Por Thozhil (2023) Poster

(2023)

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9/10
Por Thozil
tinumtiju9 June 2023
A well written & well made engaging edge of the seat crime thriller by Vignesh Raja. The first half was superb, and the second half was extraordinary. The last 45 minutes were unpredictable, with twists & turns. The killer's motive was well executed through flashback, and his sad moments were portrayed good. The duo of Sarath Kumar and Ashok Selvan was absolutely phenomenal, leaving a lasting impact throughout the movie. Sarath Kumar played his cop role perfectly, showcasing boldness and brilliance. The way his character was explained in the last scene, within a single scene, was truly great. The character growth of Ashok Selvan from the beginning to the end was Impressive, his last gun scene was outstanding. Cinematography was excellent. The Background Music was absolutely perfect, creating thrilling moments. Overall, "Por Thozil" offers a great experience that does not disappoint.
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9/10
Do your job properly,you will get the respect you deserve...!!!
PANDIAN1206216 July 2023
A rivetting journey of crime thriller that keeps u edge of seat untill the last act...with a brilliant story screenplay and fine performance from the cast the flick has garnered all-round accolades... Vignesh raja explores the realities of police job simultaneously livelihood of individuals at proper intervals where the characters are caught in a vortex of survival and desperate measures they take on and consequences sets the benchmark for Kollywood post "RATCHASAN"... While compelling narratives are supported by evocative camera work and bgm keeps u in a web of deceit and compliments the narration ... Overall a worthy theatrical movie that deserves a nationwide recognition...
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7/10
The art of writing a taut thriller.
chand-suhas16 June 2023
Por Thozhil is about a newly recruited DSP trainee Prakash (Ashok Selvan) teaming up with seasoned officer SP Lokanathan (Sarath Kumar) over a serial killing case. Lokanathan is least interested in mentoring the rookie and the rookie decides to prove himself by helping Lokanathan solve the case. A series of murders happen with the perpetrator leaving no clue and randomly choosing the victims. How the duo find the real killer when they have literally no motive to work with forms the story.

Por Thozhil solely works for it's writing which gives no space to deviate from it's limited set of characters and their sub plots. Kudos to the director for keeping proceedings tense and especially the first half simply stands out with that terrific interval block. The subtle treatment does the trick and having seasoned actors like Sarath Babu and Sarath Kumar is a casting masterstroke. The second half though doesn't match the first half which had set the bar too high, it still delivers with the rightly placed twists despite choosing the predictable narrative.

With strong performances and a tight narrative, Por Thozhil is another worthy entry into the investigative thriller genre and is worth watching. Definitely recommended.
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10/10
best crime investigation thriller
saru202025 June 2023
This film feels like one of the best crime novel-based films ever made.

The 2 protagonists based crime investigation drama in Tamil films is rarely made and the twists & turns in the film are so engaging with a back plot for every character and made in a not-so-boring way is really intriguing to watch.

The unfolding of every single scene from the start to the end of the film with a nicely designed characterisation makes this film a must-watch for all crime moviegoers.

After a long time, Sarath Kumar has done a role that showcases how good a senior actor he is.

Overall, this film is a bliss to watch, if you like watching crime investigation thrillers.
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9/10
This is how Crime-thrillers should be made!
SoumikBanerjee199612 August 2023
All aspiring filmmakers should take some notes; crime novelists could take a couple of lessons as well; this is how tales of crime should be adapted into compelling screenplays, and this is how crime thrillers should be concocted.

What an immaculate work; albeit I was already aware of its encouraging reception, it still managed to leave a lingering impression.

One of the main reasons being its neat writing which wasted no time in trifling worries and refrained from indulging in unnecessary subplots; the script, from beginning to end, stayed very much to the point and seldom detracted from its intended course, which I admired.

Other than its writing mastery, the performances too had their significant contributions; both the leads did great in their respective positions, and they had to gel well together, and they did, which in return produced more anticipation for the viewers; it made things more memorable, I reckon.
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8/10
One of the best thriller in recent times
basuchandaki11 August 2023
I would like to hurry recommend this week engaging thriller gripping screenplay and I never seen this type of thriller in Tamil cinema in recent times. Both the actress did very well specially Sharad Kumar did brilliant. Story telling screenplay cinematography and background drama looks very nice. Keeping this suspense and pattern very well and direction will give you high points it would be my personal favourite now you can watch it in on Sony LIV. Murder mystery and engaging drama would feel best among the suspense thriller. It's highly recommending now. I am expecting more Tamil movies like this.
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9/10
Well Presented!! Don't miss this movie!!
rajesh-puvvada11 June 2023
Por Thozil A review by Rajesh Puvvada 11th June 2023

It's been while since I have watched a movie where every sentence spoken and every shot taken has complete relevance. The plot and presentation is so handsome that the looks of actors are of no purpose in this movie.

Crime and serial killing stories are not new, but how the movie is presented makes a whole difference. It's a typical story with a veteran and rookie gap in understanding is wide and the grumpy veteran has an edge backed by experience.

By far Sharath Kumar's most meaningful no nonsense performance. Ashok Selvan fits very well within the plot and delivers his part without blemish. I must say with his performance he has come of age in Tamil cinema. You get to see Sarath Babu for one last time in this movie. The quaint septuagenarian has delivered and that was noteworthy.

The movie spins around a few roads in Trichy. No long chases, unnecessary build ups, six pack glamour. There is so much realism in this movie, one will appreciate the colloquial flavour the movie keeps.

The movie leaves a message to all those parents who fail to offer a proper childhood to their children. So it's a must watch for all the parents. The mortuary scenes can be disturbing, hence I would recommend to leave the young children away from this movie.

I am going with a 8.8/10 for this one. Do watch it!! Some can wait for the OTT release, but you will miss the completeness a theatre would offer generously!!

I am planning to watch it again, to analyse the presentation style!!
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7/10
A solid procedural thriller from Tamil cinema after a while! [+73%]
arungeorge1318 June 2023
I'll definitely recommend Por Thozhil to those who enjoy their share of investigative crime thrillers. It's been a while since we've come across a police procedural (in Tamil cinema) that focuses on the finer details, adding an uneasy dynamic between a rookie cop and an experienced (almost emotionless) veteran. Sarath Kumar and Ashok Selvan are both splendid in their respective roles (you'd know who's who by that description I gave). Director Vignesh Raja mentioned in interviews how he's fond of David Fincher's works, and the inspiration is evident. The framing style, the dark tones, the attention to detail - the debut filmmaker certainly shows promise.

It somewhat follows the Ratchasan template of a serial killer with a flashback (and a decoy), yet the film works from both writing and technical standpoints. Jakes Bejoy's score adds to the tense mood, the performances are pretty much on point, and the twists keep coming. While you won't be able to foresee the killer because his identity is unfurled layer by layer, and he shows up only in the final act (with a half-baked backstory), it's the proceedings until then that keep you on edge. There's a terrific stretch where the cop duo think they've "solved" the case only to realize that they've solved a totally different one. Let's get a sequel made soon enough, please?
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8/10
Good serial killer movie..!
kamalbeeee14 June 2023
A senior and junior police officers Try to finding a serial killer and by their talent investigation they caught the killers finally... Very gripping screenplay and scenes... Climax little resemblance of 'The silence of the lambs'...!

Must watch investigation thriller..!

A senior and junior police officers Try to finding a serial killer and by their talent investigation they caught the killers finally... Very gripping screenplay and scenes... Climax little resemblance of 'The silence of the lambs'...!

Must watch investigation thriller..!

A senior and junior police officers Try to finding a serial killer and by their talent investigation they caught the killers finally... Very gripping screenplay and scenes... Climax little resemblance of 'The silence of the lambs'...!

Must watch investigation thriller..!
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7/10
Great first half, good second half, a little less impressive climax
JakDexxter12 June 2023
Firstly, I am not the target audience here. I am a Telugu speaking person. I have picked this movie to watch only because I am a fan of this genre.

The first half is great. Classic crime investigation stuff. The second half is good too. The graph dropped a bit after the flash back in the second half which is followed by a decent climax.

If you are expecting something on a level of Ratsasan, you will be disappointed for sure. Not sure why everybody is comparing this movie with Ratsasan.

However, if you are interested in this movie, you can definitely give it a shot - be it in theatre or on OTT.
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9/10
A criminological master piece
lakshitasivaraman17 July 2023
' Por Thozhil ' is a beautifully and carefully packed present with a satisfying gift inside.

This movie not only gives you the thrills and goosebumps, it also deliveries a fair share of good laughable comedy and as a cherry on the top a bit a romance. It has a bit of every genre.

The characters in this movie were very much realistic, and the actors had nailed their job at giving the characters' lives.

This movie is perfect in its own way, given the fact that this is the director's first major movie, he did an amazing job.

Vignesh Raja (the director), a tremendous applause to him as well as the entire team behind Por Thozhil.

A must watch; it's such an incredible experience.
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6/10
Missed opportunity but well done
aman-notall28 August 2023
Well here is a detailed review.

Direction was average. Editing was poor. Bgm again is poor. Story is good tries to keep you on the edge but you still fast forward it at many places just because of poor editing. Character development of some characters should have been thorough. You can't just gave a sharp turn to a story without proper braking. Its a story not a race. Acting wise the DSP falls short. SP guy is good he looks like a tough cop. Again acting could've been a lot better. Could've been a great movie only if more homework was done. Like the behaviour of killers serial killers I mean. 6 on 10 for me.
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5/10
Agenda driven film, Ratchasan repeat offender
Dolchi11 July 2023
Not a genuine film, although has many twists and turns, with a lot of thrilling spots.

Unfortunately, has many "comedy" scenes which make us angry, and questions the credibility of the film.. This is not a good film, in spirit.. A murder suspect by the name similar to real life accused Ramkumar, is shown to have committed suicide in custody and died. This is later shown to be the false killer, thereby lending support to rumors that Ramkumar was not the real Nungambakkam murderer. Decide if you want to support this or not.

The Asok character has a flashback which makes one cringe.. Even in high school, one cannot narrate this "stone in manga tree and thief" story and get away without getting trolled. Some details they keep saying are not realistic and just falls into the "convenient for story's sake" trope.. This movie is not only low in budget, but in morals too.. The vilification of minorities and charities is done in a very open manner without repercussions.
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9/10
Another psycho thriller feather added in the crown of Kollywood...
vicky-6591813 June 2023
Watched without any expectations but it was a great thriller ride without any flaw It was crisp... Actors justified their roles obviously it was Ashok Selvan and Sharath Kumar Background music was great No unnecessary songs and distractions Some comedy worked out... Twists was not forced Even had a good message Antagonists backstory was good So everything was perfect A good treat for thriller genre fans I liked it for sure you may also like give it a try... My rating to this movie is 9/10 Some disturbing scenes but family watchable... Don't miss it in theatres and regret it later... I hope it was helpful. Thank you...
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9/10
Cliff edge and fast paced crime investigative thriller
PavanKV12 June 2023
Por Thozhil- Cliff edge and fast paced crime investigative thriller. It pounds back heart at rapid pace with depth in the story and crisp editing. Hats off to the amazing Director Vignesh Raja who raises the bar on how to take quality movies, keeping audience at the edge with every moment and make it realistic. No songs, no masala and no unnecessary scenes. Dialogues are to the point and screenplay is super sleek. Sharath Kumar is apt to the role with serious acting. Ashok Selvan does the job well. Antagonist gives shivers down the spine. Background music is top notch and gels really well with the story. One of the best Tamil thrillers and even surpasses Ratsasan. Watch it only in theatre as it's totally worth it!
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8/10
Best Tamil thriller of 2023
appusnikhil11 August 2023
"Child is the father of man"- This is a famous quote from William Wordsworth and this quote perfectly suits this movie. I couldn't watch it in theaters because it was not released in a theatre near my home. This is the best Tamil thriller of 2023 thanks to its crisp and clear screenplay.

I was so excited to see Sharath Kumar after a long time. He and Sharath Babu are the top performers in this movie. The production design was also fine and the camera department also did a great job. I'm expecting more thrillers like this in the coming years from Tollywood, this was mind-blowing and the twist in the movie was great than I expected.
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8/10
A compelling whodunit with excellent performances!
nidhunmoviebuff10 June 2023
Director Vighnesh Raja defies generic investigative thriller tropes to deliver meticulously etched-out characters, harnessing the capabilities of his two leads to the fullest extent. Sarathkumar & Ashok Selvan excel as a yin vs yang buddy cop pairing, delivering a compelling thriller that will have you hooked!

This has to be the finest atmospheric thriller in Tamil cinema since the critically and commercially acclaimed "Ratsasan (2018)" with slow but assured pacing, intense character studies, finely calibrated performances and unexpected twists and turns. The pulsating music and sound design contribute to building the tension even more. A mandatory theatre watch!
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6/10
Disappoints by revealing the suspense half way!
UmeshAditya15 August 2023
A crime suspense thriller about a serial killer! Starts with a captivating storyline n holds its grip until the half but suddenly disappoints by revealing the serial killer half way. Then usual crap flashback story to serial killer which makes no sense to his acts. No songs, no comedy, no unwanted drama definitely. But definitely could have been much better. Lead cast have played well. My ratings 6.5/10!

A crime suspense thriller about a serial killer! Starts with a captivating storyline n holds its grip until the half but suddenly disappoints by revealing the serial killer half way. Then usual crap flashback story to serial killer which makes no sense to his acts. No songs, no comedy, no unwanted drama definitely. But definitely could have been much better. Lead cast have played well. My ratings 6.5/10!
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9/10
Unmissable!! Great watch!!
sanjubhat21 December 2023
Film Review: Por Thozil ( The Art of War) - Tamil Language film streaming on Sony LIV

After Iraivan.. I happened to check out Por Thozil.. another psychological thriller. But this one was an awesome film and kept me guessing till the very end!!

Two cops, the experienced SP Loganathan ( S Sarathkumar ) & a newbie DSP Prakash (Ashok Selvan) with totally different personalities and ways of working must join hands in order to catch a serial killer who has resumed killing after his last murder in 1979. Why has the killer suddenly started killing again? Will this team extreme decipher the clues , delve deep into the cold cases and nab the perp ?

Je Baat, bahut maza aaya dekh ke !! Strong script, crisp editing, no digressing from the main story with unnecessary sub plots and songs !!

Grt acting without any unrealistic action scenes, yet keeping the viewers hooked till the very end !! Might seem a bit laidback at the start but fikar not, picks up momentum & never lets ur attention waver one bit!!

I would rate it on par with some of the cult classics like Ratsasan, Anjaam Pathira, Hit- The first case which I enjoyed immensely!!

Ticked all the right check boxes ✅ for me !!

Going with 4/5 for this one .. Adios 🙂!!

#sanjuzzreviews #porthozil #Sarathkumar #ashokselvan #SarathBabu #sonylivindia #SonyLIV.
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6/10
Filmmaker's brilliance makes ignore the flaws
badrinathp19 June 2023
Villain character lacks the depth. Without much clarity on the villain back story, his actions won't be justified. One scene about his past won't be enough to explore his crimes.

1st half is so unique it breaks all the crime thriller templates. 2nd half esp 3rd act falls flat as it again comes within that space. It feels forced at the climax.

Directorial touches are good.

Character writing of lead characters is so realistic.

But minor characters also require matured writing.

Few flaws are there.

Cinematography captures the essence of the story.

Climax message hits the audience after the film.

Script and screenplay made the audience to enjoy this roller coaster ride.

This review and analysis comes after watching the film. This shows the brilliance of film maker.

Overall , Film is good.
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8/10
Good thriller!!
sriramthestranger10 June 2023
The movie reminds you of Ratchasan at places and there is also a character named 'Ramkumar'. Veteran actors Sarath Kumar and Sarath Babu stole the show and the story has enough meat to show their prowess. The mystery element works well and all the main characters have a turbulent childhood and there is even a counter argument on serial killers in this movie.

The technical team is just too good and thrills work at majority of the places. The reveals and misses are stunning and engaging. Though logically there are things don't work out, the writing is too good with enough depth for each characters. Do watch this movie!!
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7/10
Well made police thriller
harineem-209-52548811 August 2023
The movie is a police investigative thriller. While it is no masterpiece like "Theeran Adigaram Onru", it still doesnt bore you or have jarring bloody scenes. The plot sticks to the main story with no unnecessary characters or storylines.

The experienced cop and rookie plays off very well where you can see the rookie keeps reacting to the situation while the experienced cop is totally immersed with almost zen like focus on solving it.

If you have watched many thrillers then this movie does not hold anything special for you.

Sarath Babu looks very weak and it must have been his last movie. He looks pathetic and I am surprised he was cast in such a critical role in that state. And not one you want to be your last one.

The film hints at continuing the series and I would really want few more films with the detective duo solving cases along with the same actress as technical assistant.

Overall a good watch with matured performances.
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1/10
One of the dumbest movies ever
sahirshah13 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
A lame attempt to create a psycho thriller movie. The script comes up with weirdest scenarios ever. There was a serial killer. He stopped killing because he got married. Then his wife died. So he started killing again. But wait it wasn't him who started killing again. It was a copy cat serial killer. That brings us to the question why did the copy cat serial killer wait for the original serial killer's wife to die before he started the copycat killings ? In short the script is a complete hotchpotch of illogical themes. The movie tries to create suspense and drama but fails miserably. This movie is excruciatingly boring and a complete waste of time.
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10/10
A well written thriller film
psathishpjs12 June 2023
After ratsasan. This is best thriller movie.

Characterization is very good. From the start the flim is engaged with top speed. First half itself feels like value for money. Writer managed to extend the same speed in second half too. All scenes are connected wnd cery well executed. We can't say any scenes thats irrelevant to the story.

No songs, No romance fully focused on the story. Many comedy moments worked out very well. There are many violent scens but it is necessary for the script.

As a audiance we will engang from the beginning of the movie. Writer has done very good field study for the investigation scenes. Screenplay is good. Music is ok. Performance are delivered to the required level.

Overall must watch thriller movie...
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9/10
Enjoyed it!!
TreeFiddy5326 June 2023
I finally got to watch this after listening to and reading about all the hype and it was totally worth it, I left the film thinking "Man, I would love it if they make a sequel." The 8.5 and 97% scores are justified.

I'm gonna keep this short and not reveal much. This was a thrilling police procedural without over the top masala & heroism, a rarity by itself to begin with. You'll find this to be a very well written film above all. I'm glad they didn't have any high profile names who'd have over shadowed the script, but I wonder if the lack of a big name is limiting the reach this film should have had by now. It almost sounds like there's hardly been any marketing and whatever hype's been created, is purely based on word of mouth - which tells you something about the film. Don't just stop with the film, watch the director's interviews once you're done - masterclass on writing and cinematography. This will make you appreciate it more.

The theater I was in had blaring music, wish that had been toned down. If I had to nitpick I can point to a few things and say this and that could have been slightly different, but never mind all that. Watch it, especially if you love a good thriller. You won't be disappointed.
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