Soori’s transition from comedy actor to lead actor in Vetrimaran’s Viduthalai Part 1 was a stunning revelation to most people. With his performance in his second lead role in Gardudan he has proved beyond any doubt that his performance in Viduthalai was not a one-shot wonder. Garudan stars Soori in the lead role along with Sasikumar and Malayalee actor Unni Mukundan. The supporting cast includes RV Udhayakumar, Samuthrakani, Vadivukkarasi Roshni Haripriyan, Shrivada, Revathy Sharma, George Maryan and Mime Gopi.
Soori plays Sokkan, an orphan who, in childhood, was taken under the wing by fellow orphan, Karuna (Unni Mukundan). The two of them share a close bond with another orphan, Aadhi (Sasikumar). The three of them were raised by a kind hearted old lady (Vadivukkarasi). Sokkan is a loyal friend to Karuna and Aadhi and fiercely protective of Karuna. When a Minister contacts the local Temple to buy a piece of land donated by a wealthy family, it marks the beginning of a trying time for the three of them, as relationships and loyalties become redefined, proving that some men are easily weakened by the lure of property, women and gold.
Garudan, is one of the finest films to release in a long time and certainly the best film of 2024 thus far. It is not just the fast-moving and absorbing story that makes the film an outstanding one, it is also RS Durai Sendhilkumar’s incredible writing in the script and screenplay that provides the perfect framework for electrifying performances from its cast. In the opening 30 minutes of the film, the major characters are introduced, insight given into the relationships and the challenges facing each of them.
Not enough can be said of Soori’s acting performance in this film which is easily the best performance by any lead actor in a very long time. From his voice intonation to body language to enthralling facial expressions, it is a polished and magical portrayal by Soori. He shines in the film’s organic comedy scenes and the multiple transitions he undergoes are marked by an intense performance, each with its unique intricacies.
Sasaikumar is once again in splendid form in a role that was tailor-made for him. Samuthrakani combines subtlety, understatement and body language with powerful expressions to ensure that his character remains an integral part of the film. Roshni Haripriyan, Sashivada and Revathy Sharma shine brilliantly in roles that redefine the portrayal of women in contemporary society. Vadivukarasi packs a surprise punch in her role while director RV Udhayakumar makes a good villain. Unni Mukundan as Karuna is very good but is overshadowed by the performances of the other lead actors. George Maryan and Brigida Saga are the best of the others.
Vetrimaran’s story has been brilliantly developed by an intense screenplay through one of the most powerful scripts in recent times. RS Durai Sendhilkumar’s ability to extend the characters beyond the script, his attention to detail, his use of organic humour and the ability to convey raw emotions through his screenplay make this one of his best efforts to date. Sendhilkumar also makes use of subtle verbal and visual metaphors to underscore vital aspects of his screenplay.
Cinematographer Arthur A Wilson delivers multiple jaw-dropping moments with the artistic splendour of his shots, his brilliant framing and composition and his creative use of colour. The brilliance of his craft needs a second viewing to be truly appreciated.
The cinematography is masterfully augmented by the genius of editor Pradeep E Ragav.
After some sub-standard performances of late, Yuvanshankar Raja is back in magnificent form, shining the brightest with his background score, ensuring that his contribution to the film is a memorable one.
Mahesh Matthew’s stunts are very impressive and largely realistic, with the climax sequences forming a blight on an otherwise brilliant effort.
Sendhilkumar has relied on narration to cover crucial aspects of the introduction and the lapse in the closing minutes of the film are slight blemishes in an otherwise perfect effort.
Despite its violence quotient, Garudan is a stunning film with outstanding acting performances and a memorable script that leaves one trapped in the world of the film long after the end credits roll.Garudan scores 9 points out of 10.