Rajaputhiran Movie Review: A Father's Love, A Son’s Turning Point.

Rajaputhiran Movie Review: A Father's Love, A Son’s Turning Point.

 

Rajaputhiran, directed and written by Mahaa Kandhan and produced by K.M. Safi under the banner of Crescent Cine Creations, is a poignant rural drama set in 1991 in the scenic region of Ramanathapuram. The film, which was released on May 30, 2025, has a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. At the heart of the narrative is Chellaiah (Prabhu), a devoted farmer whose overwhelming affection for his son, Patta (Vetri), unintentionally hinders the young man’s development. His overprotective decisions, such as withdrawing Patta from school and encouraging complete self-reliance, gradually suppress the boy’s independence and growth.

As Patta matures, the family faces mounting financial difficulties. In an attempt to ease their struggles, the innocent and trusting Patta accepts an illegal job offered by a local gangster.  This choice triggers a critical turning point, pulling Chellaiah into the chaos that follows. Determined to protect his son and correct the course of their lives, Chellaiah confronts the consequences head-on. The situation is further complicated by the emergence of R. V. Udayakumar as a rival force seeking to replace Linga in the local underworld, intensifying the conflict.

Prabhu delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance as Chellaiah, perfectly capturing the inner conflict of a father torn between love and responsibility. His portrayal is both authentic and deeply affecting. Vetri, known for his selective approach to powerful, message-driven stories, convincingly brings Patta to life, a character caught between familial loyalty and personal turmoil. His transformation through the narrative is compelling and impactful.

Krishna Priya adds depth and charm as Poochendu, a spirited village girl who remains steadfastly supportive of Patta. Her performance blends grace and determination, particularly in emotionally charged scenes where her character takes bold steps for love. The film’s comedic element is well-balanced, thanks to Imman Annachi’s lively exchanges with Prabhu. Adding to the humor, Vadivel makes a delightful appearance reminiscent of his "Vetri Kodi Kattu" identity as a Dubai returnee, while Thangadurai’s portrayal of “Kuwaiti Kumaresan” brings an extra layer of nostalgia and laughter, enhancing the film’s lighter moments.

On the technical side, Rajaputhiran excels with its immersive and heartfelt storytelling. Oliver Deny’s cinematography beautifully captures the essence of rural life, with sweeping visuals that bring the landscape to life. Kamalakannan K’s crisp editing maintains a seamless narrative flow, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The music by AIS Nawfal Raja complements the emotional highs and lows, enriching the film’s dramatic arcs. Altogether, Rajaputhiran is a well-crafted and emotionally grounded film that explores themes of parental love, renovation, and personal growth, making it a valuable and memorable contribution to modern Tamil cinema.