‘800’ trailer launched: Murali biopic sheds light on untold story of Sri Lanka’s legendary off-spinner

Despite facing frequent and intrusive scrutiny, along with a slew of extensive tests, for his bowling action, cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan rarely engaged in verbal responses.

The off-spinner consistently adhered to the “show, don’t tell” strategy, silencing his critics by showcasing his exceptional skills on the field.

Currently a member of the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, Muralitharan is widely recognised as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history, having achieved the remarkable feat of taking 800 Test wickets and over 530 wickets in ODIs.

Now, the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming biopic titled 800, which will shed light on Muralitharan’s life and journey.

Legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar unveiled the film’s official trailer in Mumbai, accompanied by Muralitharan and former Sri Lankan cricketer and captain Sanath Jayasuriya. 

The 186-second 800 trailer opens by emphasising that the film delves into “The unknown story of Muttiah Muralitharan.” It begins by offering glimpses of the events in Sri Lanka during the 1970s when pogroms targeted the minority Tamils, highlighting the challenges the population faced during that period. 

“For someone who hails from a group of migrant labourers, getting recognised as a citizen itself is very tough,” a voiceover says as we get to see a young man wearing a white cricket jersey kneeling before an armed army personnel who holds him at gunpoint.

As the trailer unfolds, it reveals the transformation of this young man into a revered figure. The promo video showcases his rise to fame, his sharing of the spotlight with cricket legends like Arjuna Ranatunga, and his significant contributions to the legacy of the Sri Lankan cricket team.
The trailer also sheds light on the “no-ball” taunts that were frequently directed at him and how he was unfairly targeted for chucking.

The emotionally charged trailer concludes with Murali making a triumphant comeback and capturing the hearts of the viewers.

Written and directed by MS Sripathy, the film will be released in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu. Starring Madhur Mittal, who won widespread acclaim with his performance as Salim in Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire, in the lead role, 800’s official release date is yet to be announced.

Bankrolled jointly by Movie Train Motion Picture and Vivek Rangachari, 800’s music has been composed by Ghibran while RD Rajasekar ISC has handled its cinematography and Praveen KL the editing.

Source - The Indian Express 

- Agencies