Madharaasi Movie Review
Movie Name: Madharaasi
Release Date: September 5, 2025
Starring: Sivakarthikeyan, Rukmini Vasanth, Vidyut Jammwal, Biju Menon, Vikranth, Shabeer Kallarakkal
Director: A.R. Murugadoss
Producer: N. Srilakshmi Prasad
Music Director: Anirudh Ravichander
Cinematographer: Sudeep Elamon
Editor: A. Sreekar Prasad
Story:
Virat (Vidyut Jammwal) and Chirag (Shabeer Kallarakkal) join hands with a deadly syndicate to spread gun culture in Tamil Nadu. Premnath (Biju Menon), head of the NIA, tries to curb them but fails. At this juncture, he crosses paths with Raghu Ram (Sivakarthikeyan), a man on the verge of suicide, and ropes him into his mission. Who is Raghu Ram? Why does he want to end his life? How is Malathy (Rukmini Vasanth) linked to him? And does Premnath succeed in his plan? That forms the core of Madharaasi.
Plus Points:
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A.R. Murugadoss gives the protagonist an intriguing characterization, and Sivakarthikeyan makes full use of it with a lively, engaging performance.
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His knack for generating humor even in tense situations works well, and his chemistry with Biju Menon provides some refreshing moments.
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Rukmini Vasanth delivers a neat act, while the backstory in the first half adds weight to the hero’s behavior.
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Action sequences are slickly choreographed and look visually grand on the big screen.
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The social message about the dangers of gun culture is appreciable.
Minus Points:
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Despite a promising setup, the screenplay lacks grip and freshness. The narrative often feels repetitive and predictable.
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Several sequences remind viewers of Ghajini and Thuppakki, but without the same emotional or thrilling impact.
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Action blocks, though stylish, lack proper buildup and end up feeling hollow.
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The second half drags, with redundant scenes that slow the momentum.
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Vidyut Jammwal’s villain role is routine and underdeveloped.
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The love story fails to spark, while excessive songs in the first half test patience.
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The title Madharaasi doesn’t get a strong justification within the story.
Technical Aspects:
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Music: Anirudh Ravichander’s songs and background score are surprisingly underwhelming, lacking the usual punch.
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Cinematography: Sudeep Elamon impresses with sleek visuals, especially during action set pieces.
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Editing: A. Sreekar Prasad’s work falls short, with many scenes begging for tighter trimming.
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On the whole, Murugadoss’s attention to the protagonist’s arc works, but the weak screenplay drags the film down.
Verdict:
Madharaasi is a mixed bag. Sivakarthikeyan’s spirited performance, a few fun moments, and sleek action sequences hold the film together, but the predictable screenplay, dragging second half, and lack of strong emotional depth limit its impact.
Overall, Madharaasi ends up as a passable action entertainer that works in parts but falls short of delivering a gripping experience.
Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)
