Raayan Movie Review: Dhanush Serves Up a Deliciously Subtle Gangster Flick

Dhanush’s directorial style shines with a unique purity. The stunning scene capturing the Raayan trio in action truly showcases his creative vision.

Even before director Dhanush unveils the ten-headed Raavana image of Raayan (portrayed by Dhanush himself), there are compelling reasons to view the protagonist as a reinterpretation of the demon-god. With a caring sister who can hold her own, a pair of contrasting brothers, and a family that exudes a predisposition for violence, Raayan and his kin resemble a clan of asuras. The narrative seems to ponder on the notion of introducing a family of asuras into modern society, grappling with poverty, neglect, and lawlessness. As Raayan’s parents and siblings vanish, leaving him to endure hardships, he seeks solace in a deity-figure, a move unconventional in our mythology where gods rarely favor asuras. Consequently, he becomes the first victim, sparking a struggle for survival within the Raayan family. Unlike Kokki Kumar, who epitomized ‘survival of the fittest,’ Raayan’s survival strategy isn’t about ruthless ambition. He opts for a more strategic and grounded approach, prioritizing family unity over personal advancement, while his siblings pursue individual aspirations like education.

When the action scenes kick in, they are carefully crafted with attention to lighting, choreography of stunts, and the use of music. AR Rahman skillfully manipulates percussion to enhance the intensity. During Muthu’s fights, urgent beats accompany the action, while the Raayan trio’s entrance is reminiscent of trained assassins in a Tarantino film, with the composer opting for ominous, dull thumps. Notice Rahman’s score during the scene where Durga struggles to save Raayan; observe how Dhanush ensures Dushara’s strength is portrayed without physical inferiority. This showcases that for director Dhanush, actor Dhanush is seen as a performer rather than a star. Hence, Dushara is given an impressive fight sequence where she creatively uses her surroundings for destruction, a departure from the typical victim portrayal of women in such films. Durga, akin to the vengeful goddess she’s named after, embodies relentless determination in the chaotic hospital fight scene, reminiscent of a film centered around her channeling her inner Beatrix Kiddo, moving from one adversary to the next. However, Raayan does have its shortcomings. While the film admirably doesn’t prioritize star power, SJ Suryah’s established stardom may overshadow the character of Sethu, limiting his ability to play to the crowd as he usually does. At times, he seems to push the boundaries of his character more than necessary, potentially straining the believability of his role. This dynamic creates a tension where he shifts between comedic moments and more serious scenes. Despite this, the film presents a compelling narrative that challenges traditional gender roles and offers a refreshing take on female empowerment through characters like Durga.” This revised version should read more naturally and authentically.

When the action scenes kick in, they are carefully crafted with attention to lighting, choreography of stunts, and the use of music. AR Rahman skillfully manipulates percussion to enhance the intensity. During Muthu’s fights, urgent beats accompany the action, while the Raayan trio’s entrance is reminiscent of trained assassins in a Tarantino film, with the composer opting for ominous, dull thumps. Notice Rahman’s score during the scene where Durga struggles to save Raayan; observe how Dhanush ensures Dushara’s strength is portrayed without physical inferiority. This showcases that for director Dhanush, actor Dhanush is seen as a performer rather than a star. Hence, Dushara is given an impressive fight sequence where she creatively uses her surroundings for destruction, a departure from the typical victim portrayal of women in such films. Durga, akin to the vengeful goddess she’s named after, embodies relentless determination in the chaotic hospital fight scene, reminiscent of a film centered around her channeling her inner Beatrix Kiddo, moving from one adversary to the next. However, Raayan does have its shortcomings. While the film admirably doesn’t prioritize star power, SJ Suryah’s established stardom may overshadow the character of Sethu, limiting his ability to play to the crowd as he usually does. At times, he seems to push the boundaries of his character more than necessary, potentially straining the believability of his role. This dynamic creates a tension where he shifts between comedic moments and more serious scenes. Despite this, the film presents a compelling narrative that challenges traditional gender roles and offers a refreshing take on female empowerment through characters like Durga.” This revised version should read more naturally and authentically.