VETTAIYAN Review

TJ Gnanavel’s latest movie, Vettaiyan, is a noble attempt to merge the elements of a typical Rajinikanth mass entertainer with the sensibilities of serious cinema. Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil and Rana Dagubati head a stellar cast that includes Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Dushara Vijayan, Rohini, Kishore, Rakshan, Asal Kolaar, Abirami, Ramesh Thilak, GM Sunder and a special guest appearance by Anirudh Ravichander.

Rajinikanth plays Athiyan, an encounter specialist with an unblemished record who assists school teacher, Saranya (Dushara Vijayan) to deal with a growing drug problem at her school. Following this, Saranya relocates to Chennai where tragedy follows. An incensed Athiyan becomes personally involved but there is much more to the case than meets the eye. He tempers his attitude with his close friendship with retired judge Sathiadev (Amitabh Bachchan). As events unfold, the issues become more complex, leaving the audience with much food for thought.

Vettaiyan is an outstanding film, but it is not without flaws.

Rajinikanth makes a superhuman attempt in this film but is unable to disguise the fact that he was frail and quite unwell during the making of this film. It shows in the song sequence, his gait and in the poorly choreographed action sequences by stuntmasters Anbariv. Amitabh Bachchan, as expected, exudes a powerful presence throughout the film and shows his mastery of his craft with his subtle changes in facial expressions. Dushara Vijayan is brilliant in her portrayal of Saranya, while Ritika Singh, Manu Warrier and Rohini are also impressive. Kishore makes an unforgettable contribution while Rana Dagubati is adequate.

However, the absolute star of the film is Fahadh Faasil with one of the best written characters in recent times. Apart from his dialogue delivery, the subtle nuances in his expressions are proof of the immeasurable talent he has.

The pace of the first half suffers because of the scenes catering for Rajinikanth’s mass following. However, once the focus changes, the pace is taut and tense. What elevates the film is the level of writing in the script where the unsaid words speak far more than those spoken.

SR Kadhir’s cinematography is another major highlight in the film, impressing with creative shots, experimental lighting and experimental angles.

Anirudh Ravichander is unimpressive in the songs and his background music sounds good, but is far from creative.

This is the kind of films Rajinikanth should concentrate on hereafter. It’s time to ditch the gimmicks and rediscover the classy actor he is.

Vettaiyan scores 8 points out of 10.