Ponniyin Selvan - Part 1

Mani Ratnam has directed this visually sprawling magnum opus. It is an adaptation of the eponymous historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy. The narrative circles around Arulmozhi Varman, who restored the glory and pride of the Chola dynasty. Aishwarya Rai has reunited with Mani Ratnam to essay both Nandini and Mandakini, the former being the villain and the latter being a hapless mother, who is hearing and speech impaired. The ensemble cast includes Vikram, Sobhita Dhulipala and Aishwarya Lekshmi. Dhulipala is best known for her performance in the Amazon Prime series, Made in Heaven.