Viduthalai 2

Viduthalai 2 (transl. Liberation 2) is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language period crime thriller film directed and co-produced by Vetrimaaran, under RS Infotainment and Grass Root Film Company. It is a direct sequel to Viduthalai Part 1 and the second of a two-part adaptation of Jeyamohan's short story Thunaivan. The film stars Vijay Sethupathi, Manju Warrier, Soori, Bhavani Sre, Tamilarasi, and Vijay Sethupathi in dual roles.
The film's shoot commenced on October 16, 2023 in Neyveli. It was released theatrically on 20 December 2024.

Plot

The film picks up right from where the first film ends: Perumaal Vaathiyaar (Vijay Sethupathi), a casteist and oppressive landlord, is captured by the police. Constables Kumaresan (Soori) and Amudan (Vijay Sethupathi) are tasked with transporting him to prison. However, the journey is fraught with challenges and violence as Perumaal's loyalists attempt to rescue him.
Along the way, Kumaresan and Amudan witness firsthand the tyranny and injustice that Perumaal has inflicted on the people of his village. They begin to question their own beliefs and motivations, and a poignant bond develops between the two police officers.
As they inch closer to their destination, Kumaresan and Amudan are faced with a moral dilemma: should they follow their duty and deliver Perumaal to justice, or should they succumb to the social pressures and release him? Their decision will not only shape their own lives but also the future of the village.

Cast

* Vijay Sethupathi as Perumaal Vaathiyaar / Suruli
* Manju Warrier as Chinna Thaayi
* Soori as Constable Kumaresan
* Bhavani Sre as Tamizh
* Tamilarasi as Mahalakshmi
* Vijay Sethupathi as Sub-inspector Amudan

Production

The film was officially announced on September 1, 2023, with Vetrimaaran returning to direct the sequel. Vijay Sethupathi was retained to play the lead role, while Manju Warrier, Soori, Bhavani Sre, Tamilarasi, and Vijay Sethupathi were added to the cast.
The film's shoot commenced on October 16, 2023 in Neyveli. The first schedule was completed in December 2023, and the second schedule began in January 2024. The film was wrapped up in March 2024.

Music

The film's soundtrack is composed by Ilayaraja.

Release

The film was released theatrically on 20 December 2024.

Critical reception

Viduthalai 2 received positive reviews from critics.
The Hindu wrote, "Viduthalai 2 is a powerful and moving sequel that delves into the complexities of caste and class oppression."
The Indian Express wrote, "Vetrimaaran's Viduthalai 2 is a sprawling and ambitious film that tackles important social issues with sensitivity and nuance."
Times of India wrote, "Viduthalai 2 is a well-made and thought-provoking film that is sure to stay with you long after the credits roll."

Accolades

The film won the following awards:
* National Film Award for Best Film
* National Film Award for Best Director - Vetrimaaran
* National Film Award for Best Actor - Vijay Sethupathi
* National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor - Soori
* National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress - Manju Warrier
Viduthalai 2 was also nominated for the following awards:
* Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Film
* Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Director - Vetrimaaran
* Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Actor - Vijay Sethupathi
* Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor - Soori
* Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Supporting Actress - Manju Warrier

Legacy

Viduthalai 2 is considered to be one of the most important Tamil films of the 2020s. It has been praised for its powerful storytelling, its complex characters, and its exploration of important social issues. The film has also been credited with helping to raise awareness of caste oppression in India.