Retro (2025): A Mesmerizing Tamil Saga of Love, Laughter, and War
Retro, the 2025 Tamil-language romantic action film tagged Love-Laughter-War, has captivated audiences and critics alike, emerging as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of the year. Helmed by acclaimed director Karthik Subbaraj, the film marks his much-anticipated first collaboration with superstar Suriya and co-stars Pooja Hegde in a compelling narrative that seamlessly blends romance, action, and emotion.
Produced by Stone Bench Creations and 2D Entertainment, Retro brings alive the golden hues of Tamil cinema from the past with a bold, contemporary edge. With vibrant visuals, a gripping story, powerful performances, and a soul-stirring soundtrack, it delivers a cinematic experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
A Story Rooted in Passion and Purpose
Set against the colorful backdrop of 1960s Thoothukudi, Retro follows the journey of Paarivel “Paari” Kannan (Suriya), an orphan raised by Sandhya, the wife of a feared gangster. Named after a spear-shaped scar on his stomach, Paari’s life is shaped by love, rejection, and survival. Despite being emotionally neglected by his adoptive father, Thilagan, Paari grows up in the warmth of Sandhya’s affection.
His life changes forever when he meets Rukmini (Pooja Hegde) during a funeral ceremony in Varanasi. Their fleeting encounter blossoms into a deep and enduring love. As Paari battles betrayal, a violent cult, and a haunting prophecy tied to his origins, his pursuit of redemption and reunion with Rukmini forms the beating heart of the film.
The film’s tagline—Love, Laughter, War—beautifully reflects its dynamic narrative arc. It begins with an emotional romance, shifts into quirky comedy thanks to a laughter therapist played by Jayaram, and culminates in high-octane action sequences, symbolizing both external conflicts and internal healing.
Stellar Cast and Unforgettable Performances
Suriya shines as Paari, delivering a layered performance filled with emotional vulnerability, grit, and charm. His retro transformation—vintage hair, fashion, and demeanor—evokes the spirit of classic Tamil heroes, yet his portrayal feels deeply personal and modern.
Pooja Hegde dazzles as Rukmini, portraying a headstrong and charismatic woman whose chemistry with Suriya brings warmth and spark to the screen. For the first time, she dubs her own voice for the Tamil version, adding authenticity to her performance.
The supporting cast adds richness and balance. Jayaram provides comic relief in a unique role as a laughter therapist, with a standout wedding sequence that mixes chaos and comedy. Joju George, Prakash Raj, and others lend gravitas, though some critics noted that the comedic beats sometimes dilute the story’s emotional weight.
Visuals, Music, and Technical Brilliance
Retro is a visual treat, thanks to Shreyaas Krishna’s cinematography, which captures stunning locations like Ooty, Kerala, Chennai, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The film’s aesthetic—bold colors, retro art design, and a 15-minute single-take action sequence—immerses viewers in a nostalgic yet fresh world.
Santhosh Narayanan’s music elevates every frame, marking his eighth collaboration with Subbaraj and his first with Suriya. The soundtrack was split into two sides:
- A-Side (April 18, 2025)
- B-Side (May 23, 2025)
Tracks like “Kannadi Poove” and “Kanimaa” became instant hits, with the latter’s viral choreography by Sherif Master sparking a social media dance craze.
Box Office, Production, and Critical Acclaim
Announced in March 2024 as Suriya 44, the film created a frenzy with its retro-themed poster and unique teaser strategy. Shooting began in June 2024 and wrapped by October, with post-production completed in April 2025.
Retro was released on May 1, 2025, in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada, coinciding with International Workers’ Day. The film received a U/A certificate with a runtime of 168 minutes, and grossed between ₹97–₹250 crore worldwide on a budget of ₹60–65 crore, officially becoming Suriya’s highest-grossing film.
Critics praised:
- Suriya and Pooja Hegde’s chemistry
- Subbaraj’s direction and storytelling finesse
- Technical elements like cinematography and music
However, some noted that the film’s pacing faltered in parts, particularly during its comedic interludes, which occasionally clashed with its emotional depth.
Beyond Cinema: A Cultural Phenomenon
Retro is more than just a film—it’s a movement. From breaking teaser view records (10 million+ in 24 hours) to launching a “first shot” promo video that set new standards in film marketing, Retro has left a cultural imprint.
The makers also pledged ₹10 crore from profits to the Agaram Foundation, showcasing the film’s commitment to social impact.
Now available to stream on Netflix (from May 31, 2025) in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, Retro is poised to charm global audiences.
Why Retro is a Must-Watch
Retro is a love letter to Tamil cinema—brimming with emotion, humor, action, and heart. It is a masterclass in balancing nostalgia with modern storytelling. Despite minor flaws, its ambition and soul make it a cinematic triumph.
Whether you’re here for Suriya’s stellar performance, Karthik Subbaraj’s visionary direction, the heartwarming romance, or the adrenaline-pumping action—Retro promises an unforgettable ride.
Watch Retro on Netflix now and experience the powerful blend of Love. Laughter. War. that’s taken 2025 by storm.
