Star power or script power? The highs and lows of Tamil multi-starrers
Multi-starrer films have always created massive buzz in Tamil cinema, drawing in audiences with the sheer thrill of watching their favorite actors share the screen. When executed well, they deliver cinematic gold, take 'Chekka Chivantha Vaanam' for instance.
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Directed by
, this action-packed drama brought together a stellar cast including
,
, Arun Vijay, Simbu, and Jyotika. Its success proved that a well-balanced script can harness multiple star energies without one overshadowing the other, making it a standout example of a multi-starrer done right. The film's taut screenplay and distinct character arcs offered a textbook case on how to effectively manage ensemble casts in mainstream cinema.
The danger of star-centric films without substance
On the other end of the spectrum lies the issue of unbalanced screen time and underwhelming writing. 'Jailer,' despite Rajinikanth's commanding presence, left some audiences divided due to the extended cameos by Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar, which felt more like crowd-pleasers than story drivers. Similarly, 'GOAT,' Thalapathy Vijay's ambitious time-travel drama directed by Venkat Prabhu, attempts to capitalize on a multi-layered cast including Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, and Meenakshi Chaudhary.
However, the film faced criticism for failing to give its ensemble meaningful arcs, leading to a disconnect between hype and substance. When characters exist only to serve fan service, the storytelling inevitably suffers.
Big promises ahead
Ajith's 'Vidaamuyarchi,' which carried the promise of a unique storyline and an emotionally engaging journey, couldn't quite strike the right balance between character depth and mass moments. Meanwhile, 'Thug Life,' reuniting
with Mani Ratnam after decades, boasts a dynamic lineup including Silambarasan, Trisha,
, and Gautham Karthik.
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With expectations skyrocketing, fans hope the screenplay justifies each star's presence, avoiding the common pitfalls of fragmented storytelling. Adding to the excitement is 'Coolie,' directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring Rajinikanth, which promises to blend star power with a gripping narrative, raising the bar for upcoming multi-starrers. The audience today is far more discerning, expecting not just presence, but purpose.
Not every multi-starrer gets it right
The real challenge in Tamil multi-starrers lies in coherence. Star value might sell the first weekend, but only gripping content sustains a film. Overstuffed casts often lead to shallow characterizations—as seen in 'Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan,' where Simbu's multiple avatars couldn't salvage the muddled plot. Successful multi-starrers like 'Vikram,' though from the pan-Indian arena, set a benchmark for how Tamil actors like Kamal Haasan, Vijay Sethupathi, and Fahadh Faasil can thrive when backed by a strong narrative.
'No one can steal your talent. Multi-starrers are an opportunity to learn from other actors,'
said Vijay Sethupathi during the promotions of Vikram.
'Without a strong supporting cast, no hero's film truly works. Multi-starrers are about adding value to the story,'
shared
while speaking about ensemble films at a movie event.
'Star clashes are purely business. What truly matters is whether each role fits the story—like it did in Vikram,'
said Kamal Haasan, explaining the business strategy behind multi-starrers during 'Vikram' promotions.
Nikilesh Surya (theatre manager & trade observer) on Vikram said in an interaction with The News Minute: 'Vikram is a testament to the box office potential of a good film with a great cast that people are eager to see. Hopefully, stars will let creators do their part like in Vikram and they can see the results follow.'
"A strong cast does generate opening weekend hype but success must come from substance", posted trade analyst Ramesh Bala on social media about 'Thug Life.'
Story over stardom: The real key to longevity
In essence, multi-starrer Tamil films are a double-edged sword. While the excitement around them is undeniable, their lasting impact depends on the script's ability to justify each character's presence. Star power might open doors, but it's the story that ensures they remain open.
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