Race against time

“Mr X”

– Review

Gautham Surya Pratap (Arya), a highly skilled R&AW operative (code-named “Businessman”) is assigned a critical mission: to recover a missing nuclear device before it is detonated on Indian soil.

The primary antagonist is Amaran Chakravarthy (Gautham Ram Karthik), a rogue R&AW agent (code-named “Lonely Wolf”) who has turned against the agency and is now hiding in Moscow.

As the clock ticks down toward a potential catastrophe during a G20 summit in Chennai, Gautham must navigate a web of double agents, political pressure from R&AW Chief Indra Varma (Manju Warrier), and the legacy of his own father, the enigmatic veteran agent Prakash Pratap (R. Sarathkumar)—the original ‘Mr. X’.

Director Manu Anand demonstrates a clear growth from his debut ‘FIR’. He excels at building tension and grounding the film in reality by referencing actual security threats like honeytraps and power grid hacks. His execution is “racy,” ensuring the 153-minute runtime rarely feels stagnant.

While the “cat-and-mouse” game between Arya and Gautham Karthik is engaging, the emotional stakes sometimes feel “leashed” by a script that prioritizes style and twists over character development.

Arya carries the film with his intense screen presence. His dedication is evident in the much-talked-about underwater action sequence, which he reportedly shot in 20-foot deep, 15-degree Celsius water without thermal gear.

 Playing a rare negative role, Gautham brings a “crackling, wired energy” to the screen. He is a surprise package, proving his versatility as a formidable foil to the hero.

As the R&AW chief, Manju Warrier provides a composed and authoritative presence, anchoring the high-stress war room scenes with grace. R. Sarathkumar lends his trademark authority to the role of Prakash Pratap

Anagha, Athulya Ravi, and Raiza Wilson contribute effectively, though their subplots are somewhat sidelined by the central action. Kaali Venkat provides brief, organic moments of levity.

Cinematographer Arul Vincent delivers stylish, high-contrast visuals, particularly in the international segments shot in Moscow and the gritty underwater opening.

Dhibu Ninan Thomas’ background score is unrelenting and effectively builds the “heart-pounding” atmosphere required for the genre.

Stunt Choreographer Stunt Silva deserves praise for the grounded, brutal, and creative action set-pieces.

Rating: 3.6/5

By Naveen