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Critics Review
4.00
Fitting Addition To Vetri Maraan's Lineage
The film ends at the peak of a scenario and that�s the best segue one could get into part 2 of the film. A viewer is sure to come back wanting to know more and that�s such a star move. The film through its title suggests that there will be a sequel. The decision seems to be a strategic one as Vetri has so much to say but there�s always so little time. The glimpse we get into Part 2 of the film seemed promising. An important chunk of the overall story he sets to narrate awaits unveil as part 2. Viduthalai Part 1 - A story that ensues to keep you trapped from the get-go. There�s no way you�d (want) escape. (more)
Source: Meera Chithirapavai, MovieCrow
4.00
Vetri Maaran's Viduthalai Part 1 is a potent socio-political portrayal of a struggle for liberation
The climactic scenes are masterfully executed action sequences that smoothly transition into Part 2. The brief glimpses of Part 2 provide a satisfying ending, leaving viewers eager to uncover the truth and politics behind the conflicts. While there are instances of police brutality, Vetri Maaran's portrayal is neutral, showcasing both sides of the issue. The cast is skillfully chosen, with Soori fitting into his role with ease and Vijay Sethupathi delivering a menacing performance as Vaathiyaar with minimal screen time.(more)
Source: Logesh Balachnadran, Times Of India
3.00
Vetrimaaran film is not for the faint-hearted, questions police brutality without fear
Vetrimaaran makes some very interesting casting choices. It�s a masterstroke to cast Gautham Vasudev Menon to play a key role. A filmmaker whose films (in the past) glorified cop killings now plays a cop in a film that exposes police brutality in the most hard-hitting fashion. Vijay Sethupathi as Vaathiyar is a no brainer. Even though he makes an extended cameo appearance, he leaves maximum impact in those scenes. Bhavani Sre is a talent to watch out for and the role of the women, who face the maximum brunt, is what makes Viduthalai disturbing at times.(more)
Source: Haricharan Pudipeddi, Hindustan Times
3.50
Soori's standout performance is the highlight of this film
Viduthalai (Freedom) is a film that is a must-watch because it offers a new cinematic perspective of Vetrimaaran and especially because Soori is outstanding.(more)
Source: Latha Srinivasan , India Today
3.50
Vetrimaaran's film rages against abuse of institutional power
The only bothering aspect of Viduthalai is its repetitive depiction of violence. Even before the triggering climax portion of the film, Vetri shows a lot of violence and we are soon numb. Maybe, that�s the point. Viduthalai is triggering because it is meant to.(more)
Source: Kirubhakar Purushothaman, Indian Express
3.25
Don't miss! Yet another great addition to Vetrimaaran's enviable filmography.
As was the case with Visaranai and Jai Bhim, Vetri Maaran doesn't hold back in showcasing the brutality of the police force. It's raw, real, and gritty. The good thing is that there is more to come in the next part. Viduthalai 1 is yet another great attempt by Vetrimaran spearheaded by a wonderful performance by Soori.(more)
Source: Behindwoods, Behindwoods.com
3.50
'Viduthalai - Part 1' lacks the raw power of 'Visaranai', but it's still a worthy, watchable coming-of-age action-drama
Then again, this "mainstreaming" may be the thing that helps Viduthalai reach a bigger audience than Visaranai did. Given that this is primarily the coming-of-age story of Kumaresan, I wished we had been inside his head a lot more. But then, the entirety of Part 1 is a lead-up to Part 2, and in the version I watched a few days before release, there's an epilogue where every single moment, every single line is a firecracker. Another interesting factoid about Viduthalai. Until now, the two-parter films we have had in India (or maybe even the world) have all been in the fantasy / history zone. This may be the first time a socio-political movie is being served in two installments. We won't be able to gauge the full impact of Viduthalai until we see the second part, but for now, what we have is a well-intentioned film that feels like it needed to cut deeper, far deeper.(more)
Source: Galatta, galatta.com