Vettaiyan(2024) - "Strong core story, but falls short with weak execution and a lacking narrative."


 

  • Directed by: T.J. Gnanavel
  • Starring by: Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, Abhirami
  • Genres: Action, Drama
  • Language: Telugu

Plot Overview:

Vettaiyan revolves around Athiyan (Rajinikanth), an encounter specialist who believes in dispensing justice at any cost, even if it means crossing moral boundaries. His life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Sharanya (Manju Warrier), a fearless school teacher who fights against injustice. After Sharanya is murdered under mysterious circumstances, Athiyan sets out on a path of vengeance and self-discovery. He faces a web of lies and corruption, seeking answers to who killed Sharanya and how he might have inadvertently played a part in an innocent's death. As Athiyan’s investigation unfolds, the role of Nataraj (Rana Daggubati) becomes central to the plot.


Performances:

  • Rajinikanth: Rajinikanth delivers his usual charm, but age shows in his performance, making it less dynamic compared to his previous roles. While he carries the film, there isn’t much beyond his signature style.
  • Amitabh Bachchan: His role is limited, but whenever he's on screen, he makes a notable impact, staying true to the essence of his character.
  • Fahadh Faasil: Fahadh shines in his role, bringing ease to his performance.
  • Rana Daggubati: As the main antagonist, Rana plays what feels like more of a cameo. Despite his villainous role, his character lacks strong writing, making it less impactful than expected.
  • Manju Warrier: She plays her part well
  • Dushara Vijayan: Dushara is good in her role and her presence as the brave school teacher adds emotional weight. 
  • Rithika: Rithika’s character being particularly underutilized. It's a missed opportunity to give them more significant moments in the film.

Technical Aspects:

  • Direction: T.J. Gnanavel disappoints with this outing, especially coming off the success of Jai Bhim. Despite a stellar star cast, the film falters in execution, with weak character development and pacing issues.
  • Music & BGM: Anirudh’s music is only effective at certain points but doesn’t elevate the film as much as expected.
  • Cinematography: The visuals are one of the strengths of the film, capturing the mood and intensity where needed.
  • Production Values: Strong production values are evident, but they aren’t enough to compensate for the weak narrative.

Strengths:

  • Story: The central plot has potential with its themes of justice, vengeance, and corruption.
  • Performances: Rajinikanth’s presence, along with strong performances from Fahadh and Amitabh in their limited roles, anchors the film.
  • First Half: The first half is engaging and sets up the story well.

Weaknesses:

  • Narration: The film suffers from weak narrative execution, especially in the second half.
  • Second Half & Climax: The momentum dips significantly, and the climax feels rushed and underwhelming.
  • Character Writing: The supporting cast and even the antagonist’s role are not well-developed, which weakens the overall impact of the story.

My Personal Take On Cinema:

Vettaiyan has a strong storyline but lacks proper execution. Director T.J. Gnanavel, after the success of Jai Bhim, fails to replicate the magic here, despite working with a high-profile cast. Rajinikanth, following his massive hit Jailer, does not have a script that brings out his full potential. The supporting characters, especially the antagonist, are underwritten, which becomes a significant flaw. Overall, the film feels like a missed opportunity.


Rating: 

2.5/5

Comments

Popular Posts