'Viduthalai Part 2' gives a wide description of Perumal and his political group that is aligned towards extreme left politics.
A poster of the film 'Viduthalai Part 2. (X)
Viduthalai Part 2 was highly anticipated, since the release of the first part in 2023. The Vetrimaran directorial spoke of caste oppression and other issues in a hard-hitting manner.
The second part focused on the character of Perumal Vaathiyar played by Vijay Sethupathi. In the first part, his role came towards the end and was incomplete.
Like other Vetrimaran films, Viduthalai Part 2 focuses heavily on delivering messages, with dialogues that empower oppressed people by emphasising strong, and impactful ideas, creating a long-lasting impact, which stays with the audience long after the film is finished.
The first part of Viduthalai centred on Soori’s character Kumaresan’s life as a police officer, highlighting the oppression faced by marginalised communities. The second part shifts focus to Perumal’s ideology.
A still from the film ‘Viduthalai Part 2’. (Supplied)
Viduthalai Part 2 gives a wide description of Perumal and his political group that is aligned towards extreme left politics.
In the first part, Perumal was being captured by the police. However, the second part acts more like a prequel, delving into Perumal’s early life, his entry into the political movement, and events that led to a fight against the system.
The story unfolds through Perumal’s words, as he is being transferred by the police from one location to another. On the other hand, Kumaresan also writes a letter to his mother describing the events in Perumal’s life before and after his captivation.
The movie focuses on Perumal, his relationship with communist leader RK (Kishore), and their fight against caste oppression, the feudal system, and government forces.
Perumal’s transformation into Karuppan at the sugar factory and his romantic relationship with Mahalakshmi (Manju Warrier) are especially well-explored.
Vetrimaran directorial ‘Viduthalai Part 2’. (X)
Mahalakshmi is from a feudal family, who works for the downtrodden and falls in love with Perumal. Their relationship is given importance, accompanied by a song composed by Illaiyaraaja. However, the film does not reveal what ultimately happens to her.
Coming to Perumal’s backstory, his early life as a school teacher, Vathiyar, who later takes up arms, is thoroughly explained, and the intense action sequences are shot effectively.
The fight against injustice continues throughout the film, and the climax is emotionally complex. Perumal’s message to his comrades about staying strong resonates deeply. Towards the end, Kumaresan’s frustration with higher officials also gets attention. The police jeep scene also leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
Viduthalai 2 is a technically sound film, with Illaiyaraaja’s music playing a prominent role. The cinematography by R Velraj is outstanding, particularly in capturing the forest and village landscapes, as well as excelling in the action sequences.
The editing by R Ramar also contributes to the film’s impact, with many scenes standing out due to its crisp pacing. Notable scenes include the gunshot sequences towards the end and the opening shots.
Vetrimaran reportedly shot many scenes, and he has mentioned the process was exhausting. The team’s hard work is evident in every frame, making it a truly hard-hitting film.
Vijay Sethupathi in ‘Viduthalai Part 2’. (X)
Viduthalai 2 primarily focuses on Vijay Sethupathi’s portrayal of Perumal, a role he excels in. His mannerisms as both young Perumal and the older, captured man are compelling, making this character a standout in his career.
Soori, as Kumaresan, has a smaller role compared to the first part, but his presence, especially in the climax, leaves a strong impact.
Manju Warrier is a perfect choice as Perumal’s partner, Mahalakshmi. Her short hair at the beginning and the explanation for it are convincing. However, their family life could have been explored further.
Rajiv Menon, playing a top government official, took on a different role. He handled it well, adding lighter moments to the film.
Kishore, as the revolutionary leader, also delivered a solid performance. Gautam Vasudev Menon, as a police cop, impressed, as did Anurag Kashyap in his brief role as an activist leader. Chetan, Karunas, and others also contributed significantly to the film.
Viduthalai Part 2 is a hard-hitting film with stellar performance by Vijay Sethupathi, Manju Warrier and others. The movie conveys the struggle of oppressed people in detail making it a compelling watch.
(Views expressed here are personal, edited by Sumavarsha)
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