In Good Bad Ugly, director Adhik Ravichandran seems more invested in showcasing Ajith Kumar’s swagger than delivering a tightly woven narrative. While the first half keeps the momentum alive with style and energy, the emotional weight begins to wane post-interval, leaving the second half feeling noticeably flatter. Even so, the film lands at a decent 3.5 out of 5, thanks largely to Ajith’s charismatic return.
Plot:
Ajith Kumar takes on the role of AK, also known as Red Dragon—a former gangster who has just completed an 18-year prison sentence. His son Vihaan (Karthikeya Dev), now 18, longs to connect with his father, unaware of the violent legacy he carries. But AK’s hopes for a peaceful reunion are shattered when he discovers that Vihaan has been dragged into the dark world of drugs. To save his son, AK is forced to return to his old life and hunt down those responsible, ultimately confronting twin crime lords Jammie and Johnny (Arjun Das), who are at the heart of the drug network.
Review:
Good Bad Ugly plays out like a fan-service fest for Ajith Kumar loyalists. Director Adhik Ravichandran packs the film with callbacks to Ajith’s previous roles, crafting a high-energy tribute that will likely thrill fans. While this approach isn’t groundbreaking—Karthik Subbaraj did something similar with Petta—Adhik’s version is louder and far more unapologetic.
Ajith Kumar delivers a dynamic and stylish performance, bringing back the screen presence fans have missed. Trisha, despite limited screen time, adds a layer of elegance. Arjun Das, tasked with portraying both villains, puts in a commendable effort, though his characters lack lasting impact.
The film’s first half moves briskly and looks polished, with Abinandhan Ramanujam’s cinematography adding visual finesse. However, GV Prakash Kumar’s music doesn’t quite elevate the drama, with only a few effective background score moments. The dubbing also feels uneven at times, dulling the film’s impact.
While Ajith shines throughout, the film’s emotional core—especially the father-son bond—falls flat. The second half struggles to maintain tension, and the story never rises above predictable beats.
Final Words:
Good Bad Ugly is a stylish comeback vehicle for Ajith Kumar, built to excite his fanbase more than to tell a deep or gripping story. With its sleek visuals and nostalgic moments, it offers enough flair to keep viewers engaged—at least for the first half. But beyond Ajith’s screen presence, the film lacks the punch and emotion needed to make it truly memorable.
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