Jailer review: Rajinikanth is at his best in imperfect yet engaging action comedy

Filmmaker Nelson Dilipkumar gave strong proof of his abilities as a storyteller with Kolamaavu Kokila (2018) and Doctor (2021), which emerged as big hits at the box office. Many expected Beast (2022) to be his one-way ticket to the big leagues as it marked his first collaboration with Vijay. The film, however, proved to be a failure. This raised doubts about his ability to direct a star of Thalapathy’s stature and essentially transformed his latest film Jailer into a make-or-break affair for him. So, was Nelson able to redeem himself with the Rajinikanth-led biggie, which opened in theatres on August 10?

2 things you need to know

• Jailer is produced under the Sun Pictures banner.
• It is directed by Nelson Dilipkumar.

Hot take

Jailer piqued the curiosity of fans as the trailer suggested that the film, much like Nelson’s previous releases, would feature a liberal dose of dark humour. This would be  Thalaivar’s first tryst with the genre. In other words, the Sun Pictures-backed biggie had the potential to help Rajinikanth reinvent himself at 72. And, it does not disappoint on this front. Nelson uses the first half to showcase his expertise in black comedy. The second half, on the other hand, serves as a grand celebration of the brand Rajinikanth.

Does Jailer live up to the hype?

Jailer revolves around Tiger Muthuvel Pandian (Rajinikanth), a happily retired jailer who enjoys spending time with his son (Vasanth Ravi) and grandson. His world is turned upside down when his son disappears under mysterious circumstances with many assuming that he’s dead. Tiger soon takes matters into his own hands and decides to kill those he feels are behind the act. He soon runs into Varman (Vinayakan). This sets the stage for a series of pulsating twists and turns.

Rajinikanth in a new avatar

Rajinikath’s larger-than-life reel image has often overshadowed its nearly impeccable comic timing. He showcased this side quite wonderfully in Thillu Mullu (1981) quite early in his career. Fans got glimpses of the same, decades later, in the police station scene from Kaala (2018). Jailer gives him the ideal platform to unleash his impeccable comic timing, especially in the first half. The whistle sequence is a case in point. His expressions and 'bindass' body language make it a treat for the audience. His interactions with his reel grandson too make Jailer more enjoyable. 

(Rajinikanth plays a retired cop in Jailer. Image | Sun Pictures/X)

They are enjoyable and touching in equal measure. Rajinikanth’s scenes with Yogi Babu too are a delight to watch as the comedy actor holds its own against Rajinikanth. The makers need to be lauded for coming up with engaging light-hearted sequences without resorting to cheesy one-liners or vulgarity. 

Pre-interval scene is unmissable

It is, however, the pre-interval sequence that proves to be the highlight of Jailer’s first half. Eerie, unnerving, and oddly satisfying in equal measure. Rajinikanth’s unmatchable swag elevates this innovative sequence to new heights, helping it connect with the masses. The nonchalant manner in which Tiger prepares his family for the violence to follow is goosebumps-inducing, to say the least. 

Celebration of brand Superstar

Jailer’s second half serves as a good star vehicle for Rajinikanth. The flashback sequence, which features him as a ruthless cop, serves as a firm reminder of why Rajinikanth emerged as one of Tamil cinema’s greatest villains in the early stages of his career. It is also a delight to see him with Jackie Shroff, who worked with him all the way back in Uttar Dakshin (1987).

The second half, however, loses its way when the focus shifts to Sunil and Tamannaah Bhatia’s characters. While these sequences aren’t unwatchable, they lack recall value.  Jailer, luckily, soon comes back on track after a major reveal. This sets the stage for a 'paisa vasool' climax that features action, emotions, and of course hero elevation sequences. The final scene in particular may leave fans teary-eyed. 

Rajinikanth at his stylish best

Coming to the performances, Rajinikanth is the heart and soul of Jailer. The film gives him ample scope to unleash his trademark mannerisms. And, each one of them packs a punch. His dialogues do justice to his image. Watch out for the black sheep reference, which brings back memories of Chitti from Enthiran (2010). 

(Rajinikanth's swag is a highlight of Jailer. Image | Sun Pictures/X)

Ramya Krishnan is burdened with a role that does not do justice to her talent. Jailer, most definitely isn’t another Padayappa (1999) for her. Tamannaah makes her presence felt in the -the peppy Kaavaalaa track with her glamorous screen presence. She, however, does not have much to do otherwise. 

Strong supporting cast further powers Jailer

Shiva Rajkumar and Mohanlal shine in small but pivotal roles. The background score builds an aura around their characters and does justice to their reel image. Jackie Shroff and Vinayakan are brilliant in their respective roles. The Malayalam actor’s expressions in a crucial scene in particular are impeccable. Sunil’s comedy falls flat as he is burdened with a one dimensional character. The supporting cast is serviceable. The editing, however, could have been better as Jailer drags at certain points.

Watch it or skip it?

Jaler is highly entertaining and makes for a solid watch for a variety of reasons. To begin with, this is the rare Superstar film that uses Rajinikanth's acting abilities and star power in equal measure. It is also a delight to watch him sharing screen space with Shivanna and Mohanlal, two celebrated stars in their own right. The emotional climax is the icing on the cake. 

The Bottomline

Jailer ends up being that rare film that delivers the best of both worlds. The first half, featuring black humour, is a celebration of Nelson’s trademark style of storytelling. The post-interval portions, on the other hand, serve as a tribute to everything that makes Rajinikanth the ‘super one’.

Rating: 3.5/5