Released in 2008, Anjathe is a Tamil-language crime thriller directed by Mysskin. The film stars Narain, Prasanna, and Vijayalakshmi in lead roles, blending intense drama with raw emotional conflicts. Set in the underbelly of Chennai, the movie explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. Known for its dark tone and realistic storytelling, Anjathe stands out as a gripping narrative that keeps viewers hooked. With strong performances and a haunting soundtrack, the film remains a notable entry in Tamil cinema’s crime genre. This review dives into its strengths, flaws, and why it still resonates with audiences today.
2. Plot Summary
Anjathe follows Kiruban (Narain) and Bilal (Prasanna), childhood friends whose lives take divergent paths. Kiruban grows up to become an honest police officer, while Bilal spirals into a life of crime. Their bond is tested when Bilal’s illegal activities clash with Kiruban’s duty. As secrets unravel, loyalty and justice collide, leading to a tense showdown. The story avoids black-and-white morality, instead painting its characters in shades of gray. Without spoiling key twists, the film’s climax forces viewers to question the cost of choices made in the name of friendship.
3. What’s Good?
Direction & Screenplay: Mysskin’s direction is the film’s backbone. He crafts a gritty world where every character feels real. The slow-burn pacing builds tension effectively, making the explosive moments hit harder. Scenes like the police station confrontation or Bilal’s internal struggles showcase Mysskin’s knack for balancing action with emotion.
Acting: Narain delivers a career-best performance as Kiruban, portraying his inner conflict with subtlety. Prasanna, as the morally conflicted Bilal, steals the show with his unpredictable energy. Vijayalakshmi, though underused, adds depth to her role as a woman caught in their chaos.
Music & Soundtrack: Sundar C Babu’s background score elevates the film’s mood. The haunting theme music and songs like “Kadhal Vandhale” blend seamlessly into the narrative, amplifying key moments without feeling intrusive.
Cinematography: Mahesh Muthuswami’s camera work captures Chennai’s grimy streets and cramped neighborhoods, adding authenticity. The use of shadows and close-ups during tense scenes creates a visceral experience.
Dialogues: Sharp, impactful lines like “Naalu perukku neeye thagaval” (You’re the answer to four people) linger long after the credits roll. The writing avoids melodrama, keeping conversations grounded.
4. Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- The chemistry between Narain and Prasanna feels authentic, making their fractured friendship believable.
- The film’s moral complexity avoids stereotyping heroes or villains.
- Technical brilliance in cinematography and sound design immerses viewers in its world.
Weaknesses:
- The second half drags slightly, with subplots that could’ve been trimmed.
- Female characters, like Vijayalakshmi’s Ranjani, lack agency and screen time.
- Extreme violence in certain scenes might alienate sensitive viewers.
5. Target Audience
Anjathe appeals to fans of crime dramas and psychological thrillers. Adults who enjoy character-driven stories with moral dilemmas will find it engaging. However, its graphic content makes it unsuitable for children or those preferring lighthearted entertainment.
6. Box Office Details
- Budget: Approximately ₹5 crore (INR).
- Worldwide Collection: Around ₹25 crore, making it a commercial success.
- Day-wise Earnings (First 5 Days):
| Day | India (INR) | Overseas (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | ₹1.2 crore | ₹0.3 crore |
| Day 2 | ₹1.0 crore | ₹0.25 crore |
| Day 3 | ₹0.9 crore | ₹0.2 crore |
| Day 4 | ₹0.8 crore | ₹0.15 crore |
| Day 5 | ₹0.75 crore | ₹0.1 crore |
The film opened strong, with positive word-of-mouth sustaining earnings. Urban centers like Chennai contributed significantly, while overseas markets saw moderate traction.
7. Recommendation
Anjathe is a hard-hitting crime drama that excels in storytelling and performances. Despite minor flaws, its emotional depth and technical finesse make it worth watching. Recommended for viewers who appreciate gritty, thought-provoking cinema.
