Madharaasi - Review

Director AR Murugadoss returns with Madharaasi, the film promises high-octane action and a socially relevant narrative. Does it deliver ? Let’s dive in.

The story follows Virat (Vidyut Jammwal) and his ally Chirag (Shabeer Kallarakkal), who conspire with a syndicate to introduce gun culture in Tamil Nadu. NIA officer Premnath (Biju Menon) is tasked with thwarting their plans but faces setbacks. Enter Raghu Ram (Sivakarthikeyan), a man teetering on the edge of despair, whom Premnath recruits for his mission. Who is Raghu Ram? Why is he suicidal? How does Malathy (Rukmini Vasanth) fit into his story? And does Premnath’s gamble pay off? These questions drive the narrative of Madharaasi.

AR Murugadoss crafts an intriguing protagonist in Raghu Ram, and Sivakarthikeyan delivers a standout performance, effortlessly blending vulnerability, humor, and intensity. His ability to inject levity into tense moments—especially in scenes with Biju Menon—is a highlight, showcasing his versatility. The first half benefits from a compelling backstory that justifies Raghu’s quirks, keeping viewers invested. Rukmini Vasanth delivers a solid performance, though her role feels underexplored.  

The action sequences, choreographed with precision, are visually striking and cater to thrill-seekers. Murugadoss weaves in a timely message about the dangers of gun culture, which adds depth to the narrative. Sudeep Elamo’s cinematography shines, with dynamic camera work elevating the action blocks. The chemistry between Sivakarthikeyan and Biju Menon also adds a layer of charm to the film.

Despite a promising premise, Madharaasi stumbles with an uneven screenplay. Fans of Murugadoss’s earlier hits like Ghajini and Thuppakki may find echoes of those films, but Madharaasi lacks their gripping momentum. The second half feels sluggish, with predictable plot points and repetitive sequences that dilute the tension. The action, while well-executed, misses emotional weight due to insufficient build-up, reducing its impact.  

Vidyut Jammwal’s antagonist feels one-dimensional, lacking the menace needed to elevate the stakes. The romantic subplot between Sivakarthikeyan and Rukmini Vasanth fizzles, failing to ignite any real spark. Additionally, the film’s title, Madharaasi, feels disconnected from the story, leaving audiences puzzled about its relevance. Anirudh Ravichander’s music, typically a strength, disappoints here—both the songs and background score are forgettable. Tighter editing could have trimmed redundant scenes and sharpened the pacing, as the film feels overstretched at times.

Madharaasi is a watchable action entertainer that shines in parts but doesn’t fully live up to its potential. Sivakarthikeyan’s magnetic performance, well-crafted action, and a meaningful social message are its strongest assets. However, a lackluster second half, predictable scripting, and an underwhelming soundtrack hold it back. Compared to Murugadoss’s recent works, Madharaasi is a step up but falls short of his earlier masterpieces.  

A decent one-time watch for action fans and Sivakarthikeyan enthusiasts, but don’t expect the magic of Murugadoss’s finest.