Jithu Madhavan's Tamil directorial debut delivers a chaotic, darkly humorous thriller with Suriya leading an unpredictable investigation.
November 6 marked the theatrical release of 'Scene,' a film that immediately stood out in a crowded week. Directed by Jithu Madhavan — known for hits like 'Romancham' and 'Aavesham', this marks his entry into Tamil cinema with a high-octane, genre-bending thriller.
Suriya plays DSP Inbaraj, a police officer who’s checked out emotionally and professionally. But when a strange case pulls him back into duty, the story veers sharply away from any predictable path. There’s no traditional villain here, just psychological tension and absurd turns. The film thrives on unpredictability, with each twist designed to keep audiences off balance.
The comedy isn’t just padding, it’s woven into the narrative. Dark humour, witty exchanges, and surreal moments punctuate the crime investigation, giving the film a distinct tone. It’s not a straight-up thriller, nor is it pure farce. It’s something in between: a rollercoaster where laughter and suspense share equal space.
Suriya carries the film with ease. His performance balances attitude, intensity, and dry wit. He’s most effective in the opening sequences, where his character’s detachment is both funny and compelling. Nazriya Nazim steps up as Maya, delivering sharp lines and surprising action chops. Her fight scenes aren’t just functional, they’re highlights.
Naslen plays Eswaran, the antagonist, but he’s less a brute and more a presence. His menace comes from ambiguity, not muscle. The role leans into psychological unease, which works within the film’s framework, though it may leave fans of conventional villains wanting more physical threat.
Technical execution is tight. Chethan D'Souza’s choreography makes the climax feel earned and visceral. Sushin Shyam’s score, his first in Tamil, adds energy without overwhelming. Vineeth Augustian’s cinematography and Ajmal Sabu’s editing maintain momentum across the film’s 2 hours 29 minutes.
Some viewers might miss the slow build of a classic crime drama. 'Scene' doesn’t linger. It jumps, pivots, and surprises. That’s its strength, and its risk. The film rewards attention, but it won’t cater to those seeking quiet introspection.
Mathrubhumi English called it a ‘roller coaster of comedy, chaos and action,’ and that’s fair. It’s not perfect, some tonal shifts land harder than others, but it’s undeniably entertaining. For a Friday release, it’s already carving out a place in the conversation.
Next stop? Box office numbers. And whether this mix of madness and momentum can hold through the weekend.
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