Nearly thirty minutes into director Pandiraaj’s ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’, Nithya Menen’s character Perarasi receives a call from her husband Aagasaveeran (Vijay Sethupathi). Her phone identifies him as ‘Kirukku Payya’, which can be interpreted as ‘mad or crazy man’. This moniker suits Aagasaveeran perfectly, as well as every individual in the universe of director Pandiraaj’s ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’.

Set against the backdrop of Madurai, ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ opens with Perarasi and her parents participating in a tonsuring ceremony at a temple for her daughter, but her husband Aagasaveeran is absent. The couple has been living apart for three months, and it soon becomes evident that Perarasi is pursuing a divorce. As their families become involved, and after countless loud arguments, it becomes apparent that Aagasaveeran and Perarasi are two irrational, indecisive individuals trapped in their relationship.

Aagasaveeran and Perarasi find themselves in a predicament due to the interference of their mothers. Their lives come to a standstill following a significant altercation, which escalates into a full-scale conflict. The village leaders convene to seek a resolution to their issues. The narrative revolves around whether they will reconcile or part ways.

Director Pandiraaj’s films consistently emphasize the significance of unity, family, and selfless relationships. His family dramas often delve into domestic conflicts, characterized by high levels of melodrama. These films typically conclude with a family reunion where individuals set aside their egos and embrace a joyful existence. However, ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ presents a narrative of extremes. As Yogi Babu remarks in the closing credits, they are not ordinary individuals.

All characters, including Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen, become excessively loud. The volume reaches such heights that you may risk losing your hearing by the end of this regressive experience. The film serves as a repository of outdated concepts. From the portrayal of domestic violence between the husband and wife to the mockery of divorce and the judicial system, ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ glorifies it all.

The incessant shouting pauses when you learn they are on the brink of divorce. This revelation seems like a silver lining, yet the joy is fleeting. The film ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ plunges so deeply into its themes that it presents one regressive notion after another. Aagasaveeran and Perarasi share a tumultuous love-hate relationship. They are a couple that fights fiercely but reconciles as if nothing ever happened. The presence of their daughter does not restrain their words or actions. Even trivial issues provoke extreme reactions from them, and their families mirror this behavior.

The couple in ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ is ensnared in a relentless cycle. They argue, separate, reconcile, acknowledge their faults, and then repeat the same mistakes. This cycle continues endlessly, glorifying the toxic aspects of their relationship. You can’t help but feel for their infant daughter, who, with her partially shaved head, is forced to witness the constant disputes. Consider the trauma she will face as she grows up.

If you thought that was bad, just wait! The film’s main character suggests that people choose divorce to gain freedom and independence. Another character dismisses divorce as merely a piece of paper. Recently, the tragic death of Rithanya due to dowry harassment sparked conversations about the lack of support for young women from their families. Divorce is not just a piece of paper; it is a lifeline for those trapped in unhappy marriages, regardless of gender. If anything, divorce should not be mocked; the absence of choice should be.

While Nithya Menen and Vijay Sethupathi fit their roles well, it is perplexing to see two outstanding actors with significant fan bases promote such ideas under the guise of preserving culture and family values. In this film, they exaggerate their performances, overshadowing their talent. ‘Thalaivan Thalaivii’ does provide some humorous moments, thanks to Yogi Babu.