Director's Reflections: Ghilli's Influence and Rathnam's Reality
In a recent interview, director Hari expressed his renewed confidence inspired by the astonishing success of Ghilli's re-release after 20 years. However, the celebration of Ghilli's nostalgia seems to have misled the notion that the market for over-the-top action dramas still thrives. Despite the glory of Ghilli's rerun, it's evident that the success lies more in nostalgia than the film's intrinsic qualities. While Hari's recent release Rathnam attempts to revive his blockbuster style, it unfortunately feels like a rehash of his old works, lacking the freshness demanded by the audience in 2024.
Director's Creative Endeavors: Attempting Innovation in Rathnam
Known for his fast-paced screenplays and visually striking imagery, Hari's films typically employ rapid cuts and loud music to create a high-energy viewing experience. However, Rathnam deviates from this trademark style, presenting one of Hari's most restrained movies to date. Despite this departure, the film still retains Hari's signature action sequences, albeit with a concerted effort to diversify each fight scene. While there are commendable attempts at creativity, Rathnam ultimately falls short due to its clichéd storyline and lack of focus on essential creative aspects.
Plot Recap: Rathnam's Conventional Storyline and Characters
Rathnam follows the journey of its titular character, played by Vishal, who saves a local rowdy named Paneer Selvam, portrayed by Samuthirakani. As Paneer Selvam rises to become an MLA, Rathnam becomes his trusted ally, leading to their involvement in a Kangaroo court setup. The film explores the blurred lines between good and bad, portraying the duo as necessary evils in a society plagued by corrupt real estate tycoons. While Hari attempts to infuse family sentiments into the narrative, the execution feels outdated, reflecting a disconnect with contemporary storytelling standards.
8.5