The film
This film simultaneously portrays the lives of a young boy and a gangster. The central theme revolves around how an unexpected friendship forms between them and how it impacts their lives. The narrative is delicate and charming, keeping the audience engaged until the very end.
What works
Vijay Sethupathi's screen presence is excellent, and his performance is a major strength of the film. The chemistry between Lijomol Jose and other actors is very good. The screenplay, direction, and soundtrack effectively elevate the mood of the film. The visuals are captured very naturally and beautifully.
What does not
At certain points in the film, the tonal swings between comedy and drama might feel somewhat dissonant. However, this does not significantly affect the overall flow of the film, as the narrative remains steady throughout.
Bottom line
Baththa is a compelling narrative, an emotional journey with strong performances. This film is a must-watch and will leave audiences contemplating.