Ashwath Marimuthu’s Latest Film Opens to Positive Buzz Despite NEEK Competition

Ashwath Marimuthu’s latest directorial venture, Dragon, featuring Pradeep Ranganathan, hit theaters this Friday.

The film faced stiff competition from Dhanush’s Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam (NEEK) but garnered favorable reviews from fans on social media.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) praised the film, writing, “Kudos to Ashwath Marimuthu, Superb Writing. Pradeep – A new hero is born, Gud Perf. Myskin, GVM, Anupama Pakka. Harshath rocks. Leon’s BGM & songs supports. Title Idea, Interview Scene, Premam, Birthday seq r ROFL. Thoroughly Engaging & Entertaining. WORTH Watch!”

Another comment compared the two films, stating, “Dragon >>> Neek.” Many viewers felt that Dragon delivered an enjoyable experience.

A Slow Start but an Engaging Journey

Some fans noted that the film takes time to build momentum but ultimately offers an engaging experience.

One fan wrote, “#Dragon half way through. Takes time to pick up but once the story kicks in, Ashwath takes you on an engrossing experience with a fresh treatment. The film nowhere resembles DON, and if the second half clicks, this will do wonders at the BO. A well-written film so far.”

The film’s producer, Archana Kalpathi, also received appreciation from fans, with one stating, “Archana akka hit streak continues.”

A Responsible and Thoughtful Entertainer

One viewer described Dragon as a “harmless entertainer” and commended the director for being careful about the film’s messaging:

“#Dragon – An Ashwath Marimuthu Winner!! This is a very responsible, good, harmless entertainer where the creator @Dir_Ashwath has really been very careful about what he wants the audience to take away from this film.” Another user remarked that Dragon was another success for the director after Oh My Kadavule.

Mixed Reactions and Criticism

Despite the praise, some viewers felt that NEEK was superior. A dissatisfied viewer stated, “90% of reviewers are giving positive reviews for #NEEK. #Dragon same old formula and cringe acting by Pradeep. Still, he is in Love Today mode.”

Another viewer expressed disappointment with the film’s first half and hoped the second half would improve: “Today’s loosu koo decision I took.. First half not done yet.. Just hoping someone will save second half with something good to offer. #Dragon.”

However, some believed that Dragon would still find success despite these criticisms.

One review read, “#Dragon Movie and content-wise #Don >>> #Dragon although youth will enjoy this as it has liplock, double meaning, and cringe comedies. This has more meme-worthy and entertaining scenes. #PradeepRanganathan improved his acting a bit since Love Today. Will be a decent hit!”

Dragon: Story and Performances

Dragon follows the story of Ragavan, played by Pradeep Ranganathan, a reckless and impulsive college student.

Facing academic setbacks and heartbreak, his desire for wealth and power leads him down a dangerous path of fraud. However, his actions soon spiral beyond his control.

The film features a stellar supporting cast, including Anupama Parameswaran, Kayadu Lohar, George Maryan, Indumathy Manikandan, KS Ravikumar, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Mysskin, VJ Siddhu, and Harshath Khan.

Audience and Critics’ Verdict

On February 21, X users flooded the platform with reviews praising the film’s entertainment value and emotional depth.

One user rated it 4/5 stars, stating, “A super entertaining film guaranteed with comedy, humor, and a fantastic interval, leading to a fully satisfying climax – sure-shot blockbuster material.”

Another review emphasized the emotional impact of the film’s final act: “#DragonReview: @pradeeponelife performance peaked – Strong and Emotional storytelling – Excellent Performances – Powerful Writing – Effective BGM – Impactful last 20 minutes – Surprise cameo in the Climax. Overall: worth watching for sure.”

Comparisons to Don and Other Tamil Films

Before Dragon’s release, some speculated that it was a copy of Don 2, but upon viewing, audiences noted the distinctions.

The film transitions from Ragavan’s school days to his reckless college life, where Principal Mayilvahanan (Mysskin) attempts to guide him without resorting to harsh punishments.

While the first half follows a conventional college drama template, the second half is where Dragon shines. The screenplay, combined with impactful twists, elevates the film above predictable tropes.

However, some viewers found Ragavan and Keerthi’s (Anupama Parameswaran) relationship arc problematic, as it seemingly villainizes her for leaving him. Despite this, the film offers a satisfying resolution to their storyline.

Performances and Technical Aspects

Pradeep Ranganathan’s portrayal of Ragavan is reminiscent of his Love Today performance, with exaggerated reactions that work well for comedic moments but lack subtlety in emotional scenes.

Anupama Parameswaran is convincing in her role, particularly in emotional moments. Kayadu Lohar as Pallavi, Ragavan’s fiancée, delivers a fitting performance.

Leon James’ music significantly enhances the film, particularly in key emotional sequences.

The surprise cameo has also generated buzz among fans. Cinematographer Niketh Bommireddy and editor Pradeep E Ragav have contributed effectively to the film’s overall appeal.

Final Verdict

Despite minor shortcomings, Dragon delivers an engaging cinematic experience. While the film’s convenient writing and predictable first half may not impress all viewers, the screenplay, performances, and unexpected twists ensure a compelling watch.

Whether it will achieve blockbuster status remains to be seen, but for now, it continues to generate discussions among Tamil cinema enthusiasts.