title=Thalaivii Movie Review|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/thalaivi/critic-review/thalaivi-movie-review/kangana-ranaut-starrer-thalaivii-is-a-well-made-and-well-written-political-saga-that-is-embellished-with-yet-another-award-winning-performance-by-kangana-ranaut/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-22|language=en}}</ref> Also, Critic based at ''[[The Times of India]]'', Renuka Vyawahare said: "Kangana & Arvind Swamy pay a resounding ode to Jaya-MGR’s poignant love story".<ref name=":3">{{Citation|title=Thalaivii Movie Review : Kangana & Arvind Swamy pay a resounding ode to Jaya-MGR's poignant love story {{!}} Thalaivi Review|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/thalaivii/movie-review/86019342.cms|access-date=2021-09-22}}</ref> She awarded the film 3.5/5 score. However, she added: "The political aspect feels talky, half baked and one-sided."<ref name=":3" /> In her review for ''[[The Indian Express]]'', [[Shubhra Gupta]] wrote, "For a film that revolves around Kangana Ranaut as J Jayalalithaa, it does give others their due: Arvind Swamy as MGR, Bhagyashree as Jaya’s mother and Nassar as Karunanidhi." She awarded the film 3 stars on 5.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-11|title=Thalaivii review: Kangana Ranaut aces Jayalalithaa's look, and the film|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/thalaivii-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-j-jayalalithaa-biopic-7500894/|access-date=2021-09-22|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref><br />
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Unmesh Panwani of ''[[Koimoi]]'' rated the film 2.5 on 5, adding. "All said and done, Thalaivii has a lot of good things going in its favour but it remains half-baked only for the reason of ‘what it could’ve been?"<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-08|title=Thalaivii Movie Review: It's A One Kan(gana) Show... Literally!|url=https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-movies/movie-reviews/thalaivii-movie-review-its-a-one-kangana-show-literally/|access-date=2021-09-22|website=Koimoi|language=en-US}}</ref> Saibal Chatterjee in his review for ''[[NDTV 24x7|NDTV]]'' called the film botched by massive missteps, the film as Amma (Mother) of all misfires. However, he praised a few of the performances, especially Arvind Swami, who "absolutely nails the MGR impersonation." He gave the film 2 out of 5 score.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Thalaivi Review: Botched By Massive Missteps, Film Is Amma Of All Misfires|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/thalaivi-review-botched-by-massive-missteps-film-is-amma-of-all-misfires-2-stars-2534976|access-date=2021-09-22|website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Lakshmi Subramaniam of ''[[The Week]]'' pointed: "''Thalaivii'' may come across as a melodramatic excuse for a biopic." She awarded a score of 2 on 5.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Thalaivi review: A half-biopic laced with drumbeats|url=https://www.theweek.in/review/movies/2021/09/10/a-half-biopic-laced-with-drumbeats.html|access-date=2021-09-22|website=The Week|language=en}}</ref><br />
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Film critic [[Deepa Gahlot]] wrote: "Kangana Ranaut gets the look right, but is unable to completely inhabit the dynamism of the character, which Arvind Swami does with enviable ease in an award-worthy performance."<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-13|title=Thalaivii - Movie Review|url=https://www.deepagahlot.com/thalaivii-movie-review/|access-date=2021-09-22|website=Deepa Gahlot|language=en-US}}</ref> [[Baradwaj Rangan]] of ''[[Film Companion]]'' described ''Thalaivii'' as a "larger-than-life movie told in an almost mythical masala mode" and wrote, "Scene after scene, the achievement of the film is how there’s always something new that keeps your eyes riveted, even though you already know these stories".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-09|title=Thalaivii Movie Review: KV Vijayendra Prasad And Vijay Refashion The Jayalalithaa Story Into A Solid Mythical Melodrama|url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/tamil-review/thalaivi-review-tamil-kangana-ranaut-jayalalitha-a-solid-mythical-melodrama-kv-vijayendra-prasad-vijay-arvind-swami-baradwaj-rangan/|access-date=2021-09-22|website=Film Companion|language=en-US}}</ref> Nandini Ramnath of ''[[Scroll.in|Scroll]]'' opined: "A flattering and flattening portrait of J Jayalalithaa. ''Thalaivii'' survives the pedestrian writing and unimaginative direction".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Ramnath|first=Nandini|title='Thalaivii' movie review: A flattering and flattening portrait of J Jayalalithaa|url=https://scroll.in/reel/1004276/thalaivii-movie-review-a-flattering-and-flattening-portrait-of-j-jayalalithaa|access-date=2021-09-22|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US}}</ref> Monika Kukreja of Hindustan Times stated: "The Kangana Ranaut-starrer is packed with solid performances and an attention to period detail, but is let down by its length and an incomplete-feeling story."<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-08|title=Thalaivii movie review: Kangana Ranaut is solid, but the film provides an incomplete look at Jayalalithaa's life|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/thalaivii-movie-review-kangana-ranaut-is-solid-but-the-film-provides-an-incomplete-look-at-jayalalithaa-s-life-101631085374688.html|access-date=2021-09-22|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref> Srivatsan of ''[[The Hindu]]'' opined: "it is only fair to say that ''Thalaivii'' is a half-biopic. The problem with ''Thalaivii'' is not exactly the '''masala''-fication' of a dramatic life in public. It is bending facts with fiction, through hearsay stories".<ref>{{Cite news|last=S|first=Srivatsan|date=2021-09-09|title='Thalaivii' movie review: Arvind Swami kills it as MGR in a Jayalalithaa biopic that has her playing a cameo|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/thalaivii-movie-review-arvind-swami-kills-it-as-mgr-in-a-jayalalithaa-biopic-that-has-her-playing-a-cameo/article36376801.ece|access-date=2021-09-22|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><br />
<br />
==== Overseas ====<br />
Ambica Sachin of ''[[Khaleej Times]]'' gave the film a rating of 3/5 praising Ranaut's performance she wrote, "Kangana doesn’t try to mimic the iconic leader but rather delves into the spirit of a woman whose journey from Ammu to Amma, a figure revered and reviled in equal measures by those who knew her, is the stuff of folklore".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Sachin|first=Ambica|title='Thalaivii' review: Kangana and Arvind Swami power this biopic|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/thalaivii-review-kangana-and-arvind-swami-power-this-biopic|access-date=2021-09-23|website=Khaleej Times|language=en}}</ref> Manjusha Radhakrishnan writes for [[Gulf News]], in her review, she noted: "Everything’s on the nose in this film as they depict every situation and twist with no nuance", whereas praised, "Kangana Ranaut and Arvind Swamy shine in this overdramatic political drama". She assigned a score of 2.5 on 5.<ref>{{Cite web|title='Thalaivii' film review: Kangana Ranaut and Arvind Swamy shine in this overdramatic political drama|url=https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/bollywood/thalaivii-film-review-kangana-ranaut-and-arvind-swamy-shine-in-this-overdramatic-political-drama-1.1631188156684|access-date=2021-09-22|website=gulfnews.com|language=en}}</ref> Mike McCahill of [[The Guardian]] summarized: "While more nuanced than many of its star's recent statements - it could hardly be otherwise - the film still feels like a passive-aggressive idea of doubling down." He compared the plot and character as if [[Margaret Thatcher]] went to [[The Company of Youth|Rank Charm School]], awarding it 2 stars out of 5.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-06|title=Thalaivii review – if Margaret Thatcher went to the Rank charm school|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/sep/06/thalaivii-review-kangana-ranaut|access-date=2021-09-22|website=the Guardian|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==== Year-end lists ====<br />
Several publications listed ''Thalaivii'' as one of the best films of 2021. [[Shubhra Gupta]] of ''[[The Indian Express]]'' listed it as one of the best movies of 2021.<ref name= "TEI2021">{{Cite news|date=December 23, 2021|title=Shubhra Gupta’s list of the best movies of 2021, and why no Bollywood biggie made the cut|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/best-and-worst-films-of-2021-no-bollywood-movie-made-the-cut-7681240/|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[The Indian Express]] }}</ref> Aparita Bhandari of ''[[Paste (magazine)|Paste]]'' listed it as one of the top ten best Bollywood movies of 2021.<ref name= "Paste2021">{{Cite news|date=December 17, 2021|title=The 10 Best Bollywood Movies of 2021|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/movies/best-bollywood-movies-2021/|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Paste (magazine)|Paste]] }}</ref> ''[[Times of India]]'' listed it as one of the top thirty best Hindi movies of 2021.<ref name= "TOI2021">{{Cite news|date=December 25, 2021|title=Best Hindi Movies of 2021|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/entertainment/top-rated-movies/hindi/best-movies/2021/2742919|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Times of India]] }}</ref> Jasmine Ting and Corinne Sullivan of ''[[Cosmopolitan (magazine)|Cosmopolitan]]'' listed it as one of the twenty-six best Bollywood movies of 2021.<ref name="Cosmo2021">{{cite web |url=https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/movies/g35355813/best-bollywood-movies-2021/ |title=The 26 Bollywood Movies You Need to Add to Your 2021 Watch List |publisher=[[Cosmopolitan (magazine)|Cosmopolitan]] |date=18 November 2021 |access-date=27 December 2021|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211211074122/https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/movies/g35355813/best-bollywood-movies-2021/ |archive-date=11 December 2021}}</ref> Kumari Purvi of ''[[SheThePeople]]'' listed it as one of the top five best films of 2021.<ref name= "STP2021">{{Cite news|date=December 20, 2021|title=Five Star-Studded Films That Ruled Hearts In 2021|url=https://www.shethepeople.tv/film-theatre/5-best-bollywood-movies-of-2021/|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[SheThePeople.TV]] }}</ref> Subhash K. Jha of ''[[Rediff.com|Rediff]]'' listed it as one of the seven must-watch films of 2021.<ref name= "Rediff2021">{{Cite news|date=December 25, 2021|title=7 MUST WATCH FILMS of 2021|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/special/seven-must-watch-films-of-2021/20211225.htm|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Rediff.com|Rediff]] }}</ref> Kunal Purandare of ''[[Forbes India]]'' picked ''Thalaivii'' as one of his favourite movies of 2021.<ref name= "Forbes2021">{{Cite news|date=December 25, 2021|title=Forbes India 2021 Rewind: Best movies we watched this year|url=https://www.forbesindia.com/article/lifes/forbes-india-2021-rewind-best-movies-we-watched-this-year/72489/1|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Forbes India]] }}</ref> ''[[CNN-IBN]]'' listed it as one of the top female-lead films of 2021.<ref name= "CNN2021">{{Cite news|date=December 21, 2021|title=Year Ender 2021: Sherni, Mimi, Pagglait, Ajeeb Daastaans Among Top Female-led Films To Watch This Year|url=https://www.news18.com/photogallery/movies/year-ender-2021-sherni-mimi-pagglait-ajeeb-daastaans-among-top-female-led-films-to-watch-this-year-4577594.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[CNN-IBN]] }}</ref> Avantika Chopra of ''[[Indiatimes|IndiaTimes]]'' listed it as one of the best women-centric films of 2021.<ref name= "IndiaTimes2021">{{Cite news|date=December 3, 2021|title=Best Of 2021: Women Centric Shows & Movies To Watch|url=https://www.indiatimes.com/ampstories/entertainment/bollywood/best-women-centric-shows-movies-555813.html|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=[[Indiatimes]] }}</ref> For her performance in ''Thalaivii'', Twinkle Khanna of ''[[Pinkvilla]]'' listed Ranaut as the best female performer of the year 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|date=December 31, 2021|title=Year Ender 2021: Kangana Ranaut, Sushmita Sen to Vidya Balan, Top 10 female performers of the year|url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/year-ender-2021-kangana-ranaut-sushmita-sen-vidya-balan-top-10-female-performers-year-980005|first=Twinkle|last=Khanna|url-status=live|access-date=January 9, 2022|website=[[Pinkvilla]] }}</ref><br />
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== Legal issues ==<br />
The producers initially received permission from Jayalalithaa's nephew Deepak Jayakumar in his request to make it as "an honest portrayal of her life".<ref name=":1" /> However, Jayalalithaa's niece, [[Deepa Jayakumar]], in November 2019, registered a complaint against the film's makers through the [[Madras High Court]]. She asserted that she was the legal heir of Jayalalitha and that before making a movie or a web series about her life, the creators of the film should have approached her. She also said that the film makers have no legal right to make a film about the life of Jayalalithaa, which could affect the privacy of her aunt and her family. Deepa also demanded that the whole script be sent to her well before movie comes to the theatres.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Entertainment|first=Quint|date=28 November 2019|title=Jayalalithaa's Niece Allowed to Sue Kangana-Starrer 'Thalaivi'|url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/bollywood/jayalalithaa-niece-permission-sue-madras-high-court-kangana-ranaut-thalaivi|access-date=6 October 2020|work=TheQuint|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=27 November 2019|title=Trouble for Kangana's 'Thalaivi'? Court gives Jaya's niece Deepa permission to sue|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/trouble-kanganas-thalaivi-court-gives-jayas-niece-deepa-permission-sue-113034|access-date=6 October 2020|work=The News Minute|language=en}}</ref> The Madras High Court gave Deepa approval to take legal action against director AL Vijay, film producer Vishnu and [[Gautham Menon]] who also made a web series about Jayalalithaa's life titled Queen which starred [[Ramya Krishnan]] essaying Jayalalithaa's role.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Jayalalithaa biopic: Madras High Court issues notice to filmmakers |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/entertainment/2019/11/06/jayalalithaa-biopic-madras-high-court-issues-notice-to-filmmakers.html|access-date=6 October 2020|work=The Week|language=en}}</ref><br />
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== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{IMDb title|10152736}}<br />
* {{Bollywood Hungama movie|thalaivi}}<br />
<br />
{{A. L. Vijay}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Indian films]]<br />
[[Category:Hindi-language films]]<br />
[[Category:Indian biographical films]]<br />
[[Category:Indian multilingual films]]<br />
[[Category:Tamil-language films]]<br />
[[Category:Films directed by A. L. Vijay]]<br />
[[Category:Films scored by G. V. Prakash Kumar]]<br />
[[Category:Films postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic]]<br />
[[Category:Jayalalithaa]]<br />
[[Category:Cultural depictions of Indira Gandhi]]<br />
[[Category:M. G. Ramachandran]]<br />
[[Category:Karunanidhi family]]</div>172.70.201.47