Suriya's Latest Film 'Retro': A Misguided Attempt at Innovation

Suriya's Struggle with Challenging Roles

Actors who reach the height of fame often find it difficult to select projects that truly test their abilities. Currently, Suriya is in a position where he should be showcasing his acting skills, yet the scripts he is opting for do not align with his ambitions.

A Flawed Concept

Retro presents itself as a misguided attempt at humor, believing itself to be exceptionally trendy while lacking self-awareness. The premise of this film, which feels reminiscent of a poorly executed Himesh Reshammiya project, seems designed to defy all logic, aiming to shock Suriya's fans, perhaps leaving them in disbelief.

A Distorted Family Dynamic

Writer-director Karthik Subbaraj distorts the typical family dynamics seen in Tamil cinema, introducing a darker and chaotic narrative. During his wedding, Paari (Suriya), who comes from a troubled background, violently injures his adoptive father Thilagan (Joju George), who is portrayed as a character lacking depth.

Violence and Chaos

The conflict between Paari and Thilagan echoes the tension seen in Thug Life, but with a more sinister twist. Joju George's portrayal of Thilagan is far more unscrupulous than Kamal Haasan's character, leaving no space for subtlety in Retro.

A Disjointed Narrative

As the story unfolds, it ventures to an island where Paari's ex-wife, played by Pooja Hegde, is depicted as an animal lover amidst deer hunters. Meanwhile, another subplot features a grotesque gladiator engaging in brutal fights, creating a disjointed viewing experience.

A Confusing Mash-Up

The film feels like a confusing blend of three different narratives, with Suriya's attempt to reconcile with his estranged wife being the only redeeming aspect, unfortunately overshadowed by chaotic and nonsensical elements.

A Missed Opportunity

Ultimately, Retro fails to deliver a coherent message, attempting to be clever and stylish but resulting in a significant misstep for Subbaraj, who previously had a successful track record. The film aspires to explore themes of patriarchal conflict and enduring love, but it devolves into a tasteless spectacle that undermines the star's appeal.

Final Thoughts

Suriya's character in Retro remains devoid of joy, and the audience shares in that sentiment throughout the viewing experience.