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Nool Veli (Nool Veli) (1979) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo

Last updated: 21 Oct 2026

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) (1979) Review

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) (1979), a Tamil drama movie starring Sarath Babu, Sujatha, Saritha, is reviewed here. Directed by K. Balachander. Bucchi Babu, an architect lives a life full of happiness with his wife Vidya and adopts Baby. Bucchi Babu has an affair with Baby. What happens when Vidya gets to know this? Our Rating: 2/5. Verdict: FLOP. Released: 7 Sept 1979. Runtime: 2h 22m.

Nool Veli (Nool Veli)
FLOP

Nool Veli (Nool Veli)(1979)

Tamil · Drama

2h 22m · 7 Sept 1979

Music: M. S. Viswanathan | DOP: B. S. Lokanath | Writer: N/A

FamilyDramaRomance

Ratings

IMDbIMDb0
LetterboxdLetterboxd0
Metacritic UserMetacritic User0
IMDbIMDb6.2
TMDBTMDB0

Our Rating

2

📖 Story

Nool Veli is a Tamil drama that explores the complexities of human relationships and social constraints. The story revolves around the emotional and psychological conflicts faced by the lead characters, highlighting themes of love, betrayal, and societal expectations. The narrative delves into the struggles of individuals trying to break free from metaphorical and literal boundaries represented by the 'Nool Veli' (string fence).

🔍 Analysis

Nool Veli showcases K. Balachander's signature storytelling style, blending intense character-driven drama with social commentary. The screenplay is tightly woven, maintaining a steady pace that allows the audience to engage deeply with the characters' emotional journeys. The first half effectively sets up the conflicts and relationships, while the second half intensifies the drama, leading to a poignant climax.

The film's music by M. S. Viswanathan complements the narrative beautifully, with songs that enhance the emotional tone without overpowering the story. The background score subtly underscores the tension and mood shifts, adding depth to key scenes. Cinematography by B. S. Lokanath captures the nuanced performances and the film's somber atmosphere with finesse.

Overall, Nool Veli stands out for its mature handling of complex themes, strong performances, and a balanced blend of narrative and musical elements, making it a memorable piece in Tamil cinema of the late 1970s.

🎭 Performances

Sarath Babu: Delivered a nuanced and restrained performance, effectively portraying internal conflict.

Sujatha: Brought depth and emotional intensity to her role, anchoring the film's dramatic core.

Saritha: Provided a compelling and heartfelt portrayal, adding layers to the interpersonal dynamics.

Kamal Haasan: Showcased versatility with a subtle yet impactful performance in a supporting role.

J.V. Ramana Murthi: Delivered a solid performance, contributing to the film's narrative strength.

💪 Strengths & Weaknesses

✅

Strengths

  • ✓Strong screenplay with well-developed characters
  • ✓Effective direction by K. Balachander
  • ✓Memorable music and background score by M. S. Viswanathan
  • ✓Powerful performances by lead actors
  • ✓Thought-provoking social themes
❌

Weaknesses

  • ✕Pacing may feel slow to viewers accustomed to faster narratives
  • ✕Limited commercial appeal due to serious subject matter

🎬 Direction & Writing

K. Balachander's direction is meticulous and sensitive, focusing on the emotional depth of characters and social issues. His writing balances drama and realism, avoiding melodrama while delivering impactful storytelling.

📰 Critic Reviews

Gathering critic reviews…

📰 Ratings Sources

SourceRating
IMDbIMDb
0
LetterboxdLetterboxd
0
Metacritic UserMetacritic User
0
IMDbIMDb
6.2
TMDBTMDB
0

Our Rating

2/5
★★★★★★★

💰 Box Office Collection

No collection data available yet.

🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards

No centers data available.

No awards data available.

😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics

TypeValue
Positive—
Neutral—
Negative—

Critics

The film received critical acclaim for its mature narrative and performances. Critics praised Balachander's direction and the film's music, though some noted its slow pacing as a drawback for mainstream audiences.

Final Box-Office Result

FLOP

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

When did Nool Veli (Nool Veli) release in theatres?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) released on 7 September 1979 (1979).

Is Nool Veli (Nool Veli) a hit or flop?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) is declared a FLOP at the box office.

Where to watch Nool Veli (Nool Veli) online? OTT release date?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) OTT release date not announced yet.

Who directed Nool Veli (Nool Veli)?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) directed by K. Balachander.

Who are the main cast members of Nool Veli (Nool Veli)?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) stars Sarath Babu, Sujatha, Saritha, Kamal Haasan, J.V. Ramana Murthi.

What is the Tollybo rating for Nool Veli (Nool Veli)?▾

Tollybo rates Nool Veli (Nool Veli) 2/5. Verdict: FLOP.

Who composed the music for Nool Veli (Nool Veli)?▾

Music for Nool Veli (Nool Veli) composed by M. S. Viswanathan.

What is the genre and runtime of Nool Veli (Nool Veli)?▾

Nool Veli (Nool Veli) — Genre: Drama, Runtime: 142 minutes, Language: Tamil.

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