Vidudala Part 1

 

I recently watched Viduthalai Part 1. I know I’m a bit late, considering Part 2 is already out in theaters. For some reason, I’ve always been hesitant about watching Vetrimaaran’s movies. I think it’s because his films feel so raw and realistic, often reflecting the struggles of Tamil people, which I can’t always relate to. That said, I did enjoy his blockbuster Asuran.

Anyway, with all the buzz surrounding Viduthalai Part 2 on various forums, I decided to give Part 1 a try. I have to say, I regret not watching this earlier, at least when it released on OTT. It’s quintessential Vetrimaaran—gritty, intense, and realistic—but never boring. The film is deeply engaging from start to finish.

The story begins with Kumaresan, a newly recruited constable tasked with assisting a police operation to capture Perumal, the leader of an extremist group called the People’s Army (Praja Dalam in Telugu). The operation, named “Ghost Hunt,” is aimed at suppressing the People’s Army, which opposes a mining company trying to exploit a hilly region in Tamil Nadu. The People’s Army resembles the Naxalite-Maoist groups that were prominent in Andhra Pradesh and nearby states during that time. They resist industries encroaching on common people’s lands, and the parallels with real-life events are striking.

It’s remarkable to see Soori, known primarily as a comedian in his earlier films, deliver such a convincing performance. He completely disappears into the role of Kumaresan, making it hard to associate him with his comedic past.

One of the film’s standout sequences is the depiction of a train derailment incident, which leaves many injured. The government attributes the attack to the People’s Army. This sequence alone captures Vetrimaaran’s trademark style and attention to detail. The train derailment is depicted with stunning realism, enhanced by some breathtaking drone shots that offer a bird’s-eye view of the wreckage. I couldn’t help but wonder about the budget for this episode—it feels so lifelike, almost on par with Hollywood standards. This scene hooked me completely.

The rest of the film follows Kumaresan’s journey, highlighting his determination to help common people, even when it means defying higher-ranking officers. His defiance lands him in trouble, including being relegated to demeaning tower duty. I admired Kumaresan’s moral resolve—despite being urged by colleagues to apologize to his superiors, he refuses, standing by his belief that he did the right thing. This unwavering sense of justice drives his character and sets him apart.

Kumaresan also forms a bond with Tamilarasi (“Pappa”), whom he plans to marry. The actress playing Tamilarasi is unrecognizable outside the role, thanks to her natural makeup and authentic portrayal of a rural woman. This attention to casting and character authenticity is a hallmark of Vetrimaaran’s work, ensuring that actors’ real-life personas never overshadow their on-screen roles.

The film’s locations are incredibly realistic, shot in what seems to be remote hilltop villages. Some scenes, especially the interrogation sequences, are deeply disturbing. The police brutality depicted—such as stripping women naked and subjecting them to relentless torture—is harrowing to watch. These moments highlight Vetrimaaran’s commitment to portraying uncomfortable truths, even if they are tough to stomach. At the same time, he ensures these scenes are woven into the narrative seamlessly, keeping the audience engaged. While such sequences might not sit well with all viewers, particularly in Telugu audiences, they showcase the harsh realities of abuse and power dynamics.

The climax is gripping and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It reminded me of the iconic Pablo Escobar rooftop capture scene as Kumaresan leaps between rooftops to guide his team in capturing Perumal, played by Vijay Sethupathi. While Vijay Sethupathi doesn’t have much screen time in Part 1, it’s clear he plays a pivotal role in Part 2.

The background score by Ilaiyaraaja perfectly complements the film. Vetrimaaran’s decision to choose Ilaiyaraaja, who was at the peak of his career in the 1980s, adds authenticity to the setting. The music is unique and enhances the period feel. Velraj’s cinematography is excellent, with drone shots effectively capturing the vastness and ruggedness of the landscapes. The supporting cast also delivers commendable performances.

Overall, Viduthalai Part 1 is a typical Vetrimaaran film with an engaging screenplay and brutal, gritty scenes that are hard to watch. But it is a must-watch for any movie lover. My rating: 8.5/10.