Once Upon A Time in Madras Movie Review
Once Upon A Time in Madras unfolds as a gripping tale exploring the lives of ordinary individuals pushed to their limits. At its heart, the movie examines the cascading effects of violence, with a gun serving as the unifying element in a sequence of murders driven by despair and poor decisions.
The film follows four distinct yet interconnected stories. Madhi (Anjali Nair) discovers a chilling betrayal by her husband and in-laws, sparking a series of unexpected events. Savitri (Abhirami) fiercely protects her trans daughter, Karthi, from a menacing loan shark, portraying the unyielding resilience of a mother. Raja (Bharath), consumed by desperation, takes up an assassination job to save his ailing wife. Meanwhile, Thalaivasal Vijay delivers a nuanced performance as a caste-obsessed father whose prejudice leads to tragic outcomes, particularly in his daughter Anitha’s (Pavithra Lakshmi) love story.
What makes the film stand out is its emphasis on the motivations and repercussions of violence, rather than the violence itself. The narrative skillfully puts everyday individuals in extraordinary situations, maintaining suspense through well-crafted twists. A highlight is Savitri’s heartfelt encouragement to her daughter, a moment that resonates deeply.
Clocking in at just two hours, the tightly woven storyline ensures a brisk pace. Bharath captures despair with remarkable intensity, while Abhirami’s restrained performance adds authenticity to her role. Anjali Nair portrays internal conflict with finesse, and Thalaivasal Vijay is compelling in his layered character. The ensemble cast works harmoniously, with each performance complementing the others.
While the story occasionally leans on coincidences and abrupt transitions, these moments ultimately help tie the plot together. The songs, are melodious
Once Upon A Time in Madras is a rewarding watch, balancing commercial appeal with meaningful storytelling. It feels like rediscovering a familiar tune with a refreshing new arrangement.
Cast: Bharath, Abhirami,Anjali Nair,Pavithra Lakshmi,Thalivasal Vijay and others
Director: Prasad Murugan
Rating…3.8/5