Bththa Movie Review

Produced by Atlee and directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, Patta features Vijay Sethupathi, Lijo Mol, Arjun Chidambaram and others in prominent roles.

Set in 1980s Chennai, the film revolves around Patta, a notorious local gangster feared by everyone in the neighbourhood. With his involvement in illicit liquor, violence and other criminal activities, Patta has built such a terrifying reputation that people even believe he keeps a lion inside his house. But an unexpected incident lands Patta (Vijay Sethupathi) in trouble. What the problem is and how he manages to overcome it forms the rest of the story.

As usual, Vijay Sethupathi carries the film almost like a one-man army. Whether he is swaggering around as an intimidating gangster or struggling through moments of intense emotion, there is little left to say about his acting prowess. He owns the character of Patta completely.

Lijo Mol leaves an impression with her graceful beauty and homely appearance. But beyond everyone else, it is the young boy who plays Sabari who truly takes us by surprise. He commands the screen for more than 15 minutes with his performance. The scene where he keeps turning around and crying is certain to leave the audience emotional.

When we hear the name Balaji Tharaneetharan, Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom is perhaps the first film that comes to mind. Several moments in the first half of Patta carry traces of that familiar humour and sensibility.

Production designer Kannan S. and cinematographer Selvakumar have recreated the world of the 1980s beautifully. Kalaivanan’s editing keeps the narrative moving smoothly without letting it drift away from the story. Sai Abhyankkar’s Chellamae Magalae is a beautiful song. However, the film still seems to be missing that extra spark.

Ultimately, Patta reminds us that having everyone fear us is not what life is about. Understanding who we truly are is what matters. It is this idea, and the way it has been brought to the screen, that makes Patta a film that is difficult to ignore.