Pandiraaj’s “Thalaivan Thalaivii” starring Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen is a loud, frustrating portrayal of a toxic marriage, filled with characters who desperately need intervention.
When Love Meets Loudness
The film introduces Agasaveeran (Vijay Sethupathi) and Arasi (Nithya Menen), who quickly fall for each other in an arranged meeting. He’s a successful parotta master, she’s an MBA graduate, and their instant connection seems promising.
However, their families, particularly Arasi’s brother Porchelvan, hold a mysterious history with Agasaveeran’s clan. Despite initial resistance, Arasi chooses to marry her “parotta master.” Post-marriage, the couple discovers Agasaveeran’s family has a reputation for trouble.
What begins as a love story soon devolves into a cycle of arguments fueled by ego and constant interference from both families. Arasi frequently leaves her in-laws’ home, only for Agasaveeran to bring her back, a routine that persists even after they have a child.
A Constant Battle of Voices
From a lighthearted start with some laughs, courtesy of Yogi Babu, the movie quickly transforms into a “scream-a-thon.” Characters are perpetually yelling at each other, from the lead couple to their mothers and siblings.
This relentless shouting creates a headache-inducing experience for the audience. Yogi Babu’s character, Chithirai Kumar, occasionally offers soft, calming one-liners that provide brief respites from the high-decibel drama.
Wafer-Thin Storyline and Problematic Themes
The film’s reliance on constant dialogue, often lacking substance, highlights the thinness of its script. The story fails to evolve, repeatedly pushing characters into repetitive arguments without any real progression.
Director Pandiraaj’s attempts to give Agasaveeran a “mass appeal” often feel out of sync with the movie’s tone. What could have been an absurd comedy instead becomes a wasted opportunity due to subpar writing.
“Thalaivan Thalaivii” also dangerously normalizes toxic relationships, suggesting that such conflicts are “normal in marital lives.” Instead of merely showcasing these dynamics, the film appears to glorify them under the guise of “love.”
Characters in Limbo
Despite occupying most of the screen time, Agasaveeran and Arasi remain underdeveloped and superficial. The narrative perpetuates an outdated notion, portraying the women in the families (Pottu, Aavarnam, Ragavarthini) as primary instigators of marital discord.
Meanwhile, the male characters, though some get brief moments, largely remain passive observers, contributing little to the unfolding drama.
Performances That Shine Through the Noise
Amidst the chaos, the undeniable on-screen chemistry between Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen is a major highlight. Their connection feels genuine, whether in romantic moments or heated exchanges, even when their characters’ actions don’t.
Nithya Menen particularly impresses with her effortless ability to build rapport with her co-stars. Chemban Vinod Jose delivers a strong performance as Arasaangam, and it’s refreshing to see Yogi Babu’s comedic talents used thoughtfully, rather than as the target of cheap jokes.
Santhosh Narayanan’s musical score and M Sukumar’s cinematography are serviceable, contributing adequately to the film’s overall feel.
- The film portrays a highly toxic marriage complicated by intrusive families.
- It’s characterized by constant yelling and repetitive arguments, leading to a frustrating viewing experience.
- The screenplay is criticized for being underdeveloped and potentially glorifying unhealthy relationship patterns.
- Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen’s strong on-screen chemistry is a key redeeming factor.
“Thalaivan Thalaivii” ultimately presents a loud, drawn-out marital drama that struggles to find a meaningful message amidst its many issues.
