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Vettaiyan, the latest action-packed crime drama featuring the legendary Rajinikanth, has finally hit theaters. While the film delivers on its promise of high-octane action and captivating performances, it struggles to maintain a consistent level of engagement throughout. The story revolves around Athiyan (Rajinikanth), an encounter specialist driven by his own brand of justice, even if it means bending the rules. His world is turned upside down when he meets Sharanya (Dushara Vijayan), a courageous school teacher who becomes tragically embroiled in a case that ultimately leads to her death. Athiyan finds himself thrust into a labyrinth of questions, determined to uncover the truth behind her murder and expose the real culprit.
The film's strengths lie primarily in its star power and the electrifying action sequences. Rajinikanth's portrayal of Athiyan is captivating, showcasing his signature charisma and effortless coolness. The action sequences, expertly choreographed and executed, are thrilling and visually impressive. The contrast between Athiyan's approach to justice and the more traditional methods employed by Amitabh Bachchan's character creates compelling dynamic. Bachchan's portrayal is nuanced and adds a layer of gravitas to the narrative. The chemistry between Rajinikanth and Rana Daggubati, who plays Nataraj, is palpable, particularly in the second half of the film as Nataraj's character arc unfolds. Supporting performances from Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Abhirami, Dushara Vijayan, Rohini, and Rao Ramesh contribute significantly to the overall depth of the story.
However, the film suffers from pacing issues. The serious tone of the narrative sometimes overwhelms the emotional depth, leading to stretches of the story that feel drawn out. The second half could benefit from tightening to maintain the intensity established in the first half. While the investigation scenes are well-acted, they occasionally drag, and the film lacks the same urgency in its second act. Despite the presence of engaging characters, the conflict for Rana Daggubati's character could have been more compelling and robust, adding greater emotional stakes to the film. On a positive note, Anirudh Ravichander's background score is particularly effective, enhancing the tension during action sequences. The cinematography by S.R. Kathir beautifully captures the essence of the action, while the editing is competent, though a tighter second half would have improved the film's overall flow.
Source: Vettaiyan Telugu Movie Review, Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan