Overview:
Thangalaan, directed by Pa Ranjith, ventures into the realm of historical drama, set against the backdrop of 1850 in Veppur village. It tells the tale of Thangalaan (played by Vikram), a farmhand who, after rising to become a landowner, faces ruin and exploitation by the local zamindar and the British. The narrative unfolds as Thangalaan battles against oppressive forces and struggles for justice.
Story and Direction:
Pa Ranjith’s Thangalaan is a gripping saga of struggle and resistance. Unlike his previous work, Sarpetta Parambarai, where his storytelling was compelling and unyielding, this film shows a shift. The narrative is solid but sometimes lacks the punch that made his earlier works stand out. The focus on the story and its messages is clear, but the execution is less forceful, and the film sometimes meanders.
Performances:
The performances in Thangalaan are the film’s standout aspect. Vikram delivers a powerhouse performance as Thangalaan. His transformation into the character is so immersive that it’s easy to forget you’re watching Vikram. The dedication and authenticity he brings are extraordinary, making his portrayal of Thangalaan deeply impactful.
Malavika Mohanan, playing Aarathi, also leaves a strong impression. Her role, marked by intense action sequences, is both captivating and impressive. Parvathi’s portrayal of Gangamma is solid, though it feels somewhat expected given her acting history.
Pasupathi and Daniel Caltagirone also contribute significantly, with Pasupathi embodying a devout Vishnu devotee seeking acceptance and Caltagirone as a Britisher in search of gold. Their performances add depth to the film.
Technical Aspects:
The film excels in technical execution. G.V. Prakash’s music and background score are vital to setting the tone and enhancing the mood. The art direction by SS Murthi deserves praise for its authenticity, vividly depicting the era and environment. The action sequences, choreographed by Stunner Sam, are intense and brutal, adding a raw edge to the film.
Drawbacks:
Despite its strengths, Thangalaan has notable drawbacks. The character of Aarathi introduces elements of fantasy that disrupt the story’s credibility. Additionally, some dialogues, particularly in the film’s early parts, are delivered in a dialect that is hard to understand, detracting from the overall experience. The storytelling approach sometimes lacks focus, making Ranjith’s message feel less convincing.
Short Verdict:
Thangalaan is a visually stunning and well-acted film that highlights Pa Ranjith’s storytelling prowess but falters in narrative focus and dialogue clarity.
Quote:
“A masterpiece in acting and visual craft, Thangalaan struggles with narrative coherence but still delivers a powerful cinematic experience.”
Conclusion:
Thangalaan is a noteworthy film, celebrated for its exceptional performances and technical execution. While it may not hit the high marks set by Ranjith’s previous works, it remains a significant cinematic effort with its own merits and challenges.
