Jolly (film)

Jolly is a 1998 Indian Tamil-language coming-of-age film directed by newcomer Dilipkumar and produced by R. B. Choudary. The film stars Abbas, Keerthi Reddy, Kausalya, Livingston and Khushbu, while S. P. Balasubrahmanyam and Janagaraj also appear in supporting roles. It was released on 7 May 1998. The film was partially reshot in Telugu with the same title.

Plot
Gowri Shankar, a man facing financial struggles, embarks on a journey to Dubai in hopes of improving his family's fortunes. However, the loving encouragement of his mother and Chillakamma redirects his path towards education and stability. Enrolling in a prestigious college, Shankar encounters Anitha, also known as Anee, initiating tension between them.

Their relationship begins poorly when Shankar inadvertently ruins one of Anitha's paintings, earning her ire. Despite a well-intentioned compliment from Shankar on her birthday, a mishap with a gifted bicycle further strains their rapport. Anitha, deeply upset by these incidents, warns Shankar against any future gestures she may misinterpret.

As Shankar academically excels and earns admiration from both peers and faculty, including the respected lecturer Khusbhoo, Anitha seeks to alter her perception of him. However, a misunderstanding on a train leads to Anitha unfairly blaming Shankar for her misbehavior, and this results in his expulsion from the college.

The narrative changes with the introduction of Chakravathy, portrayed by Livingston, whose comedic portrayal adds depth to the story line. His antics and pursuit of Khusbhoo's affection provide levity and provide a diversion from the dramatic tension.

Eventually, with Chakravathy's assistance, Khusbhoo unravels the truth behind Shankar's dismissal, restoring his reputation. Shankar and Anitha, united in their quest for justice, thwart Chakravathy and Khusbhoo's nascent romance, opting instead for a pragmatic decision to register their marriage.

However, familial discord arises when Chakravathy's father, motivated by greed, manipulates Anitha's father into arranging her marriage with another suitor. In an attempt to evade this arranged marriage, Anitha and her friends seek refuge in Shankar's village, where a revealing encounter prompts Shankar to confront his feelings.

The impending marriage is averted when it comes to light that Anitha's intended groom is already married and involved in illicit activities. In the aftermath, Anitha's father implores Shankar to marry his daughter, but Shankar, steadfast in his principles, declines, pledging himself instead to Chillakamma.

Gowri Shankar's tale epitomizes the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, underscored by the enduring bonds of friendship and love that guide him through life's trials.

Production
Vignesh was originally meant to form a part of the cast, but was later dropped. Despite indications that Shiva would score the music, newcomer Kavi was given the opportunity.

Soundtrack
Soundtrack was composed by Kavi.
 * Unnai Thotta Pattampoochi – Sujatha
 * Nandhavaname Nandhavaname – Hariharan, Swarnalatha
 * Idhu Vaazhkaiyil Thirunal (Friendship Day) – Unnikrishnan, Swarnalatha
 * Otha Kallu Mookuthi – K. S. Chithra, S. P. Sailaja, Arunmozhi
 * Jolly Sema Jolly – Mano, Febi Mani
 * Yele Yelo Nee AC Hall – Mano, Anuradha Sriram
 * A Plus B Square – S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
 * Ettukkum Pathukkum Idaiyilathan – Swarnalatha
 * Katchi Kodi Ellam Colora – Swarnalatha

Reception
D. S. Ramanujam of The Hindu wrote, "Debutant director Dilip Kumar, who takes credit for the story, screenplay and dialogue, not knowing which portion of the theme to improve upon, the comedy aspect or the minuscule of a drama, sinks in the quagmire he creates". K. N. Vijiyan of New Straits Times wrote, "I liked the director's empasis on educational values. And, at least, you don't have a hero whose sole interest seems to be having a jolly good time in the campus".