Jailer Movie Review
The much-anticipated movie, Jailer, directed by Nelson and starring the legendary Rajinikanth, is creating waves with its intriguing storyline and powerful performances. With an impressive cast that includes Rajinikanth, Vasanth Ravi, Vinayakan, Jackie Shroff, Mohanlal, and Shiv Rajkumar, the film brings together a stellar ensemble to captivate audiences.
Jailer explores the deep love a father has for his son, leading him to take a back seat in the family dynamics. Gone is the feared patriarch, replaced by a figure who is comfortably embraced by his family. His wife no longer caters to his every wish, his grandchild trusts him, and his son shares a warm bond. However, beneath this calm surface lies a layered character, and Jailer does an exceptional job of unraveling his true self gradually.
The film takes us through various stages of this multifaceted character. Initially, he is Muthu, a playful, charming, and witty personality familiar to all. Then, he transforms into Muthuvel Pandian, a character that resonates with those who have encountered Alex Pandian. Jailer adds a fascinating twist, showcasing shades of ego, pride, and even a callback to the superstar’s iconic movie, Moondru Mugam (1982). But beyond these layers, lies Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, the hidden aspect he had kept buried for years.
This hidden layer, which caused his wife many sleepless nights in the past, reveals intriguing depths. It’s the part that put him in danger, and in Jailer, it emerges as a compelling aspect. Despite giving up his starched khaki uniform, Tiger Muthuvel Pandian’s essence persists within Muthu. It’s a play on the classic Jekyll and Hyde, with a twist. Nelson infuses Mr. Hyde with a dangerous yet captivating sense of humor, a unique addition that adds charm to the film.
Director Anil Sharma skillfully balances nostalgia and storytelling, maintaining the essence of the original Gadar. The film showcases grand action scenes and patriotic dialogues, reminiscent of Tara Singh’s signature style.
Rajinikanth’s performance as Muthuvel Pandian is solid, emphasizing brain over brawn. The character lets others do the physical work while he orchestrates the operation. The film skillfully avoids the need for Rajinikanth to engage in unbelievable action sequences. This refreshing approach emphasizes his strategic brilliance, where he collaborates with brawny allies who respect his power as a former jailer at Tihar. Jackie Shroff, Shiv Rajkumar, and Mohanlal complement the cast, and their roles, though somewhat expected, showcase the star power they bring to the screen.
Nelson, along with cinematographer Vijay Kartik Kannan, creates an aesthetically pleasing film with a distinct visual language. The film’s shots, especially those that establish Muthu as a jailer in a flashback, and moments before he seeks revenge, showcase a stunning connection. Vinayakan’s character, Varma, is particularly well-crafted, adding depth to the story and delivering a satisfying climax.
While the treatment and execution of Jailer are commendable, the core plot follows a formulaic pattern. This, however, works in favor of the film, distinguishing it from some previous disappointments in the same genre. Jailer manages to surpass expectations, proving to be a step above recent attempts.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge the film’s shortcoming in its female character representation. Jailer may not pass the Bechdel test, but its entertainment value shines brightly, akin to other successful commercial films. Female characters in the film serve as props to elevate the male characters, leaving much to be desired in terms of well-rounded arcs.
In conclusion, Jailer is a thrilling and engaging film, showcasing Rajinikanth’s prowess and an exciting storyline that captivates audiences. While it may fall short in female character representation, its entertainment value and performances make it a worthwhile watch for Rajinikanth fans and lovers of action-packed dramas.
