Suriya’s much-anticipated film, Retro, directed by Karthik Subbaraj, has finally hit theaters, and early reactions indicate it’s a compelling blend of action, emotion, and nostalgia. The film debuted in Tamil and Telugu on May 1, 2025, captivating audiences with its engaging storyline and impressive performances.
Set against a backdrop of the 1970s and 1980s, Retro features Suriya as Paarivel "Paari" Kannan, a former gangster striving to leave behind a life of violence. His wife, Rukmini "Rukku", played by Pooja Hegde, is a significant part of his present as he attempts to distance himself from his tumultuous past. The film explores themes of love, redemption, and the haunting shadows of one’s history.
As the narrative unfolds, Paari's journey to find peace becomes increasingly complicated, with old enemies and unresolved issues resurfacing. The film's action sequences, choreographed by Kecha Khamphakdee, are particularly striking, adding a thrilling layer to the emotional drama.
Despite its serious undertones, Retro has garnered mostly positive to mixed reviews. Critics and audiences alike have praised Suriya’s performance, with one user on X (formerly Twitter) stating, "Only one word: Suriya! The show stealer of the whole film!" Another user rated it 4 out of 5, describing it as a "nostalgic gem" and highlighting the film's engaging score by Santhosh Narayanan.
In terms of technical achievements, the film shines with Shreyaas Krishna’s cinematography, which beautifully captures the retro aesthetic. The music and background score elevate the film's intensity, providing a sensory treat for viewers. The British Board of Film Classification has rated Retro 15 for "strong bloody violence" and "language", indicating its intense content.
Leading up to its release, the film generated significant buzz, with promotional efforts that included trailers and social media campaigns. Fans expressed excitement for the on-screen chemistry between Suriya and Hegde, with many eagerly anticipating their performances. The film was released alongside other titles such as Tourist Family and Nani's HIT 3, but early reports suggest that Retro is poised to stand out.
In the box office arena, Retro has already made waves, earning over Rs 5 crore in pre-sales, marking it as one of the top five Tamil openers of 2025. This impressive figure reflects the film's strong market presence and the anticipation surrounding Suriya’s return to the big screen after the mixed response to his previous film, Kanguva.
Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the film's direction and screenplay. One viewer noted, "The first half is packed with power performances!" while another highlighted the film's nostalgic appeal, calling it a "cult classic" with a gripping narrative.
As the film continues its theatrical run, it sets a high bar for upcoming releases in the Tamil cinema landscape. Fans and critics alike are curious to see how Retro will fare in the coming weeks, as more audiences experience its unique blend of action and emotion.
Overall, Retro marks a significant milestone in Suriya’s career, reaffirming his versatility and appeal as an actor. The film not only showcases his talent but also highlights Karthik Subbaraj’s distinctive directorial style, which combines stylized action with emotional storytelling.
As the buzz surrounding Retro continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether it will resonate as deeply with audiences as its creators intended. For fans of action-packed dramas infused with emotional depth, this film promises a cinematic experience that balances thrilling sequences with heartfelt moments.
With its grand release timed perfectly for the summer holiday weekend, Retro is poised to make a strong impact at the box office. As viewers flock to theaters, the film's success could pave the way for more collaborations between Suriya and Karthik Subbaraj in the future.
