Short Verdict:
“A revenge thriller that falters with predictability but still packs enough punch to keep the audience engaged.”
Synopsis:
Thodarum opens with a premise that recalls the suspense-driven narrative of Drishyam, with a twist. The protagonist, played by Mohanlal, is introduced as a former stuntman-turned-private taxi driver who drives a black Ambassador, treating the car like a family member. His peaceful life shatters when his son goes missing, and his car is seized by the police for allegedly transporting drugs. As the plot progresses, Mohanlal uncovers that the police officers have manipulated him into being a pawn in a murder case involving his son. What follows is a revenge-fueled pursuit of justice, with the protagonist determined to avenge his son’s death and deliver his own form of verdict.
Performances:
Mohanlal shines in his portrayal of the grieving father turned avenger, showcasing more brawn than brains, fitting the role of a man of action rather than a mastermind. His performance drives the film forward, but his character could have benefitted from more depth. Bharathiraja, a veteran in the industry, feels underutilized, with his potential largely untapped in a rather limited role.
Strengths:
Mohanlal’s Screen Presence: The actor’s physicality suits the character well, giving a raw edge to the film’s revenge theme.
Suspense Elements: Though somewhat predictable, the suspense around the protagonist’s discovery of his son’s fate keeps the audience engaged.
Cinematography: Shaji Kumar’s cinematography deserves a mention for its sharp visuals, creating an atmospheric tone that complements the action.
Box Office Potential: Despite its shortcomings, the film has enough action and thrill to appeal to commercial moviegoers, ensuring its box office success.
Weaknesses:
Predictability: The film leans heavily into a formulaic structure, with the revenge plot becoming too predictable and monotonous over time.
Underutilization of Bharathiraja: The veteran actor is relegated to a minimal role, making his presence feel wasted.
Over-reliance on Music References: The unnecessary nods to Ilaiyaraaja and his songs feel out of place and detract from the film’s pacing and mood.
Direction & Writing:
The direction tries to balance action and suspense but struggles to maintain intrigue as the story progresses. The screenplay veers into predictable territory, with the revenge theme taking center stage, leaving little room for surprises. While the intention to keep suspense elements under wraps is clear, the execution falters in sustaining momentum. The inclusion of excessive references to Ilaiyaraaja’s music is a curious choice, detracting from the otherwise serious tone of the film.
Final Thoughts:
Thodarum is a revenge thriller that showcases Mohanlal’s formidable presence in an action-driven role. The film starts strong with a promising premise, but its predictable storyline and missed opportunities for character development leave it feeling more formulaic than groundbreaking. However, the film’s strong action sequences, suspense elements, and solid performances make it an engaging watch for fans of the genre.
