Director Balaji Tharaneetharan stamped his class with his maiden film, the wacky comedy cracker Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, starring Vijay Sethupathi in the lead. The director then went on to do Oru Pakka Kathai, which unfortunately hasn’t seen a theatrical release till now. His third film Seethakathi is hyped and promoted as Vijay Sethupathi’s 25th film.

After the first 40 odd minutes when the film throws focus on Ayya in a very unhurried and detailed manner, the director introduces us to his core concept, which is in the paranormal, fantasy zone. We get intrigued initially, and then the fun begins. Thanks to his really talented bunch of actors like Rajkumar and debutant Sunil (actor Vaibhav’s brother), Balaji succeeds in his experimental attempt.

Seethakaathi, wouldn’t have been this brilliant if not for the cast. Not just Vijay Sethupathi but actors such as TSBK Moulee, as Aadimoolam’s confidante Parasuram, or Bagavathi Perumal, who plays the role of a film director Sundar, are perfect in the roles. How Aadimoolam influences scenes in the film, without even being present is the biggest take-away from this film. An actor needs an impressive role, not screen time to make an impression on audience’s minds.

Composer Govind Vasantha has struck gold again after 96. While Seethakaathi may have only two soundtracks, the background score is stunning. The moment of realisation for Saravanan, an actor who moves from stage plays to films, is a critical point in the film. While Rajkumar as Saravanan captured the emotions perfectly, it is Govind’s music that elevates the situation.

In all, Seethakaathi is yet another showcase of director Balaji Tharaneetharan’s quality as a filmmaker with quirky, original ideas. The film explores many facets of death – physical, emotional, professional – and at each instance also shows that this is not the end.

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