Review: Vettaiyan - Mishandled Hunt

 

Movie: Vettaiyan: The Hunter
Rating: 2.5/5

Cast: Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Dushara Vijayan, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Kishore, Rao Ramesh, Abhirami and Others

Director: TJ Gnanavel

Produced By: Lyca Productions

Release Date: October 10, 2024

Story:

Athiyan (Rajinikanth), an encounter specialist, holds a firm belief in administering justice, even when he has to cross the ethical lines. Athiyan's life changes dramatically when an encounter goes awry, prompting him to re-examine his own case. The rest of the story focuses on the journey of Athiyan who does not compromise in identifying the culprit. 

Performances:

Rajinikanth did complete justice to his character. However, his characterization could have been much stronger. Amitabh Bachchan plays a dignified yet underwhelming character, while Fahadh Faasil provides some useful laughs. Rana Daggubati was fine as a corporate big shot while Dushara Vijayan made her presence felt. Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Kishore, Rao Ramesh, Abhirami and others were okay. 

What worked for the film:

The film's principal message is superb, and it gains more importance when it is done with a star like Rajini. Both in. first and second half, the director incorporated a few stylish moments of superstar. The plot twist at the interval raises expectations for a more interesting and dramatic continuation. A significant portion of the investigation process works well in the second half.

What did not work for the film:

Though his intention is good, director TJ Gnanavel could not weave a proper and perfect screenplay around the main storyline. All the crucial characters in the film, including Rajini and Big B, do not provide the demanded powerful impact and just stay there with some good moments here and there. The major issue is: One cannot connect emotionally to the fight of the lead role. For example, after an unfortunate incident, Rajini's character experiences a change of heart and takes charge of the investigation to show that his team was mistaken. This realization takes place instantly and without the required establishment. The climax of the film is also stretched.

Vettaiyan Review and Verdict:

Vettaiyan's director TJ Gnanavel seeks to communicate a crucial message using familiar tropes, yet the final result remains unclear. While the narrative is relevant, the film only succeeds in making an impact in a few places. Neither Rajinikanth nor the other huge ensemble cast, including Amitabh Bachchan, get solid characters.