Title: Vettaiyan
Release Date: October 10, 2024
Rating: 2.75/5
Cast: Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Dushara Vijayan
Director: T.J. Gnanavel
Producer: Subaskaran Allirajah
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Cinematography: S.R. Kathir
Editor: Philomin Raj
Superstar Rajinikanth’s much-awaited Vettaiyan finally graces the big screens. With high expectations for this action-filled crime saga, let’s see how it fares.
Story:
The plot revolves around Athiyan (Rajinikanth), an encounter specialist known for his unique sense of justice, often walking a fine line between right and wrong. His life is forever changed after meeting Sharanya (Dushara Vijayan), a fearless teacher who stands against injustice. When she’s unexpectedly murdered, Athiyan is plunged into a quest for answers: Who is behind her death? How is he inadvertently connected to a case that results in the death of an innocent? How does Nataraj (Rana Daggubati) fit into this twisted story? The film unravels these mysteries.
Strengths:
Rajinikanth shines as Athiyan, effortlessly embodying a character who’s both intense and layered, bringing his iconic screen presence to life with energy. The film delivers thrilling mass moments and action sequences that play to Rajinikanth’s strengths.
Amitabh Bachchan adds a nuanced layer, portraying a character who seeks justice swiftly, contrasting well with Rajinikanth’s moral complexities. Their dynamics bring depth to the storyline. Rana Daggubati’s chemistry with Rajinikanth also stands out, with the two sharing strong scenes. Rana’s character progression in the latter half is particularly engaging.
Fahadh Faasil adds complexity, while Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Abhirami, Rohini, Rao Ramesh, and Dushara Vijayan deliver solid support, building out the narrative with their performances.
The film’s emotional pivot, driven by the murder, brings intensity to the first half. Anirudh’s background score amplifies the suspense, while T.J. Gnanavel strikes a balance between the film’s action and emotional moments.
Weaknesses:
Although the storyline is promising, certain aspects could have been more compelling. The somber tone sometimes overshadows the intended emotional connections, slowing down parts of the narrative.
The pacing in the second half occasionally drags, with a few scenes feeling prolonged. A more defined arc for Rana’s character could have intensified the film’s stakes, enhancing the overall engagement.
Though the lead roles are strong, the investigation segments sometimes lack the intensity needed, and the second half doesn’t maintain the momentum set in the first, diluting the climax’s impact.
Technical Aspects:
Anirudh Ravichander’s music, particularly the background score, lifts the action scenes. Editing by Philomin Raj is effective, though a crisper approach in the latter half could improve the film’s flow. S.R. Kathir’s cinematography captures the action impressively, while high production values from producer A. Subaskaran add polish.
Final Verdict:
Vettaiyan is a crime thriller that has its moments, showcasing Rajinikanth’s powerful presence and emotional range, paired with thrilling action. However, the film’s pacing issues and the second half’s reduced intensity may temper the experience. It’s a treat for Rajinikanth’s fans and those who enjoy a suspenseful action film, but it’s best enjoyed with measured expectations.
