‘The King Maker’: A Captivating Documentary on RM Veerappan Featuring M.K. Stalin and Rajinikanth
Discover ‘The King Maker’, a powerful documentary on RM Veerappan’s legacy, featuring tributes from M.K. Stalin and Rajinikanth. A tribute to the man who shaped Tamil politics and cinema.
Rajnikanth

A compelling new documentary titled The King Maker, chronicling the life and legacy of veteran politician and film producer RM Veerappan, is currently in the works. Backed by Thangaraj Veerappan of Sathya Movies and helmed creatively by Padam Venu Kumar and his team, the film promises to shed light on the man who shaped Tamil politics and cinema from behind the scenes.
Earlier today, the makers released a powerful preview featuring heartfelt tributes from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and superstar Rajinikanth.
Calling RMV a “firm believer of the Dravidian ideology,” CM Stalin lauded him as “a rare gem in politics,” known for his sharp insights during script discussions and his contributions to Tamil literature and cinema. “He produced films with icons like MGR, Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan,” Stalin noted, adding that RMV also played a guiding role in the Kamban Kazhagam.
Rajinikanth reminisced emotionally, likening RMV to legendary figures like K. Balachander, Cho Ramasamy, and Panchu Arunachalam. Reflecting on the 100-day celebration of Baashha, Rajini revealed how a speech he gave criticizing the then-prevalent bomb culture cost RMV his ministerial post. “Jayalalithaa removed him from his position for not objecting to my comments. I was devastated,” Rajini said.
What followed was a touching exchange. “I couldn’t reach him that night, and when I finally did the next day, I apologized. But RMV sir, with his usual grace, told me not to worry and casually asked about my shoot schedule,” Rajini shared. “He was a true statesman and a kingmaker in every sense of the word.”
RM Veerappan, a stalwart of the Dravidian movement and trusted aide of MGR, played a key role in founding the AIADMK after MGR’s split from DMK. He served as a minister five times between 1977 and 1996 under the leadership of both MGR and Jayalalithaa.
In the film world, RMV produced iconic titles like Deivathaai, Kaavalkaran, Idhayakani, and Rickshakaran with MGR and collaborated with Rajinikanth on blockbusters like Moondru Mugam, Baashha, Panakkaran, and Ranuva Veeran.
The King Maker promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on Tamil Nadu’s sociopolitical and cinematic landscape.
Watch the preview of The King Maker here: