Vaazhai Early Review: Mari Selvaraj's Movie Is Hard Hitting With Powerful Performances And Storytelling

Vaazhai Early Review: Vaazhai is an upcoming Tamil children's drama film, written, co-produced, and directed by Mari Selvaraj. The film features newcomers Ponvel M. and Raghul R. in lead roles, alongside Kalaiyarasan and Nikhila Vimal. Vaazhai is set for a worldwide theatrical release on August 23, 2024.

Following the premiere of the movie Vaazhai, the X (formerly Twitter) handle Kollywod Updates shared a glowing review, rating the film 4.5 out of 5. The post praised the movie, which is based on a true story revolving around two schoolboys in a village, as hard-hitting. The review described Nikhila Vimal's performance as impressive, Kalaiyarasan's as good, and Dhivya Dhurai's as outstanding. J. Satishkumar was commended for his apt role, while Santhosh Narayanan's music received applause. The handle also lauded director Mari Selvaraj, calling Vaazhai another of his best films.

Vaazhai began production in November 2022, marking director Mari Selvaraj's fourth feature film after Paraiyerum Perumal, Karnan, and Maamannan. This film is the third collaboration between Mari Selvaraj and cinematographer Theni Eswar, following their work on Karnan and Maamannan. It also represents Nikhila Vimal's first project with Mari Selvaraj. The film was extensively shot across various locations in Tamil Nadu, including Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli.

Vaazhai Cast and Crew

Directed by Mari Selvaraj, Vaazhai is a children's film featuring a cast of child artists in the lead roles, including Ponvel M and Raghul R. The movie also stars Kalaiyarasan, Nikhila Vimal, J. Satish Kumar, Dhivya Duraisamy, Janaki, Priyanka Nair, and Nivedita Rajappan. Produced by Sajith Sivanandan, Divya Mari Selvaraj, Mari Selvaraj, and Dhilip Subbarayan, under the banners Navvi Studios, Disney+ Hotstar, and Farmer's Master Plan Production, the film's cinematography is handled by Theni Eswar. The music is composed by Santhosh Narayanan, with lyrics by Yugabharathi. Art direction is by Kumar Gangappan, stunt choreography by Dhilip Subbarayan, and dance choreography by Sandy Master.

The director worked on the film's story for a long time, and it is reportedly said to be one of Mari Selvaraj's best works. His last film, Maamannan, was a huge success. Directed by Mari Selvaraj, the political thriller starred actor and producer Udayanidhi Stalin, Vadivelu, Fahadh Faasil, and Keerthy Suresh in the lead roles.

As per reports, Mari Selvaraj's next project after Vaazhai will feature Dhruv Vikram in a sports drama. In the film, Dhruv is set to portray a kabaddi player, with production being handled by Pa Ranjith.