Parasakthi Movie Review: A Fiery Tribute to Tamil Pride and Resistance
Released today, January 10, 2026, during the Pongal festival season, Parasakthi (transl. The Supreme Power) is director Sudha Kongara's ambitious historical political action drama. Produced by Dawn Pictures (Aakash Bhaskaran), the film draws inspiration from the real 1965 Anti-Hindi Imposition agitations in Tamil Nadu—a pivotal chapter in the state's linguistic and cultural identity struggle. Starring Sivakarthikeyan in a powerful lead role, alongside Ravi Mohan (formerly Jayam Ravi), Atharvaa, Sreeleela (Tamil debut), and a strong supporting cast including Basil Joseph, Guru Somasundaram, and Rana Daggubati, the movie clocks in at approximately 162-164 minutes. With a reported budget of ₹150–250 crore, it arrives amid high expectations as one of the major Pongal releases, especially after gaining a relatively clear run due to delays in competing films.Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)Set primarily in the 1960s against the backdrop of the anti-Hindi protests, the narrative follows a group of ordinary yet passionate individuals—students, activists, and common citizens—who rise against the central government's imposition of Hindi, which threatened Tamil identity and sparked widespread unrest, self-immolations, and political upheaval. Sivakarthikeyan portrays a character thrust into the heart of the rebellion, blending personal stakes with collective resistance. The story weaves family dynamics, romance, sacrifices, ethical dilemmas, and high-stakes confrontations, including intense chases and clashes. While rooted in historical events, it adds dramatic flair with action sequences (notably a standout train-top fight) and emotional depth, paying homage to the Dravidian movement's legacy without being overly didactic.The film smartly balances period authenticity with modern sensibilities, avoiding preachiness while highlighting themes of language pride, justice, and sacrifice.PerformancesSivakarthikeyan delivers a career-defining performance. Shedding his usual comedic image, he brings intensity, conviction, and emotional layers to his role as a reluctant yet fierce agitator. His transformation—both physical and emotional—is impressive, with fiery dialogues and mass moments that electrify the screen. Fans will appreciate his grounded heroism, while critics note his ability to carry the film's emotional weight.Ravi Mohan adds gravitas as a key antagonist (a ruthless officer hunting protesters), creating palpable tension. Atharvaa shines in a pivotal supporting role, bringing authenticity to the activist archetype. Sreeleela impresses in her Tamil entry with a spirited performance, adding heart to the romantic and familial arcs. The ensemble, including Guru Somasundaram and Basil Joseph, contributes effectively to the period vibe.Technical AspectsSudha Kongara's direction is confident and ambitious. She crafts a visually immersive 1960s world with meticulous period details—costumes, sets, and locations feel lived-in and authentic. Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran captures the era's unrest with sweeping shots, dynamic action, and intimate emotional beats. G.V. Prakash Kumar's background score is a standout: fiery, pulsating, and emotionally resonant, perfectly amplifying the rebellion's energy. Songs are well-integrated, though some feel slightly lengthy.The action choreography (especially large-scale protest sequences) is gripping, though a few moments lean into formulaic heroism. Editing keeps the 2.5+ hour runtime mostly taut, with the second half building to a powerful climax.Strengths and WeaknessesWhat Works:
Final VerdictParasakthi is a sincere, ambitious effort to revisit a defining moment in Tamil history through engaging cinema. Sudha Kongara succeeds in making a socio-political story feel personal and cinematic, with Sivakarthikeyan proving his mettle in a serious role. It's not flawless—the runtime and occasional tonal shifts hold it back—but it packs emotion, spectacle, and relevance that make it a worthy theatrical watch. For those interested in Tamil pride, historical drama, or Sivakarthikeyan's evolution, this is a must-see. It may not rewrite the genre, but it ignites pride and sparks discussion.
Rating: 3.5/5
A solid, stirring period drama that honors its roots while delivering entertainment. Go for the big-screen intensity—especially if you're in Tamil Nadu this Pongal.
Released today, January 10, 2026, during the Pongal festival season, Parasakthi (transl. The Supreme Power) is director Sudha Kongara's ambitious historical political action drama. Produced by Dawn Pictures (Aakash Bhaskaran), the film draws inspiration from the real 1965 Anti-Hindi Imposition agitations in Tamil Nadu—a pivotal chapter in the state's linguistic and cultural identity struggle. Starring Sivakarthikeyan in a powerful lead role, alongside Ravi Mohan (formerly Jayam Ravi), Atharvaa, Sreeleela (Tamil debut), and a strong supporting cast including Basil Joseph, Guru Somasundaram, and Rana Daggubati, the movie clocks in at approximately 162-164 minutes. With a reported budget of ₹150–250 crore, it arrives amid high expectations as one of the major Pongal releases, especially after gaining a relatively clear run due to delays in competing films.Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)Set primarily in the 1960s against the backdrop of the anti-Hindi protests, the narrative follows a group of ordinary yet passionate individuals—students, activists, and common citizens—who rise against the central government's imposition of Hindi, which threatened Tamil identity and sparked widespread unrest, self-immolations, and political upheaval. Sivakarthikeyan portrays a character thrust into the heart of the rebellion, blending personal stakes with collective resistance. The story weaves family dynamics, romance, sacrifices, ethical dilemmas, and high-stakes confrontations, including intense chases and clashes. While rooted in historical events, it adds dramatic flair with action sequences (notably a standout train-top fight) and emotional depth, paying homage to the Dravidian movement's legacy without being overly didactic.The film smartly balances period authenticity with modern sensibilities, avoiding preachiness while highlighting themes of language pride, justice, and sacrifice.PerformancesSivakarthikeyan delivers a career-defining performance. Shedding his usual comedic image, he brings intensity, conviction, and emotional layers to his role as a reluctant yet fierce agitator. His transformation—both physical and emotional—is impressive, with fiery dialogues and mass moments that electrify the screen. Fans will appreciate his grounded heroism, while critics note his ability to carry the film's emotional weight.Ravi Mohan adds gravitas as a key antagonist (a ruthless officer hunting protesters), creating palpable tension. Atharvaa shines in a pivotal supporting role, bringing authenticity to the activist archetype. Sreeleela impresses in her Tamil entry with a spirited performance, adding heart to the romantic and familial arcs. The ensemble, including Guru Somasundaram and Basil Joseph, contributes effectively to the period vibe.Technical AspectsSudha Kongara's direction is confident and ambitious. She crafts a visually immersive 1960s world with meticulous period details—costumes, sets, and locations feel lived-in and authentic. Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran captures the era's unrest with sweeping shots, dynamic action, and intimate emotional beats. G.V. Prakash Kumar's background score is a standout: fiery, pulsating, and emotionally resonant, perfectly amplifying the rebellion's energy. Songs are well-integrated, though some feel slightly lengthy.The action choreography (especially large-scale protest sequences) is gripping, though a few moments lean into formulaic heroism. Editing keeps the 2.5+ hour runtime mostly taut, with the second half building to a powerful climax.Strengths and WeaknessesWhat Works:
- Powerful recreation of a historic movement with relevance to contemporary identity debates.
- Sivakarthikeyan's committed performance and mass-appeal moments.
- GV Prakash's electrifying score and impactful dialogues.
- Emotional core—family bonds, sacrifices, and the cost of resistance—lands strongly.
- Grand scale and production values justify the big-screen experience.
- Some portions, particularly romantic tracks and early buildup, feel laggy or predictable.
- A few dialogues and sequences risk feeling propagandistic (especially in Telugu markets, where certain lines drew backlash).
- The film's political undertones (tied to current Tamil Nadu dynamics) may polarize audiences.
- Mixed early reactions: While many call it a "power peak" and potential blockbuster, some first-half reviews label it dull before picking up.
Final VerdictParasakthi is a sincere, ambitious effort to revisit a defining moment in Tamil history through engaging cinema. Sudha Kongara succeeds in making a socio-political story feel personal and cinematic, with Sivakarthikeyan proving his mettle in a serious role. It's not flawless—the runtime and occasional tonal shifts hold it back—but it packs emotion, spectacle, and relevance that make it a worthy theatrical watch. For those interested in Tamil pride, historical drama, or Sivakarthikeyan's evolution, this is a must-see. It may not rewrite the genre, but it ignites pride and sparks discussion.
Rating: 3.5/5
A solid, stirring period drama that honors its roots while delivering entertainment. Go for the big-screen intensity—especially if you're in Tamil Nadu this Pongal.
