1st half: Average
The film is about a tribal gang where Vikram and his team take the lead. It opens with a family scene set in a remote, unfamiliar land, making it challenging to adjust to the surroundings, which feel like an entirely different world. The flashback scenes featuring an older Vikram and Malavika Mohanan set the stage for the film but falter when the narrative returns to the present, bogged down by dragged and boring sequences.
Vikram and his gang, joined by foreigners, embark on an adventure into the deep roots of the forest in search of something valuable. The journey evokes vibes of “Yuganiki Okkadu,” with visual effects and Vikram’s mysterious characterization setting the tone. However, the film drags in parts. The interval scene is good, and the prior scenes at the Elephant Mountain location are promising. Still, the plot remains unclear, leaving viewers in suspense but also confused. The film is a mixed bag—if you’re not drawn in within the first 30 minutes, be warned, as the rest may be a tough watch.
2nd half: Bad
Except for the last 20 minutes of the film, which are filled with stunning visuals and exceptional performances from Vikram, Malavika Mohanan, and Pasupathy, the rest is an absolute mess. One has to wonder how anyone could sit through the chaotic and disjointed screenplay—it certainly requires a lot of patience, and you’d need to be well-prepared for the experience.
It’s like having a good dessert after the starters and main course have already spoiled your appetite.
Thangalaan Movie Final Review
“Chaos awaits, though there are sparks of potential”
The combination scenes between Vikram and Malavika Mohanan in the first half, which last for a solid 20 minutes or so, are engaging. However, the entire latter half of the film drags out this plotline by introducing numerous side characters, leading to a confusing and unpleasant experience.
While the stunning visuals and noteworthy performances during the film’s main tracks, particularly at the interval and climax, are commendable, the rest of the film seems designed to leave the audience in a state of chaos.
Does the film have a strong plot? Certainly, it does. There’s no denying that. However, director PA Ranjit appears to have focused more on dragging scenes to the point of exhaustion, making us regret buying tickets for the film.
We can certainly appreciate Vikram for choosing out-of-the-box subjects, but in the name of experimental storytelling, the film turns into an absolute mess, with only a couple of good scenes to redeem it. It’s something that many viewers might not be prepared for.
Overall Verdict: It’s better to wait for the OTT release or leave after the first half is over.
