Rajinikanth at 72: A Mass Hero for the Ages in Jailer
In the vast tapestry of Indian cinema, few names shine as brightly as Rajinikanth. The man is not just an actor; he’s an institution, a phenomenon. And in ‘Jailer’, directed and written by Nelson, Rajinikanth reminds us why he’s been at the pinnacle for almost half a century.
Plot and Characters
The film revolves around Muthuvel Pandian, portrayed by Rajinikanth, a retired jailer leading a tranquil life, capturing moments for his grandson’s YouTube channel. But when his son, a righteous cop, delves into a sinister idol smuggling racket, Muthuvel’s peaceful world shatters. He’s forced to re-enter a realm he had willingly abandoned.
The narrative is reminiscent of older classics like ‘Thangappathakkam’ and even draws parallels with Kamal Haasan’s ‘Vikram’. However, ‘Jailer’ stands apart, weaving a universe of its own, brimming with a plethora of characters that fit seamlessly into the narrative.
The Rajinikanth Phenomenon
Even at 72, Rajinikanth’s aura remains undiminished. His seasoned charisma, combined with Nelson’s idiosyncratic touches, makes ‘Jailer’ a delightful watch.
The film is a testament to Rajinikanth’s enduring appeal, proving that age is just a number when it comes to sheer talent and screen presence. His swag, reminiscent of his older movies, is back with a bang, and it’s a treat for fans and cinephiles alike.
Cinematography and Color Grading
The film’s visuals are nothing short of spectacular. The color grading accentuates the mood, with each frame telling a story of its own.
The action sequences, coupled with Anirudh’s electrifying score, are a visual and auditory treat. The cinematography by Vijay Kartik Kannan is commendable, capturing the essence of the narrative beautifully.
Supporting Cast and Performances
The film boasts of a stellar supporting cast. Big names from the Kannada and Malayalam industries have been utilized effectively.
The villain, played by Vinayakan, is menacing, marking a departure from the usual one-dimensional antagonists we often see. This strong villainous character adds depth to the narrative, making the confrontations with Rajinikanth all the more gripping.
Humor and Entertainment
One of the film’s surprising elements is its humor. Despite being an action thriller with mystery elements, the film seamlessly incorporates comedy, thanks to the brilliant performances of ‘Blast Mohan aka Sunil’ and ‘Yogi Babu’. Their comedic timing provides much-needed relief, ensuring the film doesn’t become too intense.
End Note
The movie has some flaws, including the weak portrayal of female characters and a few predictable plot points. However, Rajinikanth’s powerful on-screen presence outshines any shortcomings. His gravitas coupled with Nelson’s compelling storytelling makes ‘Jailer’ an engaging cinematic experience.
Overall, I would give ‘Jailer’ 3 out of 5 stars. The minor issues are overpowered by Rajinikanth’s acting and Nelson’s script. ‘Jailer’ is a reminder of Rajinikanth’s enduring appeal and the magic of the movies. Despite a few familiar tropes, the film shouldn’t be missed.
Author: Hawrry Bhattarai
