Spadikam

2023-03-17T00:02:42Z

2402:E280:3E83:8D:CCA4:74C7:4184:6A22:

{{Short description|1995 film directed by Bhadran}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2019}}
{{Infobox film
| name = Spadikam
| image = Spadikam vr2.jpg
| alt =
| caption = Theatrical release poster
| director = [[Bhadran (director)|Bhadran]]
| producer = R. Mohan
| writer = {{ubl|Bhadran {{small|(Story & Screenplay)}}|Rajendra Babu {{small|(Dialogues)}}}}
| screenplay =
| story =
| starring = [[Mohanlal]]<br>[[Thilakan]]
| music = [[S. P. Venkatesh]]
| cinematography = {{ubl|[[J. Williams (cinematographer)|J. Williams]]|[[S. Kumar (cinematographer)|S. Kumar]]}}
| editing = [[M. S. Mani (film editor)|M. S. Mani]]
| studio = [[Shogun Films|GoodKnight Films]]
| distributor = Manorajyam Release
| released = {{Film date|1995|3|30|India|df=y}}
| runtime = 158 minutes<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/spadikam-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0xmdewodyx|title=Spadikam|website=[[British Board of Film Classification]]}}</ref>
| country = India
| language = Malayalam
| budget = 
| gross = 
}}

'''''Spadikam''''' ({{Translation|Crystal}}) is a 1995 Indian [[Malayalam]]-language [[action drama]] film written and directed by [[Bhadran (director)|Bhadran]] and produced by R. Mohan through [[Shogun Films]]. The film stars [[Mohanlal]] and [[Thilakan]] with [[Urvashi (actress)|Urvashi]], [[Spadikam George]], [[K. P. A. C. Lalitha]], [[Rajan P. Dev]], [[Silk Smitha]], [[Nedumudi Venu]], [[Chippy (actress)|Chippy]], and [[V. K. Sreeraman]] in supporting roles. The film revolves around Thomas Chacko, who is also known by the sobriquet of [[Aadu Thoma]], a ruffian estranged from his [[Narcissistic parent|narcissistic father]], Chacko Mash, upon failing to meet the latter's high expectations.

Development of the script took Bhadran three years to complete. It was based on three real-life ruffians who lived around [[Pala, Kerala|Pala]]. The dialogues were written by Rajendra Babu. [[S. P. Venkatesh]] composed ''Spadikam''<nowiki/>'s soundtrack and background score and [[J. Williams (cinematographer)|J. Williams]] and [[S. Kumar]] were the cinematographers. Valsan and M. S. Mani were the film's art director and editor, respectively. The film was extensively shot in and around the town of [[Changanassery]] in [[Kottayam district]], and was completed in 45 working days. Except for three days of shooting in Madras (now [[Chennai]]), ''Spadikam'' was filmed in [[Kerala]].

Produced on a budget of ₹75 lakh, ''Spadikam'' was released on 30 March 1995 to critical acclaim, primarily for the performances of the lead cast, dialogues and cinematography. It was commercially successful and went on to become one of the highest-grossing films of the year; ''Spadikam'' completed a 100-day run in several centers. In addition to the [[Filmfare Award for Best Film – Malayalam]], ''Spadikam'' won the [[Filmfare Award for Best Director – Malayalam|Best Director]] and [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Malayalam|Best Actor]] at the [[43rd Filmfare Awards South]]. Mohanlal also won the [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor|Kerala State Film Award Best Actor]] at the 27th Kerala State Film Awards. It was remade in [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] as ''[[Vajram (1995 film)|Vajram]]'', [[Tamil cinema|Tamil]] as ''[[Veerappu]]'' and in [[Kannada cinema|Kannada]] as ''[[Mr. Theertha]]''.

''Spadikam'', which attained [[Cult film|cult status]], is considered instrumental in introducing thug life glorification of [[Malayalam cinema|Mollywood]] [[superstar]] s on screen. The film is also considered a milestone in the career of Mohanlal. The film along with ''[[Devaasuram]]'' (1993) indirectly marked the beginning of a new image of Mohanlal, that of an [[action hero]] that would appeal to the masses. The character of [[Aadu Thoma]] has over the years become a [[Pop icon|pop culture icon]].

In March 2020, during the 25th anniversary of the film, the plan to digitally enhance and a re-release it in theatres was announced. A digitally remastered [[Dolby Atmos|4K Dolby Atmos]] version of ''Spadikam'' was released theatrically on 9th February 2023.<ref name=":2" />

== Plot ==
Thomas Chacko, or "Aadu Thoma"<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-29 |title=Mohanlal announces Spadikam re-release: ‘On a Thursday like this 28 years ago, you embraced Adu Thoma’ |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/mohanlal-spadikam-re-release-date-8295734/ |access-date=2022-11-30 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> as he is widely known, is a [[quarry]] owner and a gangster who is the undefeated champion in his confrontations. He is the estranged son of retired school headmaster Chacko, the [[President of India|President]]'s medal winner in mathematics. Thoma is a blemish for the respectable Chacko's reputation, and both never get along. His mother and sister, Jansy, are always left to choose sides, between the two of them; while Chacko's brother – Manimala Vakkachan, supports Thomas.

In the flashback, unlike his father, Thomas was not good at maths, but excelled at mechanical and electronic gadgetry. He made an AM radio receiver inside a soap case, at a time when phonographs were a fad. Thomas's talent astonished others, whereas his father was dismissive. He always compared his son to the best student in the class – Balu, adding to his pressure. His father asked his language teacher, Ravunni Master, to fail his paper, on the belief that only low grades will provoke him to study harder. When Thomas discovered this, he became outraged and burnt the malayalam answer paper in front of Ravunni Master and ran away from the village after stabbing Balu's hand with a compass in anger and sorrow. Later, Ravunni Master resigned from the school after being deeply saddened by the ill fate which happened to Thomas. Fourteen years later, he returned as a changed man, no longer a prodigy. He had become a quarry owner, lorry driver and a gangster. His father still despises him and professes to love his sister more, who lived up to his expectations.

Pookoya, a local baron, is the newly made enemy of Thoma, along with his sub-inspector friend, Kuttikkadan; for supporting Pookoya's daughter's relationship with a penniless teacher. Due to Thomas' relationship with a prostitute, revealed when the police shame him publicly, the [[arranged marriage]] of Jansy's, almost fails, further angering his father. This forces him to rat his son out to the police, on a later occasion, surprising even the S.I. with the act. The relationship between the two further declines after this incident, whereby entering into a fit of rage, Thomas cuts off the sleeves of his father's shirts. Chacko then repaints his son's lorry with the word, ''Chekuthan'' (devil), and plants a coconut tree in front of their house, naming it after Thomas, to insult him. But later, Thomas himself intervenes and restores the marriage alliance.

Meanwhile, Ravunni Master, who resigned after Thomas ran away from the village, comes back with his daughter, Thulasi, who was Thomas's childhood friend. Thulasi, the Vicar of the local church, and Vakkachan, try to mediate between the two, by trying to get Thomas invited by his father, to attend Jansy's wedding. Thomas, who attends the wedding, hoping for the better, is insulted further by his father. This finally makes Jansy stand against her father, stating she prefers her brother's small necklace to her father's high dowry, in her marriage. While the necklace was actually a gift from Thulasi, given by Thomas, this leads him to be deserted on the day of her wedding. Their mother, who was waiting for the wedding to take place, leaves him as well. With his pride struck the worst blow, Chacko is left all alone, to rethink on his actions and decisions.

Soon afterward, Thomas is stabbed by another goon, employed by Pookoya, in retaliation for helping his daughter elope with her lover, the teacher. Chacko secretly visits his son in the hospital, with regret. Coming back to health, Thomas' attempt at revenge is foiled, when Thulasi interferes. On learning that Thulasi loves him, he tries to prevent her. With her help, he tries to back out from his wrong outlook of life. Filled with the guilt of ruining his son's life, Chacko attempts suicide, which Thomas prevents. The two reconcile, thereafter. With a newfound joy, they, together, bring back his mother.

In a desperate attempt for revenge, Thomas's enemies unite against him. In a tragic turn of events, Chacko is shot by S.I. Kuttikadan, while targeting Thomas. Chacko succumbs to his injuries and dies in front of Thomas. He becomes enraged and attacks Kuttikadan. Thomas kills him and is taken into police custody, on charges of murder, leaving the helpless family and Thulasi in tears.

==Cast==
{{colbegin}}
[[File:Mohanlal as 'Aadu Thoma'.jpg|thumb|[[Mohanlal]] as Aadu Thoma]]
* [[Mohanlal]] as Thomas Chacko a.k.a. Aadu Thoma
* [[Thilakan]] as C. P. Chacko / Kaduva Chacko, a retired headmaster; Thoma's father
* [[Spadikam George]] as S.I. Kuttikkadan
* [[Urvashi (actress)|Urvashi]] as Thulasi
* [[Ashokan (actor)|Ashokan]] as Jerry, Jancy's husband
* [[Chippy (actress)|Chippy]] as Jancy Chacko, Thoma's younger sister
* [[K. P. A. C. Lalitha]] as Mary / Ponnamma, Thoma's mother
* [[Rajan P. Dev]] as Manimala Vakkachan, Thoma's uncle
* [[Nedumudi Venu]] as Ravunni master, Thulasi's father
* [[Maniyanpilla Raju]] as Kunju Mohammad, Thoma's friend
* [[Karamana Janardanan Nair]] as Fr. Ottaplakkan
* [[N. F. Varghese]] as Pachu Pillai, Police constable and Balu's father
* [[Nizar (actor)|Nizar]] as Chandy, Thoma's friend
* [[V. K. Sreeraman]] as Pookoya
* [[Silk Smitha]] as Laila
* Bindu Varapuzha as Mumthas
* [[Bahadoor]] as Kurup
* [[Kundara Johny]] as Maniyan, police constable
* [[Bheeman Raghu]] as S.I Somasekharan Pillai
* [[Roopesh Peethambaran]] as Thomas Chacko (childhood)
* Arya Anup as Thulasi (childhood)
* [[Indrans]] as Gafoor
* Spadikam Sunny (PN Sunny) as Torappan Bastian
* [[Paravoor Bharathan]] as Joseph
* [[Kanakalatha]] as Kuttikkadan's wife
* [[Sankaradi]] as Judge
* [[Chali Pala]] as Lukachan
* [[N. L. Balakrishnan]]
* [[Ajith Kollam]]
{{colend}}

==Production==
===Development===
It took two to three years of preparation for the film, the screenplay was rewritten a few times.<ref name="MM1">{{cite news|last=Lekshmi|first=Vijayan|title=Took 2-3 years of preparation for Spadikam: director Bhadran|url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/entertainment/interview/2020/03/31/spadikam-director-bhadran-on-mohanlal-movie-re-release.html |access-date=31 March 2020|work=[[Manorama Online]]|date=31 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200404115649/https://english.manoramaonline.com/entertainment/interview/2020/03/31/spadikam-director-bhadran-on-mohanlal-movie-re-release.html|archive-date=4 April 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> Producer R. Mohan wanted to name the film ''Aadu Thoma'' which he felt was more appealing to the public. But Bhadran wanted to name it ''Spadikam''. The character Thomas Chacko / Aadu Thoma was based on three real-life ruffians who lived around [[Pala, Kerala|Pala]], one of them was known by the nickname ''Irattachankan'' (the man with two hearts), another one used to remove his [[mundu]] to wrap his opponent's head for hitting, and the third one had a downfall during his peaks period. The character Chacko Mash was based on four real-life characters Bhadran knew from his life, one was his own father who used to compare him with other kids, and the other three were his school teachers. In an interview, Bhadran said that ''Spadikam'' was inspired by his own life, but not that the character Aadu Thoma is him, but the film draws inspiration from his parents, village, priest, teachers, and disabilities of the education system at that time.<ref name=":0" />

=== Casting ===
Bhadran said he considered [[Mohanlal]] the best choice for the role because the character of Aadu Thoma as he was not only an alpha male but also had innocence and had self pity, he could emote all these characteristics perfectly. [[Shobana]] was first offered the role of Thulasi, but she could not sign the film as she had to leave for the United States for a dance program she already committed. [[Urvashi (actress)|Urvashi]] was cast in the role. Later Bhadran said that after watching the film he realized Urvashi was in fact the right choice for the role.<ref name="MM2">{{cite news|last=Kuriakose|first=M. K.|title=Bhadran reveals about 'Spadikam' shoot, but why composer Venkatesh is upset|url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/interview/2019/03/05/bhadran-on-spadikam-movie-making-composer-venkatesh-reacts.html|access-date=16 July 2020|work=[[Manorama Online]]|date=5 March 2019}}</ref>

Bhadran wanted [[Thilakan]] to play the role of Chacko, but it was difficult to hire him as they were not in good terms after their last film ''[[Idanazhiyil Oru Kaalocha]]'' (1987), since the two had a verbal dispute during the film's [[Dubbing (filmmaking)|dubbing]] process, as Bhadran recalls, they came close to hitting each other. ''Spadikam'' was written three to four years after this incident. There were suggestions from the film crew to cast [[Nedumudi Venu]] for the role (who was later cast in another role). According to Bhadran, Thilakan acknowledged that it was a mistake on his part and they reconciled, thus he was able to cast him.<ref name="MM2" /> Thilakan's son [[Shammi Thilakan]] later said that he was instrumental in Thilakan's casting, Bhadran used to make unsuccessful visits to see Thilakan while he was in the hospital, but was not permitted by Thilakan. Shammi then acted as an agent for Bhadran to present him the story of ''Spadikam'' while he was in a good mood.<ref>{{cite news |author=Keralakaumudi Daily |date=25 September 2019 |title=Story behind birth of 'Spadikam' that no one knows |work=[[Kerala Kaumudi]] |url=https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=160391&u=story-behind-birth-of-%E2%80%98spadikam%E2%80%99-that-no-one-knows |access-date=16 July 2020}}</ref>

[[Nassar (actor)|Nassar]] was originally fixed in the role of S.I Kuttikkadan, but he was unable to reach on schedule due to the unexpected extension of the schedule of another film he was filming. Bhadran found [[Spadikam George]] for the role accidentally when he saw him in front of a hotel he was staying. Impressed by his physique, Bhadran offered him the role, only then he realized George had already acted in a few films, he immediately agreed. [[Roopesh Peethambaran]], who portrayed Thomas Chacko's childhood, himself asked for a role in the film when Bhadran visited their home, his father Peethambaran was Bhadran's friend. The man who played a goon named Thorappan Bastin hired to finish off Aadu Thoma was originally a cop.<ref name="TOI1">{{cite news |last=Soman |first=Deepa |date=15 November 2019 |title=Director Bhadran: Spadikam is a film that is inspired by my own life |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/director-bhadran-spadikam-is-a-film-that-is-inspired-by-my-own-life/articleshow/72057642.cms |access-date=16 July 2020}}</ref> [[Santosh Sivan]] and [[Sabu Cyril]] were initially considered as cinematographer and art director respectively. However, they both unexpectedly left without citing a reason. This delayed shooting plans by a month and a half <ref>[https://www.doolnews.com/director-bhadran-comment-on-sabu-cyril-64-125.html/amp സ്ഫടികത്തില്‍ നിന്ന് സാബു സിറിള്‍ ഇറങ്ങിപ്പോയി, പോണ പോക്കില്‍ സന്തോഷ് ശിവനെയും പിടിച്ചോണ്ട് പോയി: ഭദ്രന്‍] ''DoolNews'', 15 February 2023</ref>

===Filming===
The film was extensively shot in and around the town of [[Changanassery]] in [[Kottayam district]]. The house named Thekkedathu Mana was used as the house of Aadu Thoma and Chacko Mash. It was situated in Kudamaloor, Kottayam.<ref>{{cite news|last=Jimmy|first=Alphonsa|title=This is the house where 'Spadikam' was shot|url=http://travel.manoramaonline.com/travel/getting-around-kerala/spadikam-movie-thekkedathu-mana-illam-traditional-house-shooting-location.html|access-date=22 February 2018|work=[[Malayala Manorama]]|date=28 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180223051818/http://travel.manoramaonline.com/travel/getting-around-kerala/spadikam-movie-thekkedathu-mana-illam-traditional-house-shooting-location.html|archive-date=23 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The house was former [[Kerala]] [[chief minister]] [[E. M. S. Namboodiripad]]'s mother's ''[[tharavadu]]''.<ref name="TOI1"/> The scene in which Kuttikkadan arrest Thoma and Laila was filmed in Changanassery market.<ref>{{cite news|author=Keralakaumudi Daily|title=സ്ഫടികത്തിൽ ലാലിന്റെ സപ്പോർട്ട് അപാരമായിരുന്നു, അതുതന്നെയാണ് എന്റെ കഥാപാത്രത്തിന്റെ വിജയം|url=https://keralakaumudi.com/news/news.php?id=59725&u=mohanlals-support-was-infinite-says-spadikam-george-59725|access-date=16 July 2020|work=[[Kerala Kaumudi]]|date=15 March 2019|language=ml}}</ref> The climax scene was filmed in a [[quarry]] in [[Chennai]]. George was injured while performing a stunt scene where he jumps in front of a moving jeep driven by Mohanlal. Due to his weight, he could not roll away from the vehicle as expected and the tyre ran over his leg. The injury was not serious and he recuperated in a few days.<ref name=":0">{{cite news|author=Keralakaumudi|title=ലാൽ ഓടിച്ച ജീപ്പ് എന്റെ നേരെ വന്നു, കാലിലൂടെ വണ്ടി കയറിയിറങ്ങി, പിന്നീട് മോഹൻലാൽ ഇക്കാര്യം തിരക്കുമായിരുന്നു: സ്ഫടികം ജോർജ്|url=https://keralakaumudi.com/news/news.php?id=56707&u=cinema-spadikam-george-accident-spadikam-movie-56707|access-date=16 July 2020|work=[[Kerala Kaumudi]]|date=6 March 2019|language=ml}}</ref>

==Music==
{{Infobox album
| name = Spadikam
| type = Soundtrack
| longtype =
| artist = [[S. P. Venkatesh]]
| cover =
| alt =
| released = 30 March 1995
| recorded =
| venue =
| studio =
| genre = [[Film soundtrack|Feature film soundtrack]]
| length = 19:21
| language = [[Malayalam]]
| label = Wilson Audios
| producer = [[S. P. Venkatesh]]
| prev_title = [[Mannar Mathai Speaking]]
| prev_year = 1995
| next_title = Puthukottayile Puthumanavalan
| next_year = 1995
}}

The film's original songs and [[background score]] were composed by [[S. P. Venkatesh]]; lyrics for the songs were written by [[P. Bhaskaran]]. The soundtrack album was released by the label Wilson Audios. It consists of three songs. The song ''Ezhimala Poonchola'' was sung by [[K. S. Chithra]] and Mohanlal, ''Ormakal'' has a female and male version sung by Chithra and [[M. G. Sreekumar]], respectively, Chithra also sung ''Parumala Cheruvile''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Spadikam (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) - EP by S. P. Venkitesh on Apple Music|url=https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/spadikam-orginal-motion-picture-soundtrack-ep/1063137490|publisher=[[iTunes]]|access-date=22 February 2018|date=16 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180223052248/https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/spadikam-orginal-motion-picture-soundtrack-ep/1063137490|archive-date=23 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The film's songs were chartbusters.<ref name="The Times of India">{{cite news |date=25 May 2016 |title=10 Mohanlal films to watch before you die |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://m.timesofindia.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/photo-features/10-mohanlal-films-to-watch-before-you-die/photostory/52433967.cms}}</ref>

{{tracklist
| headline = Spadikam (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| total_length = 19:21

| title1 = Ezhimala Poonchola
| extra1 = [[K. S. Chithra]], [[Mohanlal]]
| length1 = 5:02

| title2 = Ormakal
| extra2 = [[K. S. Chithra]]
| length2 = 4:56

| title3 = Ormakal
| extra3 = [[M. G. Sreekumar]]
| length3 = 4:56

| title4 = Parumala Cheruvile
| extra4 = [[K. S. Chithra]]
| length4 = 4:27
}}

==Release ==
''Spadikam'' was released on 30 March 1995. The film was certified with an [[U certificate (India)|U certificate]] by the [[Central Board of Film Certification]].

===Re-release===
The film's [[digital remastering]] and [[Film preservation|restoration]] work was announced in March 2020. The original plan was to re-release the film in [[4K resolution|4K]] [[Dolby Atmos]] in at least 100 theatres in Kerala during [[Onam]] 2020, but was halted after the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref name="digital1">{{cite news|last=Rajan|first=Silpa|title='Spadikam' is three times better in terms of audio-visual experience when converted into 4K Dolby Atoms: Director Bhadran|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/spadikam-is-three-times-better-in-terms-of-audio-visual-experience-when-converted-into-4k-dolby-atoms-director-bhadran/articleshow/75253228.cms|access-date=16 July 2020|work=[[The Times of India]]|date=20 April 2020}}</ref> The remastering costed around ₹2 crore to complete and was done in [[Prasad Corporation]] in [[Chennai]] and [[S. P. Venkitesh|S. P. Venktesh]] worked on the [[Re-recording (filmmaking)|re-recording]] of the film, except for the portions where music comes along with dialogues as they could not dub the film again. In an interview Bhadran said that they will try to answer the doubt of audience that what happens to Aadu Thoma at the climax of the film. He also said that the remastered version will be three times better than the original in terms of audio-visual experience.<ref name="digital2">{{cite news|author=Entertainment desk|title=Mohanlal starrer Spadikam to re-release in digital format|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/mohanlal-spadikam-to-re-release-in-digital-format-6340610/|access-date=16 July 2020|work=[[The Indian Express]]|date=31 March 2020}}</ref> The remastered version is 8.5 minutes longer than the original film as a few additional shots and also a scene introducing the character of Aadu Thoma. The new scene will feature 500 goats instead of the original 40.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-09 |title=Spadikam 4K re-releases: Mohanlal's introduction scene re-shot; New version 8.5 mins longer than original |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/spadikam-4k-re-releases-mohanlals-introduction-scene-re-shot-new-version-8-5-mins-longer-than-original-1208665 |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}}</ref>The film was distributed by newly formed company Geometrics. The remastering was done in Four Frames studio in Chennai. It is also notable that the hit song “ezhimalapoonchola” was re-recorded with KS Chithra and Mohanlal. The expenses for the re-release was around ₹2 cr.<ref name=":3" />

On 29 November 2022, Mohanlal announced through social media that the remastered version of ''Spadikam'' will finally hit on theatres on 9 February 2023.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=richa |title=Spadikam: Mohanlal’s 1995 popular film to re-release in 4K Dolby Atmos on THIS date-watch trailer |url=https://newsable.asianetnews.com/entertainment/spadikam-mohanlal-1995-popular-film-to-re-release-in-4k-dolby-atmos-on-this-date-watch-trailer-rba-rpntca |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=en}}</ref> The remastered version's trailer was released on 6th February 2023 on the Matinee Now YouTube channel.<ref name=":2" /> Several of the film's key actors had passed away at the time of the film's re-release, namely: Thilakan, K. P. A. C Lalitha, Silk Smitha, Nedumudi Venu, Rajan P. Dev, N. F. Varghese, Sankaradi, Karamana Janardanan Nair, Paravoor Bharathan and Bahadoor.<ref>{{Cite web |title='സ്ഫടികം' വീണ്ടുമെത്തുമ്പോൾ ഇവരെ ഓർക്കാതിരിക്കാനാവുമോ? |url=https://malayalam.indianexpress.com/entertainment/spadikam-re-release-remembering-thilakan-kpac-lalitha-silk-smitha-karamana-sankaradi-nedumudi-751755/ |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=Indian Express Malayalam |language=ml}}</ref>

On February 9, 2023, a digitally remastered version of the film with [[4K resolution]] and [[Dolby Atmos]] sound was re-released on 150 theatres in Kerala and around 500 theatres world wide. The film received an overwhelming response from the audience resulting in a collection of ₹77 lakhs on the first day, setting new record for any re-release of an Indian film.<ref>{{Cite web |title=രണ്ടാം വരവിൽ റെക്കോഡ് നേട്ടവുമായി 'സ്ഫടികം'; ആദ്യ ദിനം നേടിയത് 77 ലക്ഷം |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/special-pages/spadikam/mohanlal-bhadran-movie-spadikam-re-release-set-new-collection-record-1.8298418 |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en}}</ref> <ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=ആദ്യ കാഴ്ച ഞെട്ടിച്ചു; പല സിനിമകളുടെയും നെഗറ്റീവുകൾക്കൊപ്പം പൊടിപിടിച്ച് സ്ഫടികത്തിന്റെ ഫിലിം |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/special-pages/spadikam/mohanlal-bhadran-spadikam-movie-4k-released-1.8295314 |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en}}</ref>

Sajesh Mohan of ''[[Onmanorama]]'' wrote "What makes Aadu Thoma irresistible is the superlative performance of Mohanlal. In ''Spadikam'', Mohanlal is at his entertaining best as the unruly son who returns home after 14 years of self-imposed exile. Bhadran and R Mohan understood the pulse of the audience then. And their concoction has only aged perfectly, proves the response inside the theatre. However, At a time when political correctness is the buzzword, the viewers would find themselves at a tug of war while rewatching some of the Malayalam runaway hits and cult classics of yesteryears. It is the same for ''Spadikam''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=‘Spadikam 4K’: It's crystal clear why Mohanlal’s Aadu Thoma is iconic |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/2023/02/09/spadikam-remastered-version-bhadran-mohanlal-movie-review.html |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=Onmanorama}}</ref>

[[Anna M. M. Vetticad]] of ''[[Firstpost]]'' wrote, "As I watched ''Spadikam'' this morning in a theatre in Delhi, I could not view it through a prism of nostalgia though. For as much as the storyline is gripping and substantial, the film is/was also committed to exaggeration and over-statement in the writing of situations and characters, and the acting by several members of the cast (Indrans’ over-acting in a supporting role, for one, is embarrassing to say the least); and the writer-director’s mindset regarding women characters other than Jancy and Mary was appalling."<ref name=":1" />

== Reception ==
=== Box office ===
It was a major commercial success.<ref name="The Times of India" /> According to an article by ''[[Deepika (newspaper)|Deepika]]'' in 1995, ''Spadikam'' was a [[Blockbuster (entertainment)|blockbuster]], grossing over {{INRConvert|28|c}}, becoming one the highest grossing film of the year.<ref name="report">{{cite news|title=കോടികളുടെ തിളക്കം|url=http://i67.tinypic.com/9ulzl5.jpg|access-date=22 February 2018|work=[[Deepika (newspaper)|Deepika]]|date=1995|archive-url=https://archive.today/20180222182644/http://i67.tinypic.com/9ulzl5.jpg|archive-date=22 February 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, a later trade analysis by ''[[Nana (magazine)|Nana]]'' cited ''[[The King (1995 film)|The King]]'' (1995) as the highest grosser.<ref>{{Cite news |title=1995-ലെ ഏറ്റവും വലിയ സിനിമ കളക്ഷൻ |pages=18 |work=[[Chithrabhumi]] |url=https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/91adc89d91fbcc470ef245f71a4dcd0f.jpg |archive-url=https://archive.ph/82dHF |archive-date=15 December 2022}}</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230213174857/https://scontent.fblr1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/117536514_604883686838048_8334649686047899613_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=3uwj-yBWbMcAX9NI2SM&_nc_oc=AQljfC3_wjz14pglGNnKXsaL3FEjLHtOzfQvtsxi6rX6l_vbqu4NM9dMv0Aubv886H8&_nc_ht=scontent.fblr1-5.fna&oh=00_AfAp2Tyk9EIWtOmsWf4JElTn4HDt09hPcL5QIA5JgwUe7g&oe=6411E039 "95-ലെ നായകന്മാർ"]. ''Nana''. Archived from the original on 13 February 2023. Retrieved 13 February 2023.</ref> Over the years, the film has achieved a [[Cult film|cult]] following.<ref name="digital1" /> Aadu Thoma has since then become one of the iconic characters in Malayalam cinema.<ref name="digital2" />

=== Critical response ===
In 2018, Fahir Maithutty of ''[[The News Minute]]'' wrote, "There are mass action entertainers. There are beautiful family dramas. And then there is ''Spadikam''."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-03-30 |title='Spadikam': 23 years on, this Mohanlal film remains a favourite Malayalam action flick |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/spadikam-23-years-mohanlal-film-remains-favourite-malayalam-action-flick-78731 |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref> In 2023, while reviewing the digitally remastered version, [[Anna M. M. Vetticad]] of ''[[Firstpost]]'' wrote, "The unflagging energy of the narrative, its pace, the script’s push to leave children unfettered so that they may follow their dreams, the songs, the charismatic cast and a career-elevating performance by Mohanlal are what make this film memorable."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2023-02-09 |title=Spadikam re-released: The parable of the prodigal son overturned in a 1990s Malayalam commercial framework-Entertainment News , Firstpost |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/spadikam-re-released-the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son-overturned-in-a-1990s-malayalam-commercial-framework-12131702.html |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=Firstpost |language=en}}</ref>

=== Accolades ===
At the [[Kerala State Film Awards]], Mohanlal won the [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]].<ref>{{cite web|title=State Film Awards (1991–99)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303234157/http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/stateawards3.htm|archive-date=3 March 2016|url=http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/stateawards3.htm|publisher=[[Kerala State Chalachitra Academy]]|access-date=23 February 2018}}</ref> The film won three awards at the [[Filmfare Awards South]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.filmfare.com/site/nov96/faward.htm |title=Filmfare Awards |website=www.filmfare.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991010171143/http://www.filmfare.com/site/nov96/faward.htm |archive-date=10 October 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Award
! Category
! Recipient
! Result
|-
| [[Kerala State Film Awards]]
| [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| Mohanlal
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="3"|[[Filmfare Awards South]]
| [[Filmfare Award for Best Film – Malayalam|Best Film – Malayalam]]
| R. Mohan, Bhadran
| {{won}}
|-
| [[Filmfare Award for Best Director – Malayalam|Best Director – Malayalam]]
| Bhadran
| {{won}}
|-
| [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Malayalam|Best Actor – Malayalam]]
| Mohanlal
| {{won}}
|}

==Remakes==
The film was remade in [[Telugu language|Telugu]] as ''[[Vajram (1995 film)|Vajram]]'' (1995), in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] as ''[[Veerappu]]'' (2007)<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://cinema.dinamalar.com/tamil-news/34110/cinema/Kollywood/Mohanlal-movies-and-their-remakes.htm |title=மோகன்லாலும், பின்னே தமிழ் ரீமேக்கும்... |date=5 July 2015 |work=[[Dinamalar]] |access-date=19 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180519032352/http://cinema.dinamalar.com/tamil-news/34110/cinema/Kollywood/Mohanlal-movies-and-their-remakes.htm |archive-date=19 May 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> and in [[Kannada]] as ''[[Mr. Theertha]]'' (2010).

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Film
! Language
! Cast
! Director
|-
| 1995 || ''[[Vajram (1995 film)|Vajram]]'' ||Telugu ||[[Akkineni Nagarjuna|Nagarjuna]] || [[S. V. Krishna Reddy]]
|-
| 2007 || ''[[Veerappu]]'' ||Tamil ||[[Sundar C.]] || [[Badri (director)|Badri]]
|-
| 2010 ||''[[Mr. Theertha]]'' ||Kannada ||[[Sudeep]] ||[[Sadhu Kokila]]
|}

== Cancelled sequel ==
Bhadran has clarified that the film will not have a sequel. He recalled in an interview that producer Mohan once approached him offering a [[Mercedes Benz]] as remuneration for making a sequel to ''Spadikam'', but he declined it. He said that the film ended with a closure for the story. The story was about a father who considers his son a devil and later realizes that his son was not a devil but pure as crystal. Thomas Chacko became Aadu Thoma because his father never understood his aspirations and dreams, instead compared him with other students and constantly snubbed him. Now that his father has acknowledged him, there is no reason for him to go back to his same despicable life. He has transformed back to Thomas Chacko from Aadu Thoma.<ref name="MM1"/>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{IMDb title|0292246}}

[[Category:1995 films]]
[[Category:1990s Malayalam-language films]]
[[Category:Indian action drama films]]
[[Category:Films shot in Palakkad]]
[[Category:Films directed by Bhadran]]
[[Category:Malayalam films remade in other languages]]
[[Category:1995 action drama films]]

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