There are two kinds of pakka entertainment films. One makes you laugh with non-stop jokes. The other keeps you smiling throughout the film, not just with comedy, but with warmth, emotions, and characters that stay with you. ‘Thalaivan Thalaivi’ is the second kind—a feel good entertainer that knows exactly who it’s speaking to and delivers with simplicity and charm.
Every director has their own style, just like that Director Pandiraj stays rooted in his signature style, a Madurai-based family drama filled with dramatic family, food, chaos and of course! ENDLESS BANTER. This time, there’s one more addition—parotta! It’s not just a side dish, it’s almost a supporting character in the film. Don’t be shocked if you walk out of the cinema hall craving for one.
Marriage, Madurai Style & Chaos
The plot is refreshingly simple. Perasi (Nithya Menen) and Aagasa Veeran (Vijay Sethupathi) are a married couple whose relationship gets sour, not because of each other, but because of their families. With the setting rooted in a Madurai household and the conflicts rising from everyday issues, Pandiraj leans into his strength, grounding the story in relatable cultural moments and domestic chaos. 
Even though we’ve seen family disputes on screen (or even in real life before) Thalaivan Thalaivi keeps it lively with witty exchanges, and characters that never stop talking. It’s loud, yes but not overwhelming.
Perasi is the Pillar
Nithya Menen as Perasi is the soul of the film. The way she switches between witty, vulnerable, and downright hilarious feels effortless. Whether she’s throwing a look that says everything or nailing a perfectly timed reaction, she makes Perasi incredibly real and likable. It’s one of the roles where you wonder if anyone else could have done it better.
Her chemistry with Vijay Sethupathi brings spark and softness (most of the time…feisty), and creates moments of laughter.
Aagasa Veeran is a Full Meals
Vijay Sethupathi is in complete form as Aagasa Veeran—a parotta master who’s dramatic, loud, expressive, and funny. But that’s the charm. It’s a character that could’ve easily slipped into a chaotic animated film, but Vijay Sethupathi as usual holds it together with just the right mix of comedy and credibility. We all know he is an amazing actor and Aagasa Veeran’s character just fit him perfectly.
His love for food in the film, especially parotta becomes the highlight of the film as well. Watching him cook Paal Parotta with style while having a marital argument is something only he can pull off. Be prepared to hear him yell often in the film because, Aagasa Veeran is LOUD!
The Supporting Cast Makes It Whole
This is not just a two-person show. The entire cast is packed with performers who give life to even the smallest scenes. Deepa Shankar, Roshini Haripriyan, Yogi Babu, Myna Nandhini, Chemban Vinod, Kaali Venkat, Saravanan, RK Suresh and many more—all of them bring quirks, energy, and comic timing that add texture to the narrative.
Without them, the film wouldn’t be as full-bodied as it is. With them, every scene feels like a chaotic party.
Light Laughs, Heavy Impact
What really works in Thalaivan Thalaivi is how the humour never feels forced. The jokes aren’t trying too hard, they just flow through situations. The films first half and second half is mostly shot in a temple, where every character is seen. In both parts, there wasn’t a moment where you felt bored, BUT! There’s a moment where you question, ‘They’re still fighting?’ Apart from that the film was entirely engaging, it never overshadowed the emotional arc.
The music was composed by Santosh Narayanan and it was the best thing in the film as well. Each song, or background music fit every scene, and emotion perfectly.
Thalaivan Thalaivi isn’t revolutionary, and it doesn’t try to be. It knows exactly what it wants to do–make you laugh, make you feel, and maybe make you a little hungry, and it does that with flair.
Pandiraj delivers a dish that’s familiar but full of flavor. With Nithya Menen and Vijay Sethupathi dishing out top-notch performances and a supporting cast that keeps things vibrant, this one’s a hearty and wholesome meal.
Thalaivan Thalaivi released in theatres worldwide on 25th July 2025, book your tickets and bring your friends and family to watch it! Because it is definitely a must-watch film.
Varnam’s Rating: 8.5/10
Watch The Trailer Here!
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