"Iraivi", literally means "Goddess". The title intelligently relates to two interlinked plots in the movie, that is the lives of female characters in the story, and a sub plot related to the theft of goddess statues from temples. A dejected film maker (SJ Surya) , his younger brother (Bobby Simha) and their loyal friend (Vijay Sethupathi) mess up their own lives due to their inability to control their rash and impulsive behaviours. In the process, they cause suffering to the women in their lives, unintentionally. In turn, the women face the dilemma between putting up with these troublesome men and the chance to rebuild their lives independently. The story ends in a tragedy with a message that friendship and loyalty should be within certain limits. SJ Surya is the show stealer with his portrayal as a chronic alcoholic. The climax scene showcases his brilliant histrionics. Bobby Simha has done a great job in his role as SJ Surya's vengeful brother who nurses hatred for men who disrespect women. Vijay Sethupathi also excels in his role as the erring husband and as the unquestioningly loyal friend who unwittingly ruins his own life. Kamalini Mukherjee, Anjali and Pooja Devariya do justice to their roles as women affected by the men in their lives. Veteran actress Vadivukarasi plays a cameo role as the bedridden comatose mother of SJ Surya and Bobby Simha, and Radha Ravi plays the role of her repentant husband. The first few minutes are not really appealing but the story gains depth as the narrative progresses. Director Karthik Subbaraj's wife appears in a cameo role as Kamalini Mukherjee's friend.
Review of Iraivi
