Iraivan movie review: Jayam Ravi, Nayanthara-starrer is a tiresome mishmash of serial killer films

The movie is centred on a series of gruesome incidents in Chennai where female bodies, naked and mutilated, have been found with smiley faces carved onto them. Let us clarify, it’s not that we lack empathy, but the movie consistently focuses on these distressing scenes, often without considering the real-life victims or general audiences. After a while, it feels like this is all we see and all that the movie is about, and not the investigation.

At the heart of the story are ACPs Arjun (Jayam Ravi) and Andrew (Narain), who embark on a mission to track down the perpetrator responsible for these heinous acts. Tragically, Andrew loses his life in the line of duty, although they do succeed in capturing the killer, Brahma (Rahul Bose). However, this traumatic event prompts Arjun to resign from the police force.

Meanwhile, Brahma escapes custody, and Arjun remains haunted by the images of the deceased women. His PTSD intensifies to the point where he becomes suspicious of any young woman potentially becoming the next victim, including his fiancée Priya (Nayanthara). Consequently, Arjun embarks on a mission to nab Brahma, but during the pursuit, he stumbles upon a shocking revelation. The remainder of the film unfolds as he continues his hunt.

Now, here’s a heads-up for all filmmakers: The fascination people have for true crime needn’t necessarily have the same impact when it’s applied to fiction, particularly in the case of films about serial killers. So, consider exploring new narratives or consider not making such movies at all if your plan is not to break away from the overused formula. Here’s a news flash, it’s become extremely obsolete.

Iraivan adheres to the weary, traditional formula of serial killer movies and ultimately lacks uniqueness or freshness, except for its distinct approach to depicting the murders and its unreserved display of graphic violence. While the film presents a series of victims’ bodies in rapid succession, seemingly attempting to portray itself as a brutally honest depiction of such crimes, it ultimately comes across as a heartless and unsympathetic portrayal of gore.

Meanwhile, the way psychopaths are depicted in the film could also be perceived as romanticised. While the makers’ intention may have been to reveal their true nature, they un/intentionally make them come across as hero-like figures. This portrayal can’t be justified, particularly because the film doesn’t delve into their backgrounds or human aspects, rendering them purely cruel characters with nothing to sympathise with.

At the same time, the film also strongly echoes the themes and style of several earlier movies centred on serial killers as well, including Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016), Chup: Revenge of the Artist (2022), Ratsasan (2018), Anjaam Pathiraa (2020), Memories (2013) and Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu (2006).

Jayam Ravi’s performance of the superficially cold-hearted but empathetic at-heart good cop embodies everything stereotypical and his inability to bring depth to the character makes it appear one-dimensional. Nayanthara, on the other hand, struggles to make her presence felt in the movie due to limited screen time and a poorly developed character.

While Rahul Bose’s acting may be deemed exaggerated, Vinoth Kishan’s performance takes the term “exaggerated” a step further, depicting a character that appears to have been constructed solely from movie references. Though Kishan puts in genuine effort, the very design of the character itself is flawed, and thus, the responsibility lies squarely with the writer-director. Simultaneously, none of the other actors manage to distinguish themselves in this uninspiring production.

The film earns its lone star because of the technical crew who have brought some relief to the experience. Yuvan Shankar Raja’s background score plays a pivotal role in preventing the film from becoming a tedious ride. His tracks align with key moments and add some emotional depth. Hari K Vedantam impresses as the cinematographer, with some striking colour palettes in certain scenes. In addition, Manikanda Balaji’s editing work is also commendable.

In short, Iraivan is not just a forgettable movie; it’s something that is best left unrecalled.

Iraivan movie cast: Jayam Ravi, Nayanthara, Rahul Bose, Narain, Vinoth Kishan
Iraivan movie director: I Ahmed
Iraivan movie rating: 1 star