Sivakarthikeyan’s much-anticipated film Madharaasi, directed by AR Murugadoss, released in theatres today and opened to mixed reactions from audiences and critics. Despite dull pre-bookings, many expected the film to become a blockbuster comeback for the director.
Viewers on social media felt the plot was fresh but criticised the love track and the second half, calling them disappointing. Several also pointed out that earlier this year Mani Ratnam, Karthik Subbaraj, and Shankar failed to impress, and now Murugadoss has joined that list.
Reports suggest Madharaasi is struggling in the Telugu states with negative word of mouth and almost heading towards a washout. In contrast, the film is holding strong in Tamil Nadu, thanks to Sivakarthikeyan’s star power and limited competition.
Only two medium-budget films, Bad Girl and Gandhi Kannadi, released alongside, giving Madharaasi a near-solo release in Tamil Nadu. Trade experts believe this advantage could help it survive the first weekend despite the mixed talk.
Overall, Murugadoss has left many fans disappointed. While Sivakarthikeyan’s pull might keep the film afloat in Tamil Nadu, its poor reception in other regions raises doubts on whether it can reach breakeven in the coming days.
