Vishal Takes Center Stage: Rathnam Unleashed
Vishal portrays Rathnam, a volatile and troubled individual entangled in the web of violence and intimidation, serving as the muscle for MLA Panneer Selvam, portrayed by Samuthirakani. Despite his twisted sense of justice, Rathnam is haunted by a dark past, struggling to rein in his violent impulses. His descent into brutality accelerates when he takes matters into his own hands upon learning of a schoolgirl's abuse, exacting gruesome vengeance.
The arrival of Mallika, a nurse bearing an uncanny resemblance to Rathnam's mother, further complicates his tumultuous existence. As Rathnam endeavors to protect Mallika from the clutches of thugs sent by the notorious land grabber Beema Rayudu, a relentless and bloody rampage ensues, with Rathnam leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
Action Over Plot: A Directorial Signature
Directed by Hari, Rathnam unfolds as a 90-minute adrenaline-fueled spectacle of action and violence, punctuated by intermittent moments of drama. Characterized by relentless action sequences and minimal character development, the film prioritizes Vishal's dominating presence over intricate storytelling. While the premise surrounding Mallika feels somewhat contrived, Hari's directorial focus remains steadfast on delivering Vishal's raw, unbridled ferocity.
A Need for Trimming: Pacing Concerns
Despite its action-packed narrative, Rathnam suffers from pacing issues, with repetitive action sequences and sluggish pacing detracting from the overall viewing experience. While the film's high-octane action sequences captivate, the abundance of familial drama at Mallika's residence could benefit from reduction, allowing for a more streamlined narrative flow.
Thrills Amidst Cheesy Setup
Once viewers acclimate to the film's formulaic setup, Rathnam offers a thrilling spectacle of adrenaline-pumping action. From intense knife fights to exhilarating car chases, the film delivers on its promise of high-energy entertainment, propelled by Vishal's charismatic portrayal of Rathnam.
Star-Studded Performances and Technical Brilliance
Vishal commands the screen with his dynamic performance, supported by a talented ensemble cast including Priya Bhavani Shankar, Samuthirakani, and Yogi Babu. Murali Sharma delivers a menacing portrayal of the primary antagonist, while Gautham Menon's cameo adds an unexpected highlight to the film. The soundtrack by Devi Sri Prasad complements the on-screen action, while M. Sukumar's cinematography captures the intensity of Hari's vision.
Conclusion
While Rathnam may falter in narrative depth, it excels in delivering an action-packed cinematic experience driven by Vishal's commanding presence and Hari's directorial flair. Despite its flaws, Rathnam remains a thrilling ride for fans of unabashed action cinema.
8.5