Last updated: 11 January 2023

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Film: Thunivu (Tamil) / Tegimpu (Telugu), translates to ‘Courage’

Directed by: H. Vinoth (of Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru, Valimai fame)

Cast: Ajith Kumar, Manju Warrier, Samuthirakani, John Kokken, Ajay and Veera

Highlights: Terrific performance by Ajith Kumar, racy screenplay (H. Vinoth) with interesting plot twists, relatable and impactful mutual fund subplot, brilliant camerawork and slick editing

Lowlights: mediocre background score and forgettable songs (Ghibran), poor VFX, stretched and unrealistic action scenes

Cinemania rating: ★★★☆☆

Detailed Review

Plot: In Thunivu, a gang of robbers attempt to loot a bank however they come across a mysterious man (Ajith Kumar) inside, who subdues them. As the bank staff and customers have a sign of relief, clap and thank their saviour, he shocks them by revealing that he also intends to rob the bank. The stranger, calling himself Michael Jackson, gets help from an accomplice Kanmani (Manju Warrier) who is waiting outside in a van. Their motive is revealed in layers of flashbacks.

Performances: Ajith Kumar delivers a brilliant performance in a role that looks like an extension of his Mankatha role. Samuthirakani, playing the police commissioner of Chennai and Manju Warrier, playing Ajith Kumar’s accomplice Kanmani do a good job. John Kokken’s role is poorly written – his comical expressions in serious scenes dilutes the impact of that scene.

Technical departments: H. Vinoth’s screenplay in the first half is fast-paced, however the second half lags a bit with stretched action sequences. Editing (Vijay Velukutty) and camerawork are top notch. Ghibran’s score is a disappointment. VFX is mediocre and some blast sequences look patchy.

Overall, Thunivu is an enjoyable film with a hard-hitting message on bank scams. Despite a majority of the film being set inside the bank, the fast-paced screenplay with plot twists and Ajith Kumar’s performance keep the viewer hooked to the screen for most of its runtime.

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Follow Cinemania on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for updates and reviews on Indian films.