The Spirit of Identity

“Parasakthi”

Movie Review

The story is set in 1960s and follows Chezhiyan (Sivakarthikeyan), a peace-loving railway employee who prioritizes his family’s stability. 

His world is contrasted by his younger brother, Chinnadurai (Atharvaa), a fiery college student and activist deeply involved in the burgeoning student-led revolution against systemic linguistic oppression.

The brothers find themselves on opposite sides of a brewing storm when a relentless police officer, Thirunaadan (Ravi Mohan/Jayam Ravi), is tasked by the government to quell the protests using any means necessary. 

A personal tragedy eventually forces Chezhiyan to abandon his neutrality, transforming him into a revolutionary leader. The film explores the cost of conviction and the power of collective identity.

Director Sudha Kongara’s strength lies in her ability to make a “period piece” feel relevant. She captures the 1960s aesthetic without it feeling like a museum exhibit, focusing instead on the raw emotions of the student movement.

The film balances a serious political manifesto with family drama. While the first half focuses on character building and the ideological rift between the brothers, the second half leans into the tension of the revolution.

In his 25th film, Sivakarthikeyan delivers one of his most restrained and mature performances. Moving away from his “boy-next-door” comedy image, he excels in the second half as his character undergoes a psychological shift, carrying the weight of the revolution with a quiet intensity.

Playing the antagonist, Ravi Mohan is a standout. He portrays the “cold” authority figure with chilling efficiency, serving as a formidable foil to the protagonist’s emotional journey.

Atharvaa brings high energy and serves as the catalyst for the story’s major events. His chemistry with Sivakarthikeyan as brothers is the emotional anchor of the film.

In her Tamil debut, Sreeleela brings a fresh presence. While her role as Ratnamala is lighter and leans toward the romantic subplots, she provides a necessary human connection amidst the political chaos.

Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran’s work is exceptional. He uses a distinct color palette for the Madras and Madurai schedules, capturing the 1960s era with a gritty, yet grand visual style.

G V Prakash’s background score is a major asset, heightening the tension during the protest sequences. While the songs are integrated into the narrative, the “pre-interval” and climax scores are what truly resonate.

Rest of the technical aspects of the movie are helpful in elevating the movie altogether. 

Rating: 4.5/5

By Naveen