The film's filmography — though limited to essentially one major feature — has expanded through the creativity of its fans. Every new "popular video" is a testament to the film's enduring humour. In an era of big star vehicles, 73 420 reminds us that a clever script and a relatable "420" can outshine the biggest productions.

A landmark film directed by K. Balachander, which was a breakthrough for Kamal Haasan, though he had appeared as a child artist previously.