Released in 2007, Pokkiri is a Tamil-language action film directed by Prabhu Deva. A remake of the Telugu film Pokiri, this movie stars Vijay in the lead role, with an ensemble cast including Asin, Sayaji Shinde, and others. With its high-octane action sequences, gripping story, and mass appeal, Pokkiri quickly became a hit in Tamil cinema. The movie combines elements of action, drama, and romance, delivering a full-throttle entertainment experience. The film’s success was not just in its action scenes but also in its engaging plot and strong performances. In this review, we will explore what makes Pokkiri stand out and why it remains a beloved film in Tamil cinema.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The plot of Pokkiri revolves around an undercover cop, played by Vijay, who infiltrates a dangerous underworld gang led by a ruthless don. His mission is to bring down the criminal empire from within, but things take an unexpected turn when he falls in love with a woman named Shruti, played by Asin. As the story unfolds, Vijay’s character, who is known for his tough exterior and ruthless actions, begins to show his vulnerable side. The movie mixes action with romance, suspense, and drama, keeping the audience hooked with every twist and turn. As the stakes rise, Vijay’s character must navigate the dangerous world of crime while dealing with his growing feelings for Shruti. The film culminates in a thrilling climax that showcases his determination to complete his mission, no matter the cost.
What’s Good?
Acting
Vijay’s performance in Pokkiri is undoubtedly one of the film’s strongest aspects. Known for his charismatic screen presence, Vijay effortlessly pulls off the role of an undercover cop who is both tough and emotional. His portrayal of a man torn between his duty and love resonates with the audience. His dialogue delivery, body language, and emotional range make him the perfect fit for the character. Asin, who plays the female lead, shines in her role as Shruti, a woman caught between her love for Vijay’s character and the dangerous world he is part of. Her performance adds depth to the romantic angle of the film.
Direction
Prabhu Deva, known for his expertise in choreography and direction, brings his unique style to Pokkiri. His direction ensures that the movie maintains a fast-paced rhythm, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The action sequences are well-executed, with a perfect blend of intensity and drama. Prabhu Deva’s ability to balance the action with emotional moments makes the film more than just an action thriller; it becomes an engaging cinematic experience.
Music
The music of Pokkiri is another standout feature of the film. Composed by Vidyasagar, the soundtrack features energetic tracks that complement the film’s high-energy sequences. The songs, such as “Pokkiri” and “Aathichudi,” became massive hits and contributed significantly to the film’s success. The music enhances the overall mood of the film, whether it’s during an action scene or a romantic moment.
Cinematography
The cinematography of Pokkiri, handled by S. R. Sathish Kumar, is impressive. The camera work captures the intensity of the action sequences while also highlighting the emotional moments between the lead characters. The film’s visual appeal, combined with Prabhu Deva’s direction, creates a dynamic viewing experience. The use of lighting, framing, and camera angles adds to the film’s dramatic tone, making it visually engaging from start to finish.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
One of the major strengths of Pokkiri is its ability to entertain on multiple levels. The film blends action, romance, and suspense in a way that appeals to a wide range of audiences. The performances, particularly by Vijay and Asin, are strong and contribute significantly to the film’s appeal. The action scenes are thrilling and well-choreographed, making them a treat for fans of high-intensity sequences. The music and cinematography further elevate the film, creating a complete cinematic package.
Weaknesses
While Pokkiri is an engaging film, it does have its flaws. Some may argue that the storyline is predictable at times, with certain clichés that are typical of action films. Additionally, the film’s portrayal of violence and crime, while integral to the plot, may not appeal to everyone. Some viewers might find the film’s pacing a bit too fast in certain sections, leaving little room for character development in some cases. Despite these minor drawbacks, the film’s overall entertainment value overshadows these issues.
Target Audience
Pokkiri is a film that will appeal to a wide range of viewers. Fans of action films will appreciate the intense fight sequences and thrilling moments. Those who enjoy romance will connect with the emotional depth of the lead characters’ relationship. The film’s mass appeal also makes it suitable for a broader audience, including families and casual moviegoers. Fans of Vijay will undoubtedly enjoy his performance, while those who enjoy fast-paced, high-energy films will find Pokkiri a satisfying watch.
Box Office Details
Pokkiri was a massive commercial success, both in India and overseas. The film had a production budget of approximately ₹30 crore, a significant sum for a Tamil film at the time of its release. The movie’s worldwide box office collection crossed ₹100 crore, making it one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of 2007. The film’s success was not limited to India; it also performed well in international markets, particularly in countries with large Tamil-speaking populations.
Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Day 1 (Opening Day): ₹5.5 crore (India), ₹1 crore (Overseas)
- Day 2: ₹6 crore (India), ₹1.2 crore (Overseas)
- Day 3: ₹6.5 crore (India), ₹1.3 crore (Overseas)
- Day 4: ₹7 crore (India), ₹1.5 crore (Overseas)
- Day 5: ₹7.5 crore (India), ₹1.6 crore (Overseas)
The film’s consistent performance at the box office was a testament to its widespread appeal. The movie not only attracted a large audience in Tamil Nadu but also garnered attention from Tamil-speaking communities across the globe. Its success further cemented Vijay’s status as one of the leading stars in Tamil cinema.
Recommendation
In conclusion, Pokkiri is an action-packed film that delivers on multiple fronts—great performances, gripping action, and emotional depth. While it has its minor flaws, its overall entertainment value makes it a must-watch for fans of action and romance. Whether you’re a fan of Vijay or just looking for a thrilling cinematic experience, Pokkiri is highly recommended.
Genres:
Action, Thriller
Rating:
6.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Vijay | Tamizh |
| Asin Thottumkal | Shruthi |
| Prakash Raj | Ali Bhai |
| Napoleon | Mohammed Moideen Khan |
| Nassar | Shanmughavel |
| Sriman | Saravanan |
| Mukesh Tiwari | Inspector Govindan |
| Vadivelu | Body Soda |
| Subbaraju | Korattur Loggu |
| Brinda Parekh | Mona |
| Vincent Asokan | Guru |
| Anandaraj | Narasimhan |
| Master Bharath | Shruthi’s younger brother |
| Sriranjini | Lakshmi |
| Ajay Rathnam | Police Inspector |
| G. V. Sudhakar Naidu | Das |
| Dhamu | Juice Shop Owner |
| Vaiyapuri | Tamizh’s Friend |
| Karate Raja | Tamizh’s Friend |
| Rekha | Mrs. Mohammed Maideen Khan |
| Pandu | Lift Operator |
| King Kong | Lorry Driver |
| Besant Ravi | Ali Bhai’s henchman |
| Joy Badlani | |
| Mousumi Saha | |
| Scisor Manogar | Colony Member |
| Sampath Ram | Narasimman’s henchman |
| Japan Kumar | Kannayiram |
| Mumaith Khan | Special Appearance |
| Sridhar | |
| Prabhu Deva | Special Appearance |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
