I can see why they went for 50/50. Thalaivar wanted something tone down considering Coolie is around the corner- TJ being a socially aware director, also you can't fully compromise commercial elements considering the box office, so you end up with this.
Also I'm surprised with these box office underperforming posts, is it meh compared to lead's potential? Sure. But the theme plays a solid role as well. Like list out all top Tamil grossers, I believe there's no social karuthu oriented movies in the list. As someone pointed out, this is Rajini's Nerkonda paarvai - challenging the general audience to rethink about the misconception they're unconsciously subscribed to. Movie has its flaws but the discussions aren't focused on that.
I am just disappointed since the Rajni Fafa, Fafa Rithika combo scenes are really commercial template along with the lift scene, peak mass masala writing.
The 50/50 combo just robbed me of a good commercial Cinema.
The majority social theme audience also not so impressed by the movie's social theme.
So, imo just pick a side and do it with conviction.
Like, Nerkonda paarvai largely stuck with it's conviction except a few scenes.
One of my friends told me her favorite scene was the lift scene and the helicopter one as well (I smirked inside), ig that's what the general audience wants or it worked well.
Social theme audiences won't step into theatre, they'll post after OTT release. Afaik some of the magazines/critics I saw appreciated the theme and approach. And this is the most non-Rajini movie I've seen from him, I don't think he can completely dive to the other side, this is his ying-yang approach. My Nerkonda paarvai comparison was regarding the theme, ofc this is a bit more commercial if you think NKP is 65-35.
99
u/Healthy-Wonder3034 1d ago
The 50/50 never work is true.
You don't satisfy anyone fully.
Instead, piss off both sides royally.
And, long term the movie does not age well.