Suzhal – The Vortex Story:-
In the latest eight-part web series, “Suzhal,” written by the director duo Pushkar and Gayatri, a gripping investigation unfolds after a minor girl disappears in a small town in Tamil Nadu. While this premise may sound familiar to fans of investigative thrillers, “Suzhal” distinguishes itself with its richly developed character arcs, intricate narrative, and layered conflicts that draw viewers deep into its world. The series keeps audiences guessing until its gut-wrenching and menacing final reveal.
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 17 June 2022 |
| Language | Tamil |
| Genre | Crime, Thriller |
| Creator | Pushkar, Gayatri |
| Cast | Aishwarya Rajesh, Kathir, R. Parthiban, Sriya Reddy |
| Director | Bramma, Anucharan Murugaiyan |
| Writer | Pushkar, Gayatri |
| Production | Wallwatcher Films |
| Certificate | 16+ |
Directed by Bramma of “Kuttram Kadithal” fame for the first four episodes and Anucharan, director of “Kirumi,” for the remaining episodes, “Suzhal” benefits from the seamless collaboration between these talented technicians. Their understanding ensures a cohesive viewing experience that maintains the mood crucial for this genre.
Set in the town of Sambaloor, amidst preparations for the Mayana Kollai ritual—a ceremony tied to the worship of Goddess Angalamman—the story unfolds against the backdrop of a tragic event. A massive cement factory burns down, coinciding with the disappearance of Nila, the 15-year-old daughter of Shanmugam (played by Parthiban), the factory’s union leader.
Sub Inspector Sakkarai (portrayed by Kathir) and Inspector Regina (played by Shriya Reddy) embark on a mission to unravel the mysteries surrounding both the factory fire and Nila’s disappearance. However, their investigation leads to unforeseen consequences, particularly when Regina’s son Adhisayam becomes implicated in the case. As tensions rise, Nandhini (played by Aiswarya Rajesh), Nila’s sister, delves into the town’s buried secrets.
“Suzhal – The Vortex” transcends its genre boundaries, tackling bold topics such as child abuse—a subject rarely explored in Tamil cinema. The series sensitively portrays the trauma experienced by the victim, eliciting empathy from the audience. Through expertly timed revelations of lies and secrets, the tension steadily mounts, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
The screenplay is masterfully crafted, with each character compellingly portrayed on screen. The intersection of mythological elements with reality adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the writers’ ingenuity. Notable scenes, such as Kathir’s investigation involving a deity linked to the missing girl’s case, stand out as highlights of the series.
Parthiban delivers a commendable performance as Shanmugam, portraying the complexities of his character with audacity and emotional depth. His portrayal feels incredibly realistic, and it’s difficult to imagine any other actor handling the role with such ease. While the series may encounter minor pacing issues in the middle sections, the gradual unraveling of mysteries in the latter parts more than compensates for it, keeping viewers engaged and captivated.
One common pitfall of investigative thrillers is the insertion of romantic subplots that distract from the main storyline. However, “Suzhal” manages to avoid this flaw admirably. The romantic sequences are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the overall mood of the series. Kathir’s chemistry with Nivedhitha Sathish, who delivers a commendable performance, is particularly enjoyable to watch. Harish Uthaman’s portrayal of the factory CEO adds another layer of intrigue to the story.
Gopika Ramesh and Aishwarya Rajesh shine in their roles as sisters, navigating the complexities and mysteries surrounding their characters with aplomb. Aishwarya Rajesh’s performance in the final episodes further solidifies her status as a standout talent to watch. Shriya Reddy’s portrayal of Regina is a highlight, marking a memorable comeback for her in Tamil cinema. Her portrayal of the character’s transformation from a bold cop to an emotional mother is both intense and impactful.
Kathir’s character, Sakkarai, initially appears straightforward but gradually reveals layers of depth as the series progresses. Kathir’s performance is outstanding, possibly his best to date, reminiscent of his role in “Pariyerum Perumal.” Each character in the series is intricately crafted, offering surprises and dual shades that keep the audience on their toes. Kumaravel’s portrayal of Parthiban’s brother is also noteworthy.
Credit must be given to the series’ cinematographer, Mukesh, whose work elevates the visuals to stunning heights. The use of color palettes and a wide range of shots effectively captures the essence of the story’s setting. The sleek and fluid editing contributes to the seamless flow of the narrative.
Sam CS’s exceptional background score enhances the intensity of the story, pulling viewers back into its vortex whenever attention wavers. Overall, “Suzhal” is an intense investigative thriller filled with surprises, making it a perfect binge-watch option for the weekend.
In summary, “Suzhal” captivates audiences with its gripping storyline, nuanced characterizations, and thought-provoking themes. By delving into uncharted territory and deftly weaving together various narrative threads, the series delivers a compelling viewing experience that resonates long after the final credits roll.
