Critics Review

3.00

Impressive.

Aadukalam is easily one of Dhanush's best works to date. The first half is sheer joy to watch as events and characters unfold meticulously.G V Prakash's music adds depth to the proceedings. The stunt master deserves kudos too; rarely have fight sequences been this realistically choreographed. Essentially, the script is character driven; and here's where Vetrimaran scores. The dialogues are perfect, the reactions flawless and painstakingly rational. Taapsee's fresh looks, the entire casts' performance make for a very earnest film. (more)

Source: Pavithra Srinivasan, Rediff.com

3.25

Rooster rules.

Vettrimaran deserves all pat for narrating a simple story with intricate and complex emotions in a nice manner. 'Aadukalam' has more substance to chew for the masses. It is strikingly different. If Vettrimaran is the flesh and blood, Dhanush is the soul. His intense performance is the hallmark of the movie. Coming to the script, everything is new in 'Aadukalam'. Dialogues and razor sharp editing (Kishore) besides cool visuals of Velraj adds strength. G V Prakash's catchy musical score is another plus for the film. (more)

Source: Editorial Board, IndiaGlitz.com

3.50

A winning rooster!

The major plus point of Aadukalam is its strength in characterization. Nowhere in the film will you find the characters oscillating. It will be an understatement to say Dhanush steals the show, as the actor has lived the role. G V Prakash's music elevates Aadukalam and intensifies the effect over the audience. Songs are rightly placed and none of them are contrived. Velraj's camera travels to nook and corner of Madurai areas and sucks in the audience to the film.(more)

Source: Editorial Board, Behindwoods.com

3.75

Brilliant, we recommend Aadukalam.

Dhanush and Vetrimaran once again hits the bulls' eye! Their second film together, Aadukalam is gutsy and a brilliant film. Dhanush is simply outstanding, his career best performance. The film's dialogues are sharp and mesh in well with the scenes. Velraj's cinematography is one of Aadukalam's greatest strengths; and even actors in bit roles leave a lasting impression. The narrative style and presentation are truly international. A major plus is GV Prakash Kumar’s background score. (more)

Source: MovieBuzz, Sify.com

4.00

Aadukalam is great.

Director Vetrimaran's Dhanush-Taapsee starrer Aadukalam is an awesome experience! It's a classic example of how a story can be narrated straight with right intensity! No doubt, Aadukalam is one of the best films in Dhanush's career and his 'never-seen-before' performance. Taapsee is apt. Others in the cast do justice to their respective roles. G.V.Prakash Kumar's songs are awesome and they are well-choreographed. Velraj's cinematography is one of the major highlights of the film for its projection of the gravity of emotions and moods. (more)

Source: Baiju N.T., galatta.com

4.25

Must-watch movie of the season.

Stardom sits lightly on Dhanush's shoulders, and he has essayed the role with uninhibited energy. It is easily his best performance to date. Vetrimaaran has extracted top notch performances from nearly every member of the cast. However, Jayabalan has come up with a standout performance. Almost all the songs (by GV Prakash) are excellent and blend with the narrative. Velraj's cinematography and T.Kishore's editing enhance a neatly crafted film.(more)

Source: Karthik, The Hindu