Petta is a Tamil-language action drama film that was released worldwide on January 10, 2019. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, the movie is a complete package of action, drama, and nostalgia, crafted specifically for Superstar Rajinikanth’s fans.
With an electrifying mix of stylish action sequences, powerful dialogues, and a gripping storyline, Petta takes audiences on an exciting journey, blending mass appeal with emotional depth. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Vijay Sethupathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Simran, Trisha, Bobby Simha, and Sasikumar, the film is a celebration of Rajinikanth’s enduring legacy in Indian cinema.
This review explores the film’s plot, strengths, weaknesses, target audience, and its box office performance, giving you a complete overview of Petta.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
- What’s Good?
- 1. Rajinikanth’s Electrifying Performance
- 2. Karthik Subbaraj’s Direction
- 3. Music & Background Score
- 4. Cinematography & Visuals
- 5. Supporting Cast Performances
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths:
- Weaknesses:
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Day-Wise Earnings (India & Overseas)
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
The movie follows Kaali, a charming and mysterious middle-aged man who takes up a job as a hostel warden at a college in Ooty. While he initially appears to be an easygoing and fun-loving figure, it soon becomes evident that he has a dangerous past.
Kaali’s arrival at the college shakes things up as he befriends students, confronts bullies, and even attracts trouble from unexpected quarters. As events unfold, his real identity and the reason for his presence in the hostel begin to unravel. The story takes a thrilling turn, leading to intense face-offs, betrayals, and emotional moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
While Petta follows a revenge-driven narrative, it is executed with style, humor, and a sense of nostalgia that makes it stand apart from typical action films.
What’s Good?
1. Rajinikanth’s Electrifying Performance
Rajinikanth shines in Petta like never before. The movie revives his signature style, swag, and charisma, which his fans have adored for decades. From his energetic screen presence to his witty one-liners, every scene is designed to showcase Thalaivar in his full glory.
2. Karthik Subbaraj’s Direction
Director Karthik Subbaraj, a self-proclaimed Rajini fan, crafts Petta as a tribute to the superstar. His storytelling balances old-school mass moments with modern filmmaking techniques, making the film feel both nostalgic and fresh.
3. Music & Background Score
Composed by Anirudh Ravichander, the music is another major highlight of Petta. Tracks like “Marana Mass” and “Petta Paraak” became instant chartbusters, while the background score intensifies every action scene, adding to the movie’s overall appeal.
4. Cinematography & Visuals
Tirru’s cinematography adds a stylish and grand feel to the film. The vibrant color palette, slow-motion action sequences, and perfectly framed shots elevate the film’s impact.
5. Supporting Cast Performances
- Vijay Sethupathi as Jithu is excellent, delivering a performance that is both menacing and layered.
- Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays Singaaram with his usual intensity, adding depth to the antagonist’s character.
- Simran and Trisha, though underutilized, bring elegance and emotional depth to their respective roles.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
✔ Rajinikanth in peak form – This is a treat for fans who love his vintage style.
✔ Brilliant direction – Karthik Subbaraj creates a well-balanced entertainer.
✔ Engaging action sequences – Well-choreographed and visually appealing.
✔ Strong background music – Anirudh’s score lifts the film’s intensity.
Weaknesses:
✖ Predictable storyline – The revenge angle is quite common in Tamil cinema.
✖ Slow-paced second half – While the first half is energetic, the second half loses some momentum.
✖ Underutilization of female characters – Simran and Trisha deserved more screen time.
Despite these minor flaws, Petta remains a highly entertaining movie that keeps the audience engaged.
Target Audience
Petta caters to a wide range of viewers:
🎯 Rajinikanth Fans – This movie is a full-fledged celebration of Rajinikanth’s legacy.
🎯 Action Lovers – High-energy fight sequences and stylish action make it a great watch.
🎯 Mass Movie Enthusiasts – Those who love grand entry scenes, punch dialogues, and hero-worship moments will enjoy this.
🎯 Family Audience – Despite the action, the film has emotional moments that make it a good watch for families.
If you love commercial entertainers with a mix of nostalgia and style, Petta is for you!
Box Office Details
| Details | Earnings (INR) |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | ₹160 crores |
| Worldwide Collection | ₹250+ crores |
Day-Wise Earnings (India & Overseas)
| Day | India Collection (INR) | Overseas Collection (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | ₹19 crores | ₹12 crores |
| Day 2 | ₹16 crores | ₹9 crores |
| Day 3 | ₹18 crores | ₹11 crores |
| Day 4 | ₹14 crores | ₹8 crores |
| Day 5 | ₹12 crores | ₹7 crores |
The movie had a fantastic opening, dominating the Tamil Nadu box office and performing exceptionally well in overseas markets like Malaysia, UAE, and the USA.
Recommendation
Petta is a mass entertainer that successfully blends action, style, and nostalgia. Rajinikanth’s performance, along with Karthik Subbaraj’s direction, makes it a must-watch for fans and action lovers.
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
If you’re a Rajinikanth fan, this movie is a no-brainer – go watch it! Even if you’re not, Petta offers solid entertainment with great action, music, and emotions.
Genres:
Drama, Action
Rating:
7.123/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Rajinikanth | Petta ‘Kaali’ Velan |
| Nawazuddin Siddiqui | Singaar ‘Singaaram’ Singh |
| Vijay Sethupathi | Jithu |
| Sananth | Anwar |
| M. Sasikumar | Maalik |
| Bobby Simha | Michael |
| Simran | Mangalam |
| Trisha Krishnan | Saro |
| Megha Akash | Anu |
| Malavika Mohanan | Poongodi |
| J. Mahendran | Rajapandi |
| Muthukumar | Devaaram |
| Guru Somasundaram | District Collector |
| Aadukalam Naren | Micheal’s Father |
| Y. G. Mahendran | College Principal |
| Munishkanth | Chittu |
| Chinni Jayanth | Mangalam’s Patient |
| Vivek Prasanna | Professor |
| Ramachandran Durairaj | Michael’s Father’s Henchman |
| Manikanda Achari | Michael’s Father’s Henchman |
| Deepak Paramesh | Michael’s Friend |
| Adhithya Shivpink | Michael’s friend |
| Thennavan | Thangam |
| Shabeer Kallarakkal | Arjith |
| Gajaraj | Shanmugam |
| Rajkumar | Student |
| Vaibhav | Idhayam Murali (Special Appearance in the song “Aaha Kalyanam” ) |
| Roju | |
| Leo Sivadass | |
| Sathya Prema | |
| Aruvi Bala | |
| Pykara Kaalayan |
How is Our Review?
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