VIRUNDHU MOVIE REVIEW
Cast: Arjun Sarja, Nikki Galrani, Gireesh Neyyar
Director: Thamara Kannan
Nothing is as it seems in Virundhu (also released as Virunnu in Malayalam), a thriller that tries to keep you guessing until the very end. The story revolves around Nikki Galrani, whose life is turned upside down when her father, a prominent businessman, dies under mysterious circumstances. As if that wasn’t enough, tragedy strikes again when her mother also passes away. Suddenly finding herself pursued by a shadowy gang, Nikki is rescued by Arjun, a man with secrets of his own, who takes her under his wing.
The film’s initial setup is promising, hinting at a complex web of secrets and motives, which does actually play out in the 2nd half. But then it all goes off track with a jumbled structure and characters that don’t quite cut it. The screenplay jumps erratically between scenes and timelines, sacrificing coherence for an attempt at a fast-paced thriller. There are a few suspenseful moments, but they get spoiled when the film spills the beans too early.
Despite the muddled plot, Virundhu benefits greatly from the performances of its leads. Arjun Sarja, even at 62, commands the screen with his action hero charisma and physicality. He brings a sense of gravitas to even the most absurd scenes, like the one where he infiltrates a cult wearing a bizarre, raincoat-like outfit. Nikki Galrani, too, delivers a commendable performance, bringing a quiet intensity to her role as the hunted Nikki. The supporting cast is given little to work with, their characters reduced to plot devices rather than fully-fledged individuals.
Visually, Virundhu has its moments. The action sequences, while largely predictable, are well-choreographed and visually engaging. The film also makes effective use of its locations, employing a saturated color palette that adds to the overall moodiness.
Virundhu demonstrates flashes of potential, particularly in its action sequences and lead performances. However, the film’s muddled execution prevents it from reaching a satisfying crescendo. Audiences seeking a tightly-woven thriller may find themselves wanting more.