Vettaiyan is an engaging watch that neither disappoints Rajni fans nor satisfies them entirely.
T. J. Gnanavel’s Vettaiyan is your Marvel superhero who gives up his ‘superhero’ powers and becomes a law-abiding cop to battle his opponents within a judicial framework. The guilt-ridden hunter here gives up hunting.
After Jai Bhim on custodial torture, Gnanavel gets Superstar Rajnikanth to deliver his message on encounter killing—”Any attempt to deliver justice outside the system can result in injustice.” It’s a crucial message. Encounter killing as a tool in the wrong hands or as an instant justice without thorough investigation can claim innocent lives.
Gnanavel also touches upon the commercialization of entrance coaching and notions plaguing the underprivileged. The director intertwines these messages into a neat plot enacted by a fine star cast. Dushara Vijayan as a teacher, who gets raped and murdered, speaks the mind of her character. That’s the only character you connect with emotionally.
Amitabh Bachchan, with his fabulous screen presence, stands rock solid as a human rights mascot.
Fahad Faasil as “Battery” delivers an effortless performance and makes you laugh. No wonder he garnered such appreciation from Rajni during the film’s music launch.
Ritika Singh is convincing in her cop role and gets to throw a couple of punches. However, the film doesn’t explore the potential of a seasoned actor like Manju Warrier and Rana Daggubati.
Cinematographer SR Kathir offers a visually striking film. Smart editing by Philomin Raj keeps the narrative moving before you question its logical flaws. Anirudh Ravichander, with his Music and BGM, sets the tone for Vettaiyan, elevating scenes involving the Superstar. Similar: Did Kamal Haasan’s film Indian 2′ miss AR Rahman’s music?
Gnanavel’s Vettaiyan is a content-driven film that tries to live up to the expectations of Rajni fans. However, it leaves you wanting more electrifying scenes, emotionally charged moments, and edge-of-the-seat actions, which you typically expect from Superstar Rajnikanth’s films.
Movie Review New Storys Rating: 3.5 / 5