“Hit List” is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language action film directed by Soorya Kathir Kakkallar and K. Karthikeyan. The film stars R. Sarathkumar, Vijay Kanishka, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Smruthi Venkat. The film was released on May 31, 2024, to mixed reviews, and is now available on OTT platforms.
Plot
The plot revolves around Vijay (Vijay Kanishka), a young guy who lives a basic, disciplined life with his mother (Sithara) and school-age sister (Abhi Nakshatara). Vijay’s life is flipped upside down when a masked stranger kidnaps his mother and sister and demands that he complete a series of tasks to save them. These tasks push Vijay into a world of violence and crime, testing his morals and forcing him to confront his darkest fears.
Review
Vijay Kanishka, as the protagonist, Vijay delivers a strong performance, especially in scenes requiring empathy and action. Despite being a newcomer, he holds his own throughout the film. Playing Vijay’s mother, Sithara brings a touch of realism and class to the film, showcasing her talent in both emotional and intense scenes.
“Hit List” starts on a slow note, with the initial scenes failing to engage fully. However, the plot thickens and gains momentum, raising intriguing questions by the end of the first half. The second half offers more developments, blending a social message with emotional drama. While some elements, particularly those related to the pandemic, are relatable, others come off as cinematic and unrealistic.
The film’s attempt to strike a balance between a strong message and amusement is occasionally unsuccessful. The first half’s humor falls flat, while the second half is primarily serious.
Directors Soorya Kathir Kakkallar and K. Karthikeyan wrote a good story, however its implementation on screen is inconsistent. “Hit List” excels in some areas while failing in others, resulting in a film that works in sections rather than as a whole.
Overall, “Hit List” is an action thriller with strong performers and uneven plot. If you enjoy the genre, it’s worth watching for the intense scenes and the lead actors’ performances.
