Pa Ranjith’s Thangalaan, starring Chiyaan Vikram, was one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year and it’s clear that the excitement was well deserved. Now that the film is finally in theatres, it’s safe to say that it lives up to the hype. Thangalaan is a stunning visual spectacle, enhanced by the powerhouse performances of its cast.

The film is set against the backdrop of a British-led expedition to excavate the gold mines of Kolar. Colonizer Clement makes a deal with the tribe led by Thangalaan (Vikram), offering them a share of the gold in exchange for their participation in the excavation.

Thangalaan is not just a mythical action drama; it is a powerful narrative that tackles a significant social issue – the relentless struggle for power and the oppression of the marginalized sections of society. The film vividly shows how the oppressed rise up against their oppressors. Thangalaan, the main character, is a figure of tremendous physical strength and indomitable ambition. His deep-rooted desire to uplift his tribe drives him to make difficult decisions, even if it means allying himself with the forces that seek to dominate them – all in the pursuit of a better future for his people.

It’s great how director Pa Ranjith weaves such a serious subject into a film and makes it even more exciting.
Vikram is undeniably the heart and soul of Thangalaan and delivers a performance that is nothing short of exceptional. As Thangalaan, he commands the screen with a powerful blend of intensity and depth, fully embodying a character who is as internally torn as he is challenged by the external dangers of his quest. Vikram doesn’t just play the role – he lives it, capturing the inner struggle of a man torn between his ambitions and the harsh reality he faces. Parvathy, as Gangamma, Thangalaan’s wife, delivers a performance that is both striking and unforgettable. Gangamma is far from being just a follower of her husband; she is a strong, independent character with her own perspective and influence on the story. Malavika Mohanan plays the role of Aarathi and she too is fierce and powerful. Her first few scenes as Aarathi are truly overwhelming.

Malavika Mohanan delivers a passionate and powerful performance as Aarathi, with her initial scenes being particularly striking. The cinematography by A. Kishor Kumar elevates the film and offers some truly remarkable visual effects. While many scenes, particularly those involving lush greenery and aerial shots, are visually impressive, the sequences in the mines could have been executed with more finesse.

Certain parts of the film, with their mythical elements, evoke a sense of horror, which adds to the entertainment. What is really impressive about the film is that it reveals much more beneath the surface. It unfolds like an onion, with layers gradually peeled away to reveal deeper complexities.

The film repeatedly addresses caste politics and explores the dynamics between oppressor and oppressed. The Thangalaan tribe is looked upon with contempt by British officers who take advantage of their naivety. Throughout the film, Ranjith is harshly critical of Brahmanism and the Varna system. However, he maintains the dignity of the tribe by not openly favoring one side in his portrayal. The film also explores a parallel theme, the corrupting power of greed. The relentless pursuit of gold that drives everyone involved, including the tribe, clouds their judgement and distorts their rationality.

Ranjith handles the themes of Brahmanism and Buddhism in a balanced way, presenting perspectives from both sides. Women are portrayed in the film as individuals with distinct identities and not as mere background characters. The background score, while good, could have been more impactful. Given the intensity of the story, stronger rhythms and beats might have been more appropriate, but music director GV Prakash Kumar opted for a folk style, which, while entertaining, lacks the power required for the story.

However, the film fails to build an emotional connection with the characters. It lacks the depth needed for the audience to fully engage with the journeys of the main characters. In one particular scene involving Thangalaan and his family, the intended emotional depth falls short. The attempt to create a politically correct narrative seems to have come at the expense of a strong, plot-oriented connection.

Thangalaan is one of Vikram’s best performances and gives him ample scope to act and showcase his skills. The first half of the film is deeply engaging and offers several thrilling moments. The second half, while remaining gripping, slacks at times. The climax is particularly powerful and delivers a compelling message. Thangalaan is definitely a must-watch at the cinema as its enchanting story and exceptional performances make it a spectacle that film lovers should not miss.