Movie: Tangaaran
Release Date: August 15, 2024
CBFC Rating: UA
Duration: 2 hours 36 minutes
Starring: Vikram, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Malavika Menon, Pasupathy, Daniel Caltagirone and others
Music: GV Prakash
Camera: Kishore Kumar
Editor: Selva
Producers: KE Gnavel Raja, Pa Ranjith
Written and directed by Pa Ranjith
Known for his powerful performances in a variety of roles, Vikram will be seen in director Pa Ranjith’s Tangaaran. Based on a true story, the film depicts the history of the Kolar gold mines during the British rule, when the British lured the local Parai tribe to extract gold from the Kolar mines. With an impressive trailer and promotional material, Tangaaran has created a buzz among the audience. Produced by Studio Green in association with Neelam Productions, the film released worldwide in Tamil and Telugu on August 15. Let’s start the review.
Story:
Set in the 1870s, the story follows the fearless tribal leader Thangaran (Chiyaan Vikram) as he teams up with the British general Sir Clement (Daniel Caltagirone) to search for gold in the region. However, their quest draws the wrath of Aarathi, a mysterious sorcerer who brings misfortune to the villagers. Thangaran confronts Aarathi and takes it upon himself to mine the gold while helping the British officer. What happens next and how Thangaran leads his tribe to gold is the basis of the story.
Performances:
Vikram’s performance in the challenging role of Thangaran is a testament to his exceptional acting skills and is arguably the best performance of his career. He underwent a major transformation to play a complex and intense character and was completely immersed in the role.
Parvathy Thiruvothu shines as Vikram’s wife, giving her character a natural emotional depth, while Malavika Menon wows audiences with her unglamorous role as a witch and delivers a memorable performance. The other lead actors Daniel Caltagirone and Pasupathi also deliver fine performances in their respective roles. The ensemble cast brings the story to life and makes the film a gripping experience.
Highlights:
Vikram
Emotions
BGM
Action Episodes
Drawbacks:
Gets Slow At Times
Analysis:
Pa Ranjith has crafted a story inspired by the true story of the Kolar Goldfields (KGF), discovered by the British two centuries ago. The film has themes of exploitation and oppression. The first half is about Thangaran’s vision and what motivates him to work with the British officers in the search for gold.
The second half is about what happens after Thangaran convinces the tribes to work in gold mining for the British. Director Pa Ranjith explores how, in addition to gold, the tribes were exploited and socially discriminated against. The story also deals with the consequences of seeking wealth and power for a better future. The film has some impressive action episodes and the revelation at the climax adds further surprise. The film slows down at times and some scenes drag on. A tale of courage, magic and the fight for justice.
Tangalane features some strong performances along with some great background music by GV Prakash that adds to the emotion and intensity. The cinematography by A Kishore Kumar is top notch and captures the wildness. Selva’s editing could have been better. Producer KE Gnavel Raja deserves credit for backing the story with strong content.
Rating: 3/5
Bottom-line: Vikram’s one-man show in a story about courage
