User Reviews

Maharaja (2024) Tamil movie Review: All I knew was that this movie is from the director of "Kurangu Bommai" that had been released in 2017, though it was a good thriller it didn't do that well. This is Nithilan Swaminathan's second movie after a gap of seven years. However, you get a feeling that this 50th movie or so of this already veteran director. Also, this one is in fact 50th movie of Vijay Sethupathi whose fan I had become after watching his initial movies starting from "Pizza". This one should be a case study of how screen play of movie should be written taking simplest of stories and how characters should be developed in the script. Any movie would be great if it doesn't allow you to guess what is going to happen next? The suspense should not only be edge of the seat, but it should have many wow moments that is beyond audience's wildest imagination. Also, it should be more than engrossing and not just that, it should take you along as the story unfolds on the screen. In such a way that you end up feeling that you are part of what is happening. Finally, it should make you think long after you return home. Maharaja does all that and becomes one of the best Tamil movies of this year and the best 50th movie for Vijay Sethupathi. Take a bow to the director Nithilan Swaminathan for creating magic with amazing screen play from a simple story. You will think it is just another simple story only when you get to decipher the complete plot of this amazing movie. And you may have to see this movie more than once to get everything that you witnessed in the first view. I am really glad that this movie just came when everyone thought Malayalam movies are doing great even with Tamil audience and everyone started asking, what had happened to Tamil movie makers as they couldn't cater to the requirement of Tamil speaking audience? So much was the impact that old movies were re-released in the theaters due to lack of any good new movies to compete with Malayalam to Tamil dubbed movies. Technically this movie is brilliant in all ways. The major technical success is the wonderful BGM by Ajaneesh Loknath of KGF fame. I always associate him with loud BGM that not only vibrates chairs of theater also makes you buy a bottle of Amurthanjan/Headache balm. However, this one is an exception and crisp editing by Philomin Raj. Coming to performances, Vijay Sethupathi stands out both playing the younger version (Whom I like most) and the older version with good make up and even mannerism. You will feel nostalgic about his character in the movie "naduvula konjam pakkatha kaanom". It is nice to see Anurag Kashyap's amazing performance though there is no lip sync at many places. That is just a minor glitch as you can't think of anyone else in that role. However, taking a comedian and make him play one of the lead bad guys speaks volumes about the director. Singampuli is just amazing, and you start hating him to the core. I can't take all the names as it would make this review still longer one. Yes, you can't forget the girl who plays Vijay Sethupathi's daughter in this movie. This one is one amazing movie of this year and perfect choice for Vijay Sethupathi's 50th movie. Very Highly recommended. Every Cinephile should watch this one.

My rating is solid 10/10.

One humble request :- Please don't reveal about the plot to anyone. Let everyone watch it and experience it themselves!

Nicely crafted movie with exceptional performances by Vijay Sethupathi and Anurag Kashyap. Engaging from the first scene itself. Mamta Mohandas has been underutilised. Abirami is impressive though for a short time. Casting was excellent.

I need to watch it again, as I still have one question that was unanswered. Watching in a theatre was great because of a very appropriate background score. It's cinematic brilliance at its best.

This is one movie where gore needed to be allowed to drive home a certain point (unlike animal). Strikes a very deep chord as you think hard, long after the movie is over.

Maharaja is one of the finest films of recent times! After a long time such good cinema is made in India. We can consider this one of the cult classics of Indian Cinema! The performances are good the direction is good and the script is just mind blowing! You are hooked to the film throughout! The non linear story telling also makes this a superb watch! Vijay Sethupathi as always has not failed to impress the audience. The most surprising performance is of Mr. Anurag Kashyap, he was very good in the role. There is a point in the film where you feel you have lost hope but then again some twist comes and you are back to normal. Full marks to the director Nithilan Swaminathan for making such good film!!

"Maharaja" is a rollercoaster of a movie that keeps you guessing until the very end. The plot twists and turns are unexpected, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. The pacing is perfect, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout.

The characters are complex and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. The acting is superb, with each actor bringing their character to life with passion and intensity.

The cinematography is visually stunning, capturing the grandeur of the royal setting while also highlighting the raw emotions of the characters. The music is perfectly matched to the tone of the movie, adding to the overall suspense and excitement.

Overall, "Maharaja" is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good thriller. It's a captivating story with twists, turns, and outstanding performances. Don't miss it!

Isaignani Ilaiyaraja avargal, after this movie: Naan sivanenu dhaane poiki'irundhen.... yaar vambu thumbkkaachu ponaena?

Gouravam gouravam nu yen gouravathiye narradichteengle da!

Daaai! Nee yendha JILLA'vla irundhalum seri.

On usuru yen kaila dhaan-di'yei! Yen kaila dhaan.

About the movie: Screenplay Masterclass. I have NOT seen anything written like this in Tamil cinema before.

Any details about the plot may potentially reveal spoilers so I'll refrain from doing so. Vijay Sethupathi and Anurag Kashyap were GREAT (minus the lip-sync) along with the secondary characters. Any actor could have played these roles, from the Nassers to the SJ Suryas; but the screen presence that these two have elevates the scenes and the brand of the movie that will make people buy the tickets; and rightfully so - because a film like this deserves to be seen by many.

But to put the actors ABOVE the script and the screenplay would be blasphemous. VJS will likely get over-credited for this movie and that's fine as long the writing gets the most props for this film. It would be an injustice otherwise.

Is everything a 100% perfect? No. But the brilliance that the writing has demonstrated overshadows that things that didn't work for me along with a couple of the casting choices didn't have any impact on the plot. Could have been anybody, and folks who were chosen didn't add to the screen presence either. However this is not the movie to nitpick on.

Go in blank, sit back and watch things unfold. You have not seen anything like this before. If you're a cinema lover, you're in for a special treat with the screenplay.

Absolute MASTERPIECE from K-wood in2024.

The screenplay of the film stands unique and was mind-blowing.

VJS at his best.

Performance of Anurag and Natty, SingamPuli was also notable.

Music and Background score was Good, Ajeesh done a very good job.

Nithilan Saminathan is gonna be the next big thing in kollywood🤞🏻 Nithilan's guts to blend humor in this serious subject is just amazing.

U dont even know whats gonna happen next. The Interval ends with a high, leaving many questions within u. The pre-climax and the climax will answer u.

Missing this film in theatres is the worst thing u can ever do this year.

So Go watch Maharaja NOW!

Absorbing screenplay by Director Nithilan Swaminathan ;they way screenplay written ,the way story narrating ,Unexpected twist and turns and Terrific Emotional ending ;all this make Maharaja a Must watch movie in theater !

Background score is Perfect in every moments of the movie to keep us engaged !

& for the performances ; Anurag Kashyap is Excellent and his role had great Impact in this movie ,all others did a good work !

This movie Screenplay deserves a Great Leading performance , then came Vijay Sethupathi ,in his 50'th acting role ,he delivered a compelling fascinating performance to Amaze us !

Go watch it in theater & don't be the Spoilers of the Movie!

My Rating 9 !!

No one can think to write like this story and more over it is a Oscar winning movie one who denies to give the award he is not human being and all credits goes to the crew each actors gave their best. The more interesting part is the footprint 👣 of the child which is given in the chain that is unbelievable the team contribution to the movie is so amazing each and every character in the movie was fabulous. The vision is put perfectly in the screen play and the movie elevation from the second off was amazing and the climax was such a rocking performance it was. I believe this movie is gonna surprise for the cinema industry.

Despite being critical of Vijay Sethupathi's filmography in the past (including Mugizh, 2021), I can confidently say Maharaja strikes a chord of undeniable brillaince for his 50th golden jubilee offering.

There's so much to unpack in this film, I'm still trying to wrap my head around everything, but major props to Sethupathi. He deserves a standing ovation for embodying the director's vision. The complexities, the writing is a no nonsense game which gets it right with a brilliant climax that lingers long after the credits roll. The first half features familiar faces from the director's debut, with lighthearted moments woven into the theft investigation, the police station chaos, and the antics of "Kurangu Bommai," the burglar sidekick. Character introductions are swift, establishing VJS's family life, daughter, PT teacher role, the city's robbery, and the presence of Anurag Kashyap (whose dubbing might raise an eyebrow, but his performance shines in the climactic construction site sequence). For the sake of avoiding spoilers, I'll refrain from detailing his henchman's significance.

Ajanessh Loknath, a powerhouse known for his work in Kannada and Telugu cinema is the perfect musical accompaniment for this movie.

Director Nithilan Swaminathan, who stunned audiences with his debut "Kurangu Bommai," showcases his mastery of non-linear storytelling, solidifying him as a rising force in Tamil cinema. His mastery of non-linear storytelling is brilliant. He's on track to be a big name in Tamil cinema.

There's just so much to this movie, but for now, I gotta recommend it if you're looking for something deeper than just a masala popcorn flick. Sure, some might compare the climax to stuff like Oldboy or Irrata, or even Villeneuve's Incendies (2010), but don't let that stop you. Ignore the overzealous puluthis who act like they've seen it all - this is one you don't want to miss.

Bonus recommendation! Rishab Shetty has produced a movie titled Shivamma which has released today, just came out, and if you're into indie films, you should check it out. Support the indies!

It has been a long time since I have witnessed a script that utilizes the technique of "subversion" so tactfully. The initial half cleverly diverges into various paths with not just one, but three distinct plotlines running parallel to each other.

Even though Initially you might find yourself quite confused, struggling to comprehend the purpose of it all.

However, rest assured, all your confusion will be dissipated and your queries will be addressed at appropriate times, which specifically transpires in the latter portion of the second half.

And trust me, the final act will astonish you and leave you profoundly moved.

Now I will refrain from revealing anything more to avoid any inadvertent spoilers, though I will say this; if you are a seasoned viewer, well-versed in "foreign cinema", you might be able to anticipate the concluding twist from afar.

On the contrary, if you are fresh to this particular genre or lack exposure to "World Cinema," brace yourself for an unforgettable revelation!

P. S. Kashyap maybe going through tough times as a 'director', but as an 'actor' he continues to evolve with each character he commits himself to. He nailed his role here, especially in the last ten minutes, that will certainly leave a mark!

This movie is mixture of two timeline where they managed to sync it with perfect screenplay. They also magically shot the movie in such a way that the audience tends to sit for whole time until the end of movie. No doubt about Vijay sir, he did fantastic jobs. Talking about the script....hats off to Nithilan Swaminathan. The way he portrayed it, it takes a lot of imagination and planning. The supporting also did fantastic job. In this film the director haven't wasted time in slow mo shots or entry shots like other movies everything is picture perfect. Once again it's a master piece for those audience who know what should be called a movie.

Watched the movie in Hindi. Won't say it's flawless, there is one gaping plot-hole and there are other goof-ups too but on the whole, it's an excellent attempt at a different kind of non-linear story-telling. The script is very cleverly written and that is the highlight of the movie. Like an initial scene of the movie is explained completely only in the last scene! The story unfolds spirally, layer by layer - stuff that you have seen previously, keeps getting newer meanings as the movie progresses. The movie's worth a watch to experience that narrative-style that's not common in Indian movies.

A must watch movie. What an acting from Vijay Sethupathy. The story, screenplay and the overall making is just outstanding. All the characters were perfectly apt for their respective roles. Anuarag Kashyap also deserves a huge applause for his performance.

The story is well written and the screenplay was also solid. I don't share the same opinion about the climax because a similar theme have been used in movies all around the world and recently there was a movie from Mollywood which had a similar theme in the ending. I'm not saying the climax was boring, it was great, but it didn't have much impact for me. That doesn't mean it won't work for everyone. Do give it a go. Overall the move is pure class!

Screenplay That's Just Amazing.... Story direction was best..... And vijay sethupathi's acting skills was on another level...

The movie is full of Thrilling, fun, and crime., I bet everyone will Love It.

NOTE:- By This Movie Is Everyone In Our Society Will Learn Some Good Value And Manners How To Treat Others Especially Girl Child....

Everyone It's A Humble Request That Please Watch This Movie With Your Friends And Family By Which They Will Also Get What Is Right And Wrong In Our Everyday Society.....

And it's not like that no one would like the movie actually it's story direction is amazing and funny...

"Maharaja (2024)"

Nithilan's "Maharaja" is the most satisfying film I've seen in recent times. The director, who also wrote the screenplay, succeeds in keeping me engrossed from beginning to end, constantly raising the question, "What's next?"

It's an ordinary story transformed into something extraordinary by the script and direction-a testament to Nithilan's brilliance. The non-linear presentation beautifully scripts the narrative, filling the audience with both confusion and excitement. It must be said that he also succeeds in creating characters with depth.

Even when aspects of the story seem predictable, the question "How?" arises. When the writer provides an answer that surpasses our predictions, it signifies a writer's success. Nithilan has achieved that here. The shocking twists come one after another, and their presentation style is commendable.

The film encompasses comedy, action, emotions, messages, thrilling elements, violence, etc. Everything is placed precisely where it should be.

Regarding the actors, Vijay Sethupathi has made his fiftieth film superb. Such films are his forte, allowing him to portray his character with ease. Sachana Namidas, who played the daughter, delivered a beautiful performance. Most actors have done well in their roles; hence I am not mentioning everyone here.

In other aspects of the film, Ajneesh Loknath has created the most suitable background music for the story. At no point did it feel excessive or insufficient.

The sound design and mixing were also excellent.

The fight scenes were impressive. Cinematography and editing are equally commendable. The art department, makeup department, and costume department have all performed their jobs impeccably.

VFX is the only slight drawback at first glance. In one scene where Abhirami converses with Anurag Kashyap, his lip sync was off, which was noticeable.

There are some lingering questions that seem to invite another viewing for answers.

_________________________________________ SPOILER ALERT: Vijay Sethupathi's character is beautifully written. His love for his daughter and the lengths he will go to are evident from the beginning.

He narrates a story at the police station and repeatedly tells it to make others believe it-reminiscent of "Georgekutty" from "Drishyam." Initially, it seemed that his daughter's repeated storytelling about "Lakshmi" was to emphasize Lakshmi's importance. However, by the film's end, it appeared to foreshadow his ability to retell a story convincingly-even to his own daughter.

A lingering question is whether he had a backstory before his marriage; his strength suggests as much.

_________________________________________

Overall, it's a well-written character that moves seamlessly through a clearly defined arc.

My personal experience with the movie was highly engaging during my theater visit, leaving me completely satisfied. This review reflects my initial impressions; my opinions may evolve with subsequent viewings or changes in life perspectives.

To any crew members reading this: please forgive any inaccuracies in my perspective. If any criticisms are valid, I hope they serve as constructive feedback for future projects.

"The movie provided more satisfaction than the money I spent on the ticket."

(Opinions are strictly personal. Thank you.)

Story, screen play, direction, music, acting... you name it you have it. This is what you called picture perfect. The smooth transition in narrating the past and the present is just brilliant and will be a reference point for future film makers. Credits go to the screen play writer here. VJS what an acting, simply brilliant. Surprise element is the short comedian turned villain, he is going to be the most hated person after this movie so watch out. In short everything was brilliant just watch it you and you will love it. I am trying to hard to find some negative point about this movie in the remaining character required but I'm can't find one as there are no negatives in this one.

With slow start and weird demands, it appears that this movie is totally confused. Later many parallel stories started, which added up the confusion .... But this movie rewards a patient viewer. The moment all dots started connecting, movie reaches to a new level. And the climax (though slightly predictable in last 10 min) is just wow. Excellent acting skill shown by Vijay Sethupati .. he was very intense. All supporting actors were good.

It also have very good direction. The narrative can be slightly better as it creates lots of confusion in first half. But again the same confusion turns in thrill.

Hats off to the makers and actors .

The movie should be rated Adults only. Its too gruesome and has some very distrubing scenes. The fact that it got U/A tells Indian movie board censor board is non-existent. What the hell were they thinking giving this U/A? The subject and story all of it is very adult.

Yes the screenplay is brilliant with the twists and turns. First 30-40 mins drags but once it picks pace, keeps it going. I loved the way they ended the arc of the girl child. There are some great performances in the movie.

I just dont understand why are such vivid violence movies being made now. You could have conveyed everything without showing such crudeness.

Overall its a good idea and concept to show, you cant escape your crimes and they will visit you where you least expect it.

The narrative is robust, though it contains some disturbing elements.

The film follows a traditional Tamil movie treatment, and while the screenplay may come off as somewhat perplexing, it is skillfully crafted.

The plot twists are effectively executed even the predictable climax twist, and showcasing the strength of the writing.

Vijay Sethupathy delivers a stellar performance, as expected.

Anurag Kashyap, Abhirami, Natty and the rest of the cast perform admirably, with a special mention to the child actor.

Mamatha Mohandas is wasted.

The music is passable, though not remarkable.

The cinematography leaves room for improvement; it isn't bad, but it does have a somewhat cheap feel.

The direction is commendable.

Overall, it is worth watching.

If you watch Global cinema specialy Korean films then you will film nothing special in this movie. First half is mostly nonsense and it may frustrate you if you seek logic in a story. Like why there was a cobra required twice in the first half of the movie and also Maharaja easily holding a venomous snake in the police station. Additionally the way policeman's have treated Maharaja in the first half. It feels in this world there is only Black or white no body has layers like real world. The only silver lining are the actors, they have done a good job. Ultimately, if you watch world cinema and like genre specific films then you will be highly underwhelmed.

This is call story telling. This is so bloody engaging, so very bold, so very amazing. Everyone has to watch this move for what the story is, what screenplay, direction masterclass.

Hats off to the director. The way he has connected 3 different stories running within a story and how the movie moves from one story to another. It has the thrill, it has the excitement, it has that ummph!. No one know where this is going, but wherever it is, it is mind blowing journey. You cannot miss a single frame in the move, if you really want to connect the dots and understand the story.

I watch this Dubbed in hindi. I am 100% sure in Tamil (original) it would be much more in terms of what i felt for the movie.

Again, hats off!!!

Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi and all co actors done excellent job . Director nithilan screenplay and direction in best role apart of this.also drama screenplay stunt lighting editing cinematography music everyone best . Nithilan next movie waiting for all.enjoy the entertainment all of them.thanks all team and producers also.good movie watch it all of you.2024 blockbuster collection achieved definitely. Support for this movie all of you.keep good positive spreading.supporting actors done great job.interval block also very good.climax such a wonderful.good action suspense thriller excellent movie.