Retro – When Vengeance Meets Romance in a Stylish Action Drama
A Stylish Throwback with Emotional Depth
Karthik Subbaraj’s Retro lives up to its title not just in its time setting, but also in its stylish storytelling and vintage action flair. Set in the gritty 1960s landscape of Tuticorin, the film blends the charm of retro filmmaking with the grit of modern storytelling, bringing together action, emotion, and a tinge of romance in a well-packaged cinematic experience.
The Rise of Irumbukai Pari
At the heart of Retro is Pari, played by Suriya with gravitas and intensity. After witnessing his father’s gruesome murder as a child, Pari is emotionally paralyzed—unable to laugh or even smile. Taken in by the wife of a local gangster (Joju George), he’s raised amidst violence but is shaped by a promise: to never abandon his adopted father.
Suriya’s portrayal of the stone-faced, brooding Pari—transformed into the feared ‘Irumbukai Pari’—is powerful and layered. He brings not just physical strength but inner vulnerability to the character, making Pari compelling to watch.
Rukmini – The Heart of the Story
Pooja Hegde as Rukmini delivers one of her most memorable performances yet. As a veterinary doctor and Pari’s childhood companion, she becomes the emotional compass of the film. Her unwavering love and her constant attempts to draw out the softer side of Pari add warmth to the otherwise violent narrative. She’s not just a love interest but a strong, persuasive character who plays a pivotal role in the story’s turning point.
The Wedding That Turns Crimson
The emotional peak of the film comes on the day of Pari and Rukmini’s wedding. What begins as a hopeful union soon spirals into chaos when Pari’s gangster father crashes the event—not with blessings but with threats. The scene explodes into a blood-soaked battle, showcasing the film’s action prowess and setting the stage for the film’s intense final act.
Strong Supporting Cast and Characters
Joju George as the menacing gang leader delivers an effortlessly intimidating performance. He balances charisma and cruelty in equal measure. Jayaram offers comic relief in the form of a doctor experimenting with laughter therapy, adding lightness to the otherwise intense tone of the film.
Technical Excellence
Two technicians stand out in Retro:
Shreyaas Krishna’s cinematography is visually arresting, capturing the mood of the 60s with earthy tones and vibrant contrast.
Kecha Khamphakdee’s stunt choreography is breathtaking, especially in the stylized action sequences that elevate the film into a grand visual spectacle.
Verdict
Karthik Subbaraj’s Retro is a potent mix of style and substance. With Suriya leading the charge and Pooja Hegde grounding the narrative with grace, the film strikes a balance between bloodshed and beauty. For fans of action dramas with emotional stakes, Retro is a rewarding watch.
Short Verdict Quote:
“Retro is a bloody symphony of vengeance and love, wrapped in vintage charm and powered by stellar performances.”
RETRO
Directed By Karthik Subbaraj
Production – 2D Entertainment & Stone Bench
Producers – Jyotika – Suriya
Cast
Suriya, Pooja Hegde, Jayaram, Joju George, Nassar, Prakash Raj, Vidhu, Karunakaran.
Technical crew
Story screenplay dialogue
Karthik Subbaraj
Music composer : Santhosh Narayanan
Cinematographer : Shreyaas Krishna
Editor : Shafique Mohamed Ali
Lyrics : Vivek, Arunraja Kamaraj & 808Krshna
STUNT : Kecha Khamphakdee
DANCE : Sherif M
Custome Designer: Praveen Raja
Costumer: Subier
Art : Jacki – Mayapandi
Co Director : Srinivasan E
DI : Mango Post
VFX : Lorven Studios
Colourist : Suresh Ravi
Mix : Suren G
Chief Associate Editor : Nithin Jp
Associate Editor: Keshav B Raj
Assistant Editor : Vaishnav D
Publicity designer : Tuney John
Stills : Dinesh M
TN Release : Sakthi Film Factory
PRO : Yuvaraj – Sathish (S2)
Subtitle by : Sajith
Audio label : T Series
