Rathnam (2024)

Summary:

Rathnam is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film written and directed by Hari. The film stars Vishal in the titular role as a volatile henchman who upholds a twisted sense of justice through violence. The plot centers on Rathnam's protective instincts kicking in when he meets Mallika (Priya Bhavani Shankar), a young nurse who bears a striking resemblance to his deceased mother and is being targeted by ruthless land grabbers from Andhra Pradesh. The film is known for its fast-paced, high-octane action sequences and focus on the mother-sentiment theme, following director Hari's signature style. It was released on April 26, 2024, to mixed reviews.

Plot:

Rathnam (Vishal) is a troubled and highly aggressive young man who works as a muscle for MLA Panneer Selvam (Samuthirakani). Rathnam is constantly struggling with his violent impulses, which are often justified by his own sense of morality, such as when he brutally avenges the abuse of a schoolgirl.

His life takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of Mallika (Priya Bhavani Shankar), a nurse traveling to Vellore. Mallika bears an uncanny resemblance to Rathnam's late mother, Loganayagi, triggering a fierce and unshakeable protective instinct in him. When Mallika becomes the target of thugs sent by Beema Rayudu (Murali Sharma), a notorious land grabber, Rathnam appoints himself as her guardian angel.

The central conflict involves Rathnam single-handedly fighting Beema Rayudu and his brothers, who are trying to seize Mallika's family land. As Rathnam defends Mallika across state lines (from Tamil Nadu to Andhra), the bloody rampage leads to the unraveling of a complex family secret. It is revealed that Rathnam's traumatic past and his familial ties are deeply intertwined with the Rayudu family, adding a layer of personal vengeance to his protective mission. The narrative culminates in a series of violent confrontations where Rathnam protects Mallika while finally confronting the truth of his origins.

Cast:

• Vishal as Rathnam (The protagonist, a henchman with a traumatic past).

• Priya Bhavani Shankar as Mallika (A nurse) / Loganayagi (Rathnam's deceased mother - in a dual role).

• Samuthirakani as MLA Panneer Selvam (Rathnam's uncle and mentor).

• Murali Sharma as Beema Rayudu (The main antagonist, a land grabber).

• Yogi Babu as Moorthy (Comic relief).

• Gautham Vasudev Menon as Anbazhagan (Principal Secretary - cameo appearance).

• Hareesh Peradi as Subba Rayudu.

• Jisshu Sengupta as Ranga Rayudu.

Crew:

• Writer & Director: Hari

• Producers: Kaarthekeyen Santhanam, Alankar Pandian, Dil Raju, Sirish, Zee Studios, Stone Bench Films, Invenio Origin.

• Music Director: Devi Sri Prasad

• Cinematography: M. Sukumar

• Editor: T. S. Jay

• Stunt Choreography: Kanal Kannan, Peter Hein, Dhilip Subbarayan, Vicky

Release Info

• Country: India

• Language: Tamil (dubbed and released in Telugu)

• Theatrical Release Date: 26 April 2024

• Running Time: 156 minutes (2 hours 36 minutes)

• Genre: Action, Thriller, Drama, Romance (U/A Certificate)

• OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video (digital premiere: 23 May 2024)

The film marks the third collaboration between director Hari and the production house Stone Bench Films.