Boys

Story:

“Boys,” a 2003 Indian Tamil-language coming-of-age musical film helmed by the prolific director S. Shankar, serves as the debut platform for a cadre of gifted actors, including Siddharth, Bharath, Manikandan, S. Thaman, Nakul, and Genelia, who made her Tamil debut. The musical maestro A. R. Rahman contributed his genius to the film’s score and soundtrack. Initially released on August 29, 2003, the movie garnered attention for its bold scenes, eventually transforming into a cult classic and earning recognition as one of the most exemplary coming-of-age Tamil films, encapsulating the spirit of youth in the early 2000s.

The narrative revolves around six youths—Munna, Babu Kalyanam “Bob Galy,” Juju, Krishna, and Kumar—each navigating the tumultuous terrain of adolescence. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they bond over shared interests such as a disdain for studies, a proclivity for smoking and drinking, an inclination towards ogling girls, indulgence in sexual escapades, watching pornography, and venting about parental grievances. Their fixation on sexuality reaches a peak when, during Munna’s parents’ absence, they contemplate hiring a prostitute named Rani, only to retract at the last moment.

Enter Mangalam, a middle-aged man initially encountered in a bar as a source of alcohol. Unexpectedly, Mangalam evolves into a mentor figure for the boys. The narrative takes a pivotal turn when the group encounters Harini, a BSc student aspiring to become a doctor. Despite initial failures in wooing her, the boys befriend Harini and her companions. Munna, however, remains captivated by Harini, leading to a series of comedic yet endearing misadventures.

In a bid to win Harini’s heart, Munna plans a daring stunt—streaking on Mount Road for fun, based on Sampatha’s advice. The plan goes awry, resulting in Munna’s arrest and a court order for a fine and one day of imprisonment. Harini, upon learning the truth, bails Munna out, eventually reciprocating his love.
The storyline takes a dramatic turn as parents discover Munna and Harini’s relationship. A meeting ensues, wherein both sets of parents, including Mangalam, decide that the young couple should refrain from contacting each other until their studies conclude. Despite agreeing to these terms, fueled by love, Munna and Harini elope to Tirumala, resulting in their families disowning them. Mangalam becomes their pillar of support as they embark on a challenging journey of self-sufficiency, taking up part-time jobs to sustain themselves.

The film then explores the teenagers’ musical talents as they form a band named “Boys” and gain recognition by composing modern versions of Tamil devotional songs. However, their involvement with a Naxalite group for composing anti-government songs leads to arrest under POTA and expulsion from their colleges.

Post-release, the gang faces hardships and, after multiple attempts, secures a contract with Sony Music for their debut album. Celebration ensues, but a revelation from Krishna about their earlier encounter with Rani strains Munna and Harini’s relationship. Hurt by this revelation, Harini leaves Munna and returns to her parents, despite Munna’s pleas. The gang, realizing that only Rani can prove Munna’s innocence, embarks on a search that tragically leads to Kumar’s death.

Despite challenges, the gang’s debut album becomes a massive hit. However, the absence of Harini as the lead female vocalist poses a hurdle for record labels. When the gang requests Harini’s presence for a live show on MTV, her parents agree on the condition that Munna signs divorce papers. Munna, prioritizing his and his friends’ careers, agrees reluctantly. The live debut is a success, dedicated to Kumar and Mangalam, affectionately referred to as their godfather.

Following the live show, Munna and Harini’s divorce hearing takes place. Mangalam, now the Boys’ manager, fields calls to replace Harini with another girl. Jealousy strikes Harini as she observes pictures of potential replacements, leading to a heated confrontation with Munna. In the midst of their argument, they share a kiss, marking a poignant reconciliation and the cancellation of their divorce.