Rating: 4/5
“Vettaiyan,” directed by TJ Gnanavel, is finally here, bringing cinematic history to life by uniting two legendary actors—Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan—on the big screen. Packed with an impressive supporting cast, including Rana Daggubati, Fahadh Faasil, and Manju Warrier, the film offers a powerful experience. It earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars for its gripping narrative and stellar performances.
Plot:
The story kicks off with Athiyan (Rajinikanth), an encounter specialist known for his no-nonsense approach to justice, willing to blur moral lines to deliver it. However, his rigid worldview is challenged when he meets Sharanya (Dushara Vijayan), an idealistic schoolteacher who believes that injustice can never be justified. Tragically, Sharanya is murdered, leaving Athiyan haunted by questions—who killed her, and how far should he go to uncover the truth?
Things take a dramatic turn when Guna, a prime suspect, escapes from police custody. The commissioner of Chennai assigns Athiyan to track him down. At the same time, Satyadev (Amitabh Bachchan), a revered judge committed to ensuring no innocent person suffers, enters the picture. The ideological clash between Athiyan’s vigilante mindset and Satyadev’s measured sense of justice becomes a central conflict in the narrative.
When Guna is eventually killed in a police encounter led by Athiyan, the question of legitimacy looms large. Was Guna truly Sharanya’s murderer, or was this encounter a rushed attempt to tie up loose ends? As the investigation deepens, Athiyan must confront uncomfortable truths, keeping audiences glued to their seats.
Review
Rajinikanth delivers a magnetic performance, effortlessly embodying the role of a morally complex cop. His fanbase will find much to celebrate, as his on-screen presence is larger than life. Amitabh Bachchan, on the other hand, brings gravitas to his role, and their rare on-screen chemistry adds a unique flavor to the film. However, some viewers might feel that the pacing of the movie is uneven, with a slower second half that makes it feel more suited to an OTT release.
On the technical front, the cinematography and music stand out, adding depth to the narrative. The action sequences are well-executed, and the background score elevates the tension during key moments.
While Vettaiyan might not appeal universally, Rajinikanth’s die-hard fans are in for a treat. The emotional beats in the first half engage the audience effectively, though the second half could have used tighter editing. Despite its minor flaws, the film succeeds in being both entertaining and thought-provoking.
