Vikram’s “Thangalaan ” REVIEW

Story:
Chiyaan Vikram’s “Thangalaan” is set in 1850 CE, in Veppur village, North Arcot. Thangalaan, the leader of a tribal group, is recruited by the British to search for gold in his village. His task angers the locals, led by Aarathi (Malavika Mohanan), leading to a fierce conflict between Thangalaan’s tribe and Aarathi’s forces. The film explores this clash against the backdrop of British colonial rule and the ensuing struggle for power and survival.

Pros:
Director Pa Ranjith’s *Thangalaan* impresses with its intricate setup and rich narrative depth. The film is set in 1850 CE in Veppur village, North Arcot, where Thangalaan, played by Vikram, leads a tribal group hired by the British to search for gold. This task incites the ire of the local community, led by Aarathi (Malavika Mohanan), sparking a profound conflict that delves into themes of suppression, Buddhism, and gender discrimination. Ranjith’s storytelling shines through his meticulous choice of cast and evocative backdrop, reflecting his deep commitment to exploring complex issues. Vikram delivers a standout performance in the title role, showcasing an impressive transformation that includes a distinctive look, compelling body language, and authentic dialogue delivery. His portrayal anchors the film, bringing a raw intensity that captivates the audience.

Malavika Mohanan emerges as a significant surprise, deviating from her usual glamorous roles to present a powerful and intense performance. Her dynamic scenes with Vikram are particularly notable, highlighting her range and depth as an actress. Parvathy Thiruvothu also makes a notable contribution, adding elegance to her role. The film’s production design is another highlight, with meticulous attention to historical accuracy and detail, creating an immersive experience. The fight sequences are realistic and well-executed, enhancing the film’s authenticity. Overall, *Thangalaan* stands out for its strong performances, thought-provoking themes, and impressive production values, making it a compelling cinematic experience.

Cons:
While “Thangalaan” showcases Pa Ranjith’s signature depth and storytelling flair, it does have its drawbacks. The film’s synchronization with sound is a notable issue, making the Telugu dubbing feel somewhat awkward. This misalignment requires viewers to adjust to the pacing of the dialogue, which can detract from the overall experience. One significant shortcoming is the VFX, which is notably subpar and often irritating. Given Ranjith’s reputation for technical prowess and realistic filmmaking, the lackluster graphics are disappointing and undermine the film’s immersive potential. This failure in visual effects contrasts sharply with the otherwise high production values, creating a jarring inconsistency.

The film blends art cinema with a commercial format, which might not resonate with hardcore Telugu cinema fans. The thematic focus on oppression, while impactful, becomes repetitive and predictable as the story progresses. Additionally, Malavika Mohanan’s character and her tribal community could have been better developed. Their introduction and subsequent involvement feel underwhelming, missing the opportunity for a deeper connection with the audience. In summary, “Thangalaan” is ambitious and thought-provoking but falters in areas like VFX and character development, which might impact its appeal to a broader audience.

Technical Aspects:
“Thangalaan” impresses with its period detail, from stunning camerawork to exceptional production design, costume, and makeup. However, the film’s VFX is subpar, undermining its visual appeal, and the second half suffers from dull editing. The screenplay could benefit from more refinement to enhance the viewing experience. Director Pa Ranjith, known for his boundary-pushing narratives, continues to deliver with a compelling story and solid performances. Vikram and Malavika Mohanan shine in their roles, adding depth to the film. Yet, Ranjith’s approach demands patience and a readiness for serious, non-entertainment-focused scenes. While “Thangalaan” excels in its artistic and technical aspects, it requires viewers to appreciate its more nuanced, less conventional storytelling.

Verdict:
“Thangalaan” features Vikram in a compelling new role and highlights Malavika Mohanan as a surprising standout in a striking new avatar. While the film impresses with its artistic presentation and performances, its pacing is slow, and its subject matter caters more to fans of art and serious cinema rather than mainstream entertainment. The movie’s unique blend of commercial format with deep, serious themes may appeal to viewers with a taste for nuanced storytelling.

#Rating: 3/5

Director: Pa. Ranjith
Starring: VPasupathy, Malavika Mohanan, Parvathy Thiruvothu, and Vikram
Music Director: G.V. Prakash Kumar
Cinematographer: Kishor Kumar
Editor: Selva Rk
Producers: K.E. Gnanavelraja, Neha Gnanavelraja