Jailer movie review: Did Nelson succeed in creating a hit with Rajinikanth? Take a look

Hyderabad: Rajinikanth’s most awaited film Jailer hit the screens on Thursday. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, the film has Ramya Krishnan, Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, Shiva Rajkumar, Tamannaah Bhatia and others in pivotal roles.

Take a look at what Jailer is all about.

Story

Jailer centres around the life of Muthuvel Pandian (Rajinikanth), a retired jailer who enjoys his peaceful existence with his family and his beloved grandchild. His son Arjun (Vasantha Ravi) serves as the assistant commissioner of police, deeply committed to his profession. However, Arjun’s life takes a drastic turn when he gets abducted by Varma, a notorious and violent gangster in the city.

Muthuvel, already well-acquainted with the case his son was handling, embarks on a mission to rescue Arjun. Drawing upon the aid of his long-standing friends, Muthuvel delves into the situation, gradually unveiling the complexities surrounding the kidnapping. Throughout this endeavour, Muthuvel strives to balance his role as a loving family man with his determination to retrieve his son, while tapping into his past as a law enforcer.

Highlights

Rajinikanth’s performance in Jailer is truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. The film predominantly revolves around his character, and Rajinikanth effortlessly commands the screen with his charisma and presence. As the film serves as a significant project for Rajinikanth following the debacle of previous films like Darbar and Annathhe, director Nelson has skilfully crafted a story packed with commercial elements that showcase the star’s prowess.

The film’s storyline strikes a balance between entertainment and action, effectively catering to fans of Rajinikanth’s action-packed roles. Director Nelson, known for his affinity for dark comedy, incorporates a healthy dose of action sequences that resonate with Rajinikanth’s loyal fan base.

Anirudh Ravichander’s musical contributions, encompassing both background scores and songs, significantly enhance the film’s impact. The entertaining storyline is enriched by a blend of commercial elements, ensuring a wholesome cinematic experience. The presence of acclaimed actors like Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, and Shiva Rajkumar further elevates the visual appeal of the film.

While Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of Rajinikanth’s on-screen wife adds emotional depth, Vasantha Ravi’s role as his son contributes to the family dynamics depicted in the story. Tamannaah Bhatia, although limited to a brief appearance and the popular song Kaavaala, complements the overall narrative.

Drawbacks

The film’s pacing encounters a few hurdles, particularly in the first half where it takes around 40 minutes to establish the core plotline. Additionally, the initial 20 minutes of the second half exhibit some sluggishness and could benefit from a faster pace. Overall, Jailer occasionally suffers from a slower narrative, leading to moments of dullness.

Verdict

Jailer, starring Rajinikanth, delivers an adrenaline-filled experience that is worth experiencing on the big screen. The combination of action sequences and Nelson’s dark comedy elements will undoubtedly entertain the audience. Despite occasional pacing issues, the film encapsulates Rajinikanth’s classic style, making it a recommended watch for fans and enthusiasts seeking an engaging cinematic adventure.

Cast: Rajinikanth, Tamannaah Bhatia, Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff