Raayan (2024) - "Dhanush's violent sambhavam"

Directed by: Dhanush

Written by: Dhanush
Produced by: Kalanithi Maran
Starring:

• Dhanush
• S. J. Suryah
• Sundeep Kishan
• Kalidas Jayaram
• Selvaraghavan
• Prakash Raj
• Dushara Vijayan
• Aparna Balamurali
• Varalaxmi Sarathkumar
  Cinematography: Om Prakash
  Edited by: Prasanna GK
  Music by: A. R. Rahman
  Production Company: Sun Pictures
  Release Date: 26 July 2024
  Running Time: 145 minutes
  Country: India
  Language: Tamil

Plot:

Set in the 1990s, "Raayan" follows Kathavaraayan "Raayan" (Dhanush), the eldest of four siblings. After their parents disappear, Raayan takes on the responsibility of raising his siblings. Moving from their hometown to North Chennai, he becomes a fast-food hotel owner. His siblings have their own paths: Manickam is a college student, while Muthu is a hot-headed alcoholic involved with Mekhala. Muthu's actions lead to a deadly conflict, and the family gets entangled in a web of gang rivalry and revenge. The film explores whether they can survive these trials or succumb to their raw emotions.

Performances:

• Dhanush (Kathavaraayan "Raayan"): Dhanush delivers a powerful performance, embodying a character burdened with immense responsibility and emotional depth.
• Dushara Vijayan (Durga): Dushara is impressive as Durga, leaving a lasting impression with her portrayal.
• Sundeep Kishan (Muthuvelraayan "Muthu"): Sundeep gives a mixed yet strong performance, living up to the complexities of his character.
• Kalidas Jayaram (Manickavelraayan "Manickam"): Kalidas plays a crucial role, tying the story together with a solid performance.
• Aparna Balamurali (Mekhala): Aparna is phenomenal, especially in her dance sequences, which are graceful and captivating.
• S. J. Suryah (Sethuraman "Sethu"): S. J. Suryah is exceptional, proving his mettle as a great performer.
• Selvaraghavan (Sekhar): Selvaraghavan convincingly portrays the big brother figure, adding depth to the family dynamic.
• Varalaxmi Sarathkumar: Varalaxmi's notable scene where she eats while S. J. Suryah is worried is noteworthy.
• Prakash Raj (Sargunam): While his character could have been better utilized, Prakash Raj delivers a solid performance.

Technicians:

• Direction: Dhanush excels in his directorial role, drawing out stellar performances from the cast.
• Cinematography: Om Prakash's work is brilliant, enhancing the film's visual appeal.
• Music: A. R. Rahman's music elevates the film, adding emotional and dramatic depth to every scene.
• Art Department: The set design is impressive, making the film's setting realistic and immersive.
• Fights: Peter Hein's choreography is top-notch, adding to the film's intense and gripping nature.
• Production: The production values are high, with no compromises in any aspect.

Strengths:

• Dhanush's dual role as actor and director
• Dushara Vijayan's performance
• Sundeep Kishan's portrayal of Muthu
• Kalidas Jayaram's cohesive performance
• A. R. Rahman's music
• Om Prakash's cinematography
• Well-executed fight sequences

Weaknesses:

• The first half drags, affecting the film's pacing.
• The emotional connection between the siblings could have been portrayed better.
• Prakash Raj's character is underutilized.

My Personal Take:

"Raayan" is a film that packs intense violence and raw performances. If you can handle the gritty content, it's worth watching for its stellar acting, exceptional music, and captivating visuals. However, the lack of deeper emotional bonding between the siblings is a missed opportunity. Despite this, the film stands out for its strong direction and performances, particularly by Dhanush and Dushara Vijayan. Raayan is mediocre film.

Rating: 2.5/5