Directed by A.R. Murugadoss, the highly anticipated Madharaasi is a psychological action thriller that marks a significant collaboration between two major stars in Tamil cinema, with music by Anirudh. The movie, which had already generated considerable buzz with its trailer, has opened to mixed but generally positive reviews.
“Madharasi” has carried the weight of high expectations, especially in a year that has been underwhelming for big-budget Tamil blockbusters. For actor Sivakarthikeyan, this film is a crucial step in cementing his status as a formidable action hero, especially with the changing landscape of Tamil cinema. The movie is packed with action, heartbreak, and a deeply psychological journey. It follows an ordinary man who, unwillingly drawn into a criminal underworld to save the woman he loves, must confront his own fractured mind.
The performances in the film have been a point of discussion. Fans have particularly praised Sivakarthikeyan for his performance and the action sequences. He effectively uses his “brooding aura” to create a compelling presence, transforming into an almost “uncontrolled animal” in the second half of the film to save his girlfriend. However, some critics feel his star power overshadows the character he plays, making it difficult to see Raghu and not just Sivakarthikeyan on screen.
Vidyut Jammwal returns to Kollywood as the villain, and his role is a treat for audiences. His agility and athleticism are put to good use, and he delivers entertaining moments, even if they are brief. On the other hand, Rukmini Vasanth’s character, despite being central to the plot, feels underdeveloped and lacks depth.
A.R. Murugadoss, who has had a string of recent disappointments, seems to be getting his “groove back” with “Madharaasi.” The movie successfully captures the right flavor and milieu, even though the overall story might not be groundbreaking. While the film has an interesting premise—following a man with a tragic past and a psychological condition—some critics found that the narrative stretches on with tiring sequences. The plot, which involves a gun-smuggling syndicate and an NIA team, is multifaceted, but the fast pace of the second half sometimes sacrifices logical depth. One criticism is that the direction feels almost “mechanical” and “outdated” in some parts, lacking the genuine emotional and logical connections seen in Murugadoss’s earlier, iconic works.
The technical elements of “Madharaasi” received varied feedback. The cinematography and action choreography were generally well-received. The shaky camera work, which could have been a distraction, actually elevates the action sequences. However, the film’s music, composed by Anirudh, did not stand out for some, feeling more like a compilation of his previous scores rather than a fresh soundtrack. The songs were considered mediocre and did not add much to the character development.
Despite some illogical plot points, such as the NIA team’s emotional conclusion being tied to the protagonist’s love rather than their own sacrifices, the film manages to deliver a largely engaging experience. While the narrative sometimes drags on, especially in the first half, it is packed with moments that will keep action lovers on the edge of their seats.