Raayan Movie Review
Dhanush’s latest film, Raayan, marks a significant milestone as his 50th movie, showcasing his talents as a writer, director, and lead actor. This triple-threat endeavor is no small feat, and Dhanush delivers a compelling film that offers much to its audience.
At its heart, Raayan tells the simple yet poignant story of an elder brother’s unwavering dedication to his siblings. Raayan, the titular character, is consumed with the responsibility of providing for his two younger brothers and a sister, often sacrificing his own happiness in the process. Set in a remote village in Tamil Nadu, the story begins with Raayan being tasked by his parents to care for his siblings, only for them never to return. This leaves Raayan, portrayed by Dhanush, to devote his life to their survival.
Sundeep Kishan, Kalidas Jayaram, and Dushara Vijayan play Raayan’s siblings, each bringing depth to their roles. Sundeep is the second oldest, Kalidas the third, and Dushara the youngest and the family’s darling. Raayan’s character is a reluctant warrior, killing to protect his siblings from a young age. Despite his warlike abilities, he strives to avoid conflict, aware of the destructive potential within him. His stoic demeanor and lean physique give him the aura of an old-school Western hero.
The film could have fallen flat if focused solely on Raayan, given the familiar storyline of a sacrificial hero. However, Dhanush wisely shifts focus to the supporting characters, adding layers to the narrative. He challenges traditional notions of masculinity and femininity, particularly through the character of Aparna Balamurali, who plays the plus-sized lover of Sundeep’s character. Her portrayal defies conventional beauty standards and emphasizes emotional compatibility over physical appearance.
Dushara Vijayan also shines, transforming from a bride-to-be into a fierce protector of Raayan. In an unconventional twist, she takes on the role of the savior, a narrative choice that Dhanush embraces, prioritizing story over ego.
Despite some contrived plot choices to manage the film’s length, Dhanush compensates with stunningly shot and choreographed action sequences. The interval action block is particularly memorable. The film also balances humor, especially in scenes with SJ Suryah’s character.
Raayan successfully blends action, emotion, and humor, setting the stage for potential future stories about the Raayan clan.