TJ Gnanavel, known for his much talked about work Jai Bhim, returns with Vettaiyan, a powerful amalgamation of mass appeal and social commentary. Let’s check what the movie, which features a pan Indian ensemble cast, is all about and how successful is Gnanavel’s first mass project?
Rajinikanth leads as SP Athiyan, a relentless enforcer dishing out swift justice, but the film soon pivots when Amitabh Bachchan’s character, a seasoned legal expert, questions the morality of Athiyan’s actions. This brings the ethical dilemma of instant justice into focus, especially with India’s ongoing debate around “encounter killings” and “bulldozer justice.”
The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the exploitation of students by corporate entities, particularly online education platforms.
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Set against Tamil Nadu’s backdrop of educational disparity and the NEET debate, Vettaiyan critiques how the system benefits the wealthy while marginalising the poor.
Rajinikanth’s evolution from an enforcer to a man questioning systemic issues is compelling, with Fahadh Faasil’s witty performance adding depth to the narrative.
The cast, including Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Dushara Vijayan, Kishore, Abhirami and others, delivers performances that elevate the film’s emotional weight.
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While the movie features mass film tropes, it never loses sight of its core message—justice must be tempered with humanity.
With visually stunning cinematography by SR Kathir and a rousing score by Anirudh, Vettaiyan successfully balances entertainment with a strong societal message, urging viewers to reconsider the meaning of justice and faultlines in the education system.
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Gnanavel’s direction ensures the film appeals to both Rajinikanth’s fanbase and those seeking a deeper narrative. Vettaiyan is not just a film about retribution; it’s a conversation on fairness, morality, and the challenges faced by society today.
