Maharaja

Despite being critical of Vijay Sethupathi's filmography in the past (including Mugizh, 2021), I can confidently say Maharaja strikes a chord of undeniable brillaince for his 50th golden jubilee offering.

There's so much to unpack in this film, I'm still trying to wrap my head around everything, but major props to Sethupathi. He deserves a standing ovation for embodying the director's vision. The complexities, the writing is a no nonsense game which gets it right with a brilliant climax that lingers long after the credits roll. The first half features familiar faces from the director's debut, with lighthearted moments woven into the theft investigation, the police station chaos, and the antics of "Kurangu Bommai," the burglar sidekick. Character introductions are swift, establishing VJS's family life, daughter, PT teacher role, the city's robbery, and the presence of Anurag Kashyap (whose dubbing might raise an eyebrow, but his performance shines in the climactic construction site sequence). For the sake of avoiding spoilers, I'll refrain from detailing his henchman's significance.

Ajanessh Loknath, a powerhouse known for his work in Kannada and Telugu cinema is the perfect musical accompaniment for this movie.

Director Nithilan Swaminathan, who stunned audiences with his debut "Kurangu Bommai," showcases his mastery of non-linear storytelling, solidifying him as a rising force in Tamil cinema. His mastery of non-linear storytelling is brilliant. He's on track to be a big name in Tamil cinema.

There's just so much to this movie, but for now, I gotta recommend it if you're looking for something deeper than just a masala popcorn flick. Sure, some might compare the climax to stuff like Oldboy or Irrata, or even Villeneuve's Incendies (2010), but don't let that stop you. Ignore the overzealous puluthis who act like they've seen it all - this is one you don't want to miss.

Bonus recommendation! Rishab Shetty has produced a movie titled Shivamma which has released today, just came out, and if you're into indie films, you should check it out. Support the indies!

It has been a long time since I have witnessed a script that utilizes the technique of "subversion" so tactfully. The initial half cleverly diverges into various paths with not just one, but three distinct plotlines running parallel to each other.

Even though Initially you might find yourself quite confused, struggling to comprehend the purpose of it all.

However, rest assured, all your confusion will be dissipated and your queries will be addressed at appropriate times, which specifically transpires in the latter portion of the second half.

And trust me, the final act will astonish you and leave you profoundly moved.

Now I will refrain from revealing anything more to avoid any inadvertent spoilers, though I will say this; if you are a seasoned viewer, well-versed in "foreign cinema", you might be able to anticipate the concluding twist from afar.

On the contrary, if you are fresh to this particular genre or lack exposure to "World Cinema," brace yourself for an unforgettable revelation!

P. S. Kashyap maybe going through tough times as a 'director', but as an 'actor' he continues to evolve with each character he commits himself to. He nailed his role here, especially in the last ten minutes, that will certainly leave a mark!

A must watch movie. What an acting from Vijay Sethupathy. The story, screenplay and the overall making is just outstanding. All the characters were perfectly apt for their respective roles. Anuarag Kashyap also deserves a huge applause for his performance.

The story is well written and the screenplay was also solid. I don't share the same opinion about the climax because a similar theme have been used in movies all around the world and recently there was a movie from Mollywood which had a similar theme in the ending. I'm not saying the climax was boring, it was great, but it didn't have much impact for me. That doesn't mean it won't work for everyone. Do give it a go. Overall the move is pure class!

Absolute MASTERPIECE from K-wood in2024.

The screenplay of the film stands unique and was mind-blowing.

VJS at his best.

Performance of Anurag and Natty, SingamPuli was also notable.

Music and Background score was Good, Ajeesh done a very good job.

Nithilan Saminathan is gonna be the next big thing in kollywood🤞🏻 Nithilan's guts to blend humor in this serious subject is just amazing.

U dont even know whats gonna happen next. The Interval ends with a high, leaving many questions within u. The pre-climax and the climax will answer u.

Missing this film in theatres is the worst thing u can ever do this year.

So Go watch Maharaja NOW!

Nicely crafted movie with exceptional performances by Vijay Sethupathi and Anurag Kashyap. Engaging from the first scene itself. Mamta Mohandas has been underutilised. Abirami is impressive though for a short time. Casting was excellent.

I need to watch it again, as I still have one question that was unanswered. Watching in a theatre was great because of a very appropriate background score. It's cinematic brilliance at its best.

This is one movie where gore needed to be allowed to drive home a certain point (unlike animal). Strikes a very deep chord as you think hard, long after the movie is over.