'Vikram', presented in Telugu by Sreshth Movies, was released today in theatres. In this section, we are going to review the latest box office release.

Story:

It has been revealed that 'Vikram' is a sequel sort of movie to 'Khaidi', starring Karthi in the lead. In the present film, an investigator named Amar (Fahadh Faasil) swings into action when the serial murders of two narcotics officials and the father of one of them Karnan (Kamal Haasan) takes place. The Narcotics Central Bureau is in a state of panic because of the murders of its officers.

The sharp-witted Amar starts searching for clues. Eventually, he discovers that there is more to Karnan's death than what meets the eye. The clues lead him to a ruthless drugs baron Santhanam (Vijay Sethupathi), a hedonistic and rustic gangster who has three wives. Drugs worth two lakh crores are at stake.

The rest of the film is about who is Karnan, whether is he really dead, a few masked men on the prowl, and how Santhanam tries his best to save his skin.

Analysis:

'Vikram' is one rare action flick that commands your complete attention right from the first frame. It may not demand a must-watch of 'Khaidi' but if you watch that movie before opting for 'Vikram', you are more likely to enjoy Lokesh Kanagaraj's screenplay style, which is not typical and straightforward.

The first half keeps us guessing about what might have happened to Kamal's character. No adult would believe that he is really dead. Yet, the screenplay manages to ignite some curiosity around Karnan's fate, especially after the introduction of a mystery character named The Ghost. Kamal is the least seen character among the main ones in the first half. He makes a strong 'arangetram' at the interval and shoulders the second half with a monologue, an elaborate action sequence, and even a melodramatic song.

Fahadh Faasil's character is a treat right from the word go. He fronts the first half with his underplayed performance. The Malayalam actor becomes the ray of hope, managing to keep us glued to the screens. Vijay Sethupathi's character evokes laughs, as his characterization is meant to. His introduction scene is superb.

The second half is where the actual action unfolds. Here, the film ceases to throw up too many 'Why' questions. It answers them one by one and expects the audience to delve into the action part. The grandson element is brought in. This adds a new layer to the story. What is absent in most films of this genre is not absent here, and that's because the writing department caters to the sensibilities of the Indian audience in ample measure.

'Vikram' would have been an ordinary fare had it been all about the drug cartels and the war waged by vigilantes. It keeps the suspense intact owing to the knotty narration.

Anirudh's background score is the heart-beat of this high-stakes action film. Girish Gangadharan's camera work makes the film feel edgy and dark. Philomin Raj's editing may be seen as a mixed bag. The film is almost 172 minutes long (including ads and end credits).

The performances by Kamal, Fahadh and Vijay are top-notch, in that order. The 'Vishwaroopam' actor gets to show his charm in the climax. Fahadh can deliver a haunting performance if given the right character. The supporting and other negative performances are fine. S Gayathrie, Swathishta and Vasanti are unfamiliar to the Telugu audience but they make a mark. Santhana Bharathi, Narain, Chemban Vinod Jose and Kalidas Jayaram are also seen.

Verdict:

'Vikram' is a stylish action thriller that is not a revenge story. Its high-end production values make it a must-watch.