TJ Gnanavel’s latest film, Vettaiyan, starring Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan, attempts to tackle significant social issues but ultimately falls short. Following his acclaimed film Jai Bhim, which focused on the fight for justice, Gnanavel’s new project struggles to effectively combine entertainment with meaningful commentary.
The Premise
Vettaiyan centers around a gripping storyline involving encounter killings—a sensitive issue in India. The film follows Sharanya, a school teacher in Kanyakumari, portrayed by Dushara Vijayan, who uncovers a drug trade near her school. This revelation catches the attention of Kanyakumari’s SP, Athiyan (Rajinikanth), known for his brutal methods. After Athiyan kills the drug lord in what he considers a justifiable encounter, a series of events spirals out of control.
When Sharanya moves to Chennai, tragedy strikes as she becomes a victim of a brutal crime. The police identify a suspect, Guna, who manages to escape custody, prompting a manhunt led by Athiyan. Complicating matters is Judge Satyadev (Amitabh Bachchan), who monitors police conduct and the morality of their actions. This sets the stage for a clash between Athiyan’s violent methods and Satyadev’s quest for justice.
Multiple Themes, Mixed Results
Gnanavel attempts to weave various themes into the narrative, including the dark side of the coaching industry, where students from disadvantaged backgrounds fall into debt traps. While these topics are important, the film struggles to present them cohesively. It feels like too many issues are crammed into the story without a clear focus, which dilutes the impact.
Rajinikanth’s Underutilization
Despite Rajinikanth’s commanding presence, his character feels underdeveloped. Athiyan’s journey as a police officer who grapples with the morality of his actions is never fully explored. Instead, he seems to act without remorse, merely believing he is delivering justice. The film hints at deeper themes of sacrifice and the personal toll of violence, but these moments never materialize in a meaningful way.
The dialogues, a crucial aspect of any Rajinikanth film, also disappoint. While fans expect powerful lines and memorable moments, Vettaiyan lacks the impactful dialogues that characterize his best works. The few punchy lines and monologues do not compensate for the overall lack of depth.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Strong Presence
On a positive note, Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal of Judge Satyadev is a highlight. His character adds gravitas to the film, serving as a moral compass amid the chaos. However, while his performance is commendable, it cannot fully salvage the uneven storytelling.
Supporting Cast and Technical Aspects
The film boasts an impressive supporting cast, including Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, and Manju Warrier, but many of these talented actors are given minimal screen time. Dushara Vijayan shines as Sharanya, effectively capturing her character’s struggle and vulnerability.
From a technical standpoint, Anirudh’s music and background score elevate some key moments in the film. The soundtrack adds an emotional layer, but it’s not enough to mask the narrative’s flaws.
Audience Expectations
Fans flock to Rajinikanth films for a complete package: catchy songs, stylish visuals, humor, and high-octane action. Unfortunately, Vettaiyan is a mixed bag that fails to deliver on several fronts. It doesn’t do justice to Rajinikanth’s legacy or the potential of its director, who previously delivered a powerful social commentary with Jai Bhim.
Vettaiyan is a film with great intentions but poor execution. It raises important questions about justice and morality, yet the narrative feels disjointed and predictable. While Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan bring star power to the project, their talents are not fully realized in a story that needed more depth and coherence. Fans may leave the theater feeling underwhelmed, hoping for a more engaging experience that truly honors the legacy of these iconic actors.
