Hari, the mastermind behind action-packed films like “Singam” and “Samy,” joins forces with actor Vishal once again in “Rathnam,” promising a quintessential masala flick filled with adrenaline-pumping action sequences. However, does this collaboration manage to capture the audience’s attention, or is it just another run-of-the-mill film?
Set in the heartlands of Tamil Nadu along the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border, “Rathnam” kicks off with a gripping tale of bandits attacking a bus in the hills of Tirupati, leading to a chain of events that unfold over the years.
Vishal portrays Rathnam, a rowdy-turned-MLA’s right-hand man, who operates under a set of principles, despite his rough exterior. When his path crosses with nurse Mallika (played by Priya Bhavani Shankar), Rathnam finds himself entangled in a web of mysteries and dangers.
True to Hari’s signature style, “Rathnam” is packed with high-octane action sequences, intense jeep chases, and humor injected by supporting characters.
However, despite the adrenaline rush, the film falls short on logic and coherence, particularly in the second half. The storyline meanders, with scenes feeling disconnected and the emotional depth lacking.
Adding to the disappointment are the forgettable songs by music director Devi Sri Prasad, which fail to leave a lasting impression.
While Vishal delivers a commendable performance, supported by a decent cast including Priya Bhavani Shankar and Samuthirakani, the film fails to stand out as a memorable addition to Vishal’s action-packed repertoire.
In essence, “Rathnam” may be hailed as a typical masala Hari film, but it ultimately feels like old wine served in an old bottle. With its predictable tropes and lackluster execution, the film may leave audiences craving for a fresher and more engaging cinematic experience.
Despite its flaws, “Rathnam” still manages to offer moments of entertainment, particularly for fans of Vishal and Hari’s previous collaborations. The action sequences are well-executed, and Vishal’s portrayal of Rathnam brings a certain charisma to the character.
However, these moments are overshadowed by the film’s lack of depth and coherence, leaving much to be desired in terms of storytelling and character development.
One aspect where “Rathnam” excels is in its portrayal of rural Tamil Nadu, with picturesque landscapes and authentic settings adding to the film’s ambiance. However, this alone is not enough to compensate for the film’s shortcomings in other areas.
In conclusion, while “Rathnam” may offer some moments of entertainment for die-hard fans of Tamil cinema, it fails to leave a lasting impact due to its formulaic approach and lack of innovation.
Despite the efforts of its talented cast and crew, the film ultimately falls short of delivering a truly engaging cinematic experience.
As audiences eagerly await the next release from Vishal and Hari, “Rathnam” serves as a reminder that even the most promising collaborations can sometimes miss the mark.