What’s it about?
Muthu (Rajinikanth), a retired police officer, lives a normal life with his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. His regular life is unremarkable. One day, his police officer son goes missing. The police have asked Muthu and his family to remain silent, as it would be embarrassing for the force as a whole if word got out that an officer had been abducted.
After couple of days, they determine that an idol-theft gang is responsible for the officer’s disappearance and that they may have already murdered him.
The gang that steals idols from temples also threatens to eliminate the rest of Muthu’s family. Muthu’s first victim is the man who tried to harm his grandson. Then, he tracks down the gang’s leader, Varma (Vinayakan), and tells him that his plans to steal other idols will fail if he keeps going after his family members.
Varma initially arrives offering peace, but then gives Muthu new video footage and demands his assistance in robbing an antique Crown. Is Muthu going to accept Varma’s offer, and if so, how will he safeguard his family?
Analysis
“Jailer” is a vengeance drama directed by Nelson, whose last film, “Beast,” starred Vijay. The first half and the second half of this action drama are very different from one another. One episode after another unfolds superbly in the first half of the film, but the second half lacks strength due to its uneven narrative.
As soon as it becomes clear that Rajinikanth’s police officer son has been kidnapped, the film’s plot takes an exciting turn. Even when things slow down, the intense drama laced with subtle humor keeps you engaged. Nelson Dilip Kumar has brilliantly designed action episodes and written some solid scenes for Rajinikanth.
A couple of the scenes are especially terrific. 1) Rajinikanth’s handling of two thugs who are chasing him and making derogatory comments about his daughter-in-law. The way the episode ends stuns everyone. 2) Yogi Babu’s search for the idols’ transport vehicle and the ensuing action scene 3) The sniper fight scene that takes place just before interval.
Even after the intermission, the film keeps us interested for about fifteen to twenty minutes before suddenly switching into a farcical mode. The film goes off the rails when Sunil’s character is introduced as someone who is interested in movies and acting. We can’t help but think of Sreenu Vatila’s films “Dookudu” and “Baadshah” as we watch this whole episode. The film loses the gravity it had in the first act. Hence, the impact of the film is diminished.
The second half isn’t as interesting as the first half, with the exception of the climax scene. The final sequence is the saving grace, though. Of course, the film has many similarities with films and web dramas such as “Nobody” and “Mare of Easttown”.
Superstar Rajinikanth hasn’t been this good in quite some time. He’s cast in a role that’s appropriate for his age, and he brings all of his signature flair and swagger to the part. He is in top form as an actor as well.
Vinayakan, who plays the villain, receives good marks. Ramya Krishna gets a raw deal. She isn’t important in the overall scheme. Yogi Babu makes you laugh. Mohan Lal and Shiva Rajkumar appear in guest roles. Tamannaah is more of an item girl here.
Cinematography and music are the best among the technical departments. Anirudh’s background score is terrific.
Bottom line: “Jailer” has a strong start but a shaky finish. The first half of the film is fantastic and riveting. The second half, on the other hand, is far too routine. Overall, an average film but Rajinikanth is in top form.
Rating: 2.75/5
By Jalapathy Gudelli
Film: Jailer
Cast: Rajinikanth, Ramya Krishna, Mohan Lal, Jackie Shroff, Shiva Rajkumar, Tamannaah, Sunil, Vinayakan, and others
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
DOP: Vijay Kartik Kannan
Editor: R. Nirmal
Art: Drk Kiran
Action: Stun Siva
Producer: Kalanidhi Maran
Written and directed by: Nelson
Release Date: Aug 10, 2023
