Manashimaya
Tamil cinema’s masala movie-making genre has evolved significantly over the years, but the allure of a classic Hari film like “Rathnam” still holds fascination in 2024. Director Hari remains steadfast in his commitment to his signature style, refusing to deviate from his tried-and-tested tropes, even as contemporary filmmakers explore new territories.
In “Rathnam,” Hari endeavors to reintroduce audiences to his distinctive brand of masala action cinema. Despite his best efforts, the film struggles to break free from the shackles of its outdated narrative framework. While Hari’s dedication to his craft is evident, the storyline feels stuck in a bygone era, failing to resonate with modern audiences.
The film revolves around Rathnam (Vishal), raised by local rowdy Panneerselvam (Samuthirakani) after saving his life as a teen. As Rathnam grows up to become Panneer’s trusted aide, he finds himself embroiled in a web of intrigue and violence when he crosses paths with Mallika (Priya Bhavani Shankar) and her father, Vedha Nayagam (Jayaprakash).
While Vishal delivers a convincing performance as the quintessential Hari hero, wielding a sickle and facing off against the nefarious Rayudu brothers (Murali Sharma, Hareesh Peradi, Muthu Kumar), the film’s narrative fails to offer anything groundbreaking. Despite Hari’s attempts to adapt his tropes to suit modern sensibilities, “Rathnam” feels like a relic of the past, trapped in the conventions of early 2000s Tamil cinema.
Ultimately, “Rathnam” serves as a reminder of Hari’s enduring legacy as a filmmaker who paved the way for masala action cinema in Tamil Nadu. While the film may appeal to die-hard fans of the genre, it falls short of leaving a lasting impact on contemporary audiences. As Tamil cinema evolves, one can only hope filmmakers like Hari will embrace change and innovation, rather than clinging to outdated formulas.