T J Gnanavel’s Vettaiyan starring superstar Rajanikanth was released on 10th October. Vettaiyan: The Hunter is a multi-starrer that brings together stars of different movie industries-Hindi, Malayalam, Telugu. The film delves into the controversial topic of encounter killings and their ethical implications. Encounter killings is a crime that has long been glorified on our screens, this movie has a different take on it.
Casting
Vettaiyan boasts a stellar cast, featuring legendary actors Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan in their first on-screen collaboration in decades. Rajinikanth plays SP Athiyan, a senior police officer, while Amitabh Bachchan portrays Justice Dr. Sathyadev Bramhadutt Pande. The film also stars Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, and Dushara Vijayan in pivotal roles. This ensemble cast, combined with the film’s gripping storyline, has generated significant anticipation among audiences.
Story (No spoilers)
Rajinikanth plays as Athiyan, a police officer known as an “encounter specialist” who believes in delivering swift justice through extrajudicial killings. Amitabh Bachchan plays Judge Satyadev, a human rights advocate who opposes encounter killings. The plot revolves around the investigation of a brutal murder case involving a government school teacher named Saranya (played by Dushara Vijayan). As Athiyan pursues the case, he faces moral dilemmas about his methods of delivering justice..The story explores themes like encounter killings, human rights, and the education system in India.
Performances
Rajinikanth as Athiyan:
Rajinikanth’s as usual dominates the screen with his charisma and delivers a powerful portrayal of the encounter specialist cop Athiyan.
Amitabh Bachchan as Judge Satyadev:
Bachchan’s presence is described as impactful and a great addition to the film. Though the scenes between Rajinikanth and Bachchan could have been stronger, with better dialogues.
Fahadh Faasil as Patrick:
Fahadh Faasil shines in his role as Patrick, a street-smart thief hired by Athiyan. His performance as a Horlicks-eating chatterbox adds humor and life to several scenes.
Dushara Vijayan as Saranya:
Dushara Vijayan delivers a memorable performance as Saranya, the government school teacher. Her role is pivotal to the plot and she makes her presence felt
Manju Warrier:
While Manju Warrier plays Rajinikanth’s wife, her role is limited. However, she reportedly scores well in one mass scene towards the end of the film.
Rana plays a shrewd businessman, the villian, stand talls against the hero and gives him a good fight.