Thanal Movie Review

Thanal Review: A Gritty Thriller with Strong Performances and Intense Suspense

Thanal, directed by Ravindra Madhava, is a gritty and intense thriller that explores themes of revenge, justice, and survival. The film opens with a high-octane police encounter set in 2016, where officers successfully eliminate a gang of bank robbers operating in the slums. A year later, the narrative takes a thrilling turn as a mysterious stranger, portrayed by Ashwin Kakamanu, begins targeting the same officers, one by one, driven by a deep personal vendetta. Amid this dangerous game of cat and mouse is a young and carefree rookie cop, played by Atharvaa Murali, whose first night on duty becomes a gripping battle for survival.

Atharvaa Murali delivers a strong and layered performance, skillfully balancing charm, vulnerability, and grit as the rookie cop thrust into a perilous situation. However, it is Ashwin Kakamanu who truly shines, commanding the screen with his intense and layered portrayal of a man driven by vengeance, giving the film much of its emotional depth. Lavanya Tripathi brings grace and poise to her role, though her character is more of a supportive presence, subtly contributing to the hero’s journey.

Technically, Thanal stands out for its striking visuals, with Sakthi Saravanan’s cinematography capturing the gritty urban landscapes and claustrophobic tunnel sequences that heighten the sense of tension. The film’s production design creates a believable atmosphere, adding to its immersive quality. The second half, in particular, builds strong suspense, with well-executed action sequences that keep the audience engaged.

While certain subplots, such as the romantic angle and comic relief, could have been more streamlined, they do not overshadow the central narrative. The film’s pace does slow briefly due to flashbacks, but they provide necessary background to the characters’ motivations, especially the antagonist’s story.

The climax is staged effectively, offering satisfying twists and strong performances that tie the story together. Overall, Thanal stands as a solid thriller, notable for its compelling leads, slick cinematography, and intense atmosphere. Though not without minor flaws, it offers an engaging experience for thriller enthusiasts.

Cast: Atharvaamurali, Ashwin Kakumanu, Lavanya Triputhi and Others.

Production: Annai Film Productions

Directed by: Ravindra Madhava

Suresh Chandra.PRO

Rating…3.8/5