The Greatest of All Time (GOAT), directed by Venkat Prabhu and starring Thalapathy Vijay, will finally enter theaters on September 5, 2024, after a long wait since his last film, Leo. The film aims to bring out Vijay’s star power in a high-energy action drama, but its outcomes are mixed.
Movie Review: The Greatest of All Time (GOAT)
Vijay appears in two roles: M. S. Gandhi, a top agent in the Special Anti-Terror Squad (SATS), and his younger self. The film uses de-aging technology to give Vijay a new face, which, although stunning in sections, draws opposing viewpoints. His acting is undoubtedly convincing but the film’s success is entirely dependent on his charisma.
The story follows Gandhi’s painful journey after losing his kid during a mission. When the son unexpectedly comes back, Gandhi is confronted with a series of problems that put his personal and professional life to the test. Although the film begins with remarkable scenes like Gandhi’s parachute escape, it struggles with rhythm and narrative depth throughout its three-hour runtime. While the tale is entertaining at times, it is often predictable and stretched thin.
High-power stunts and action scenes are where GOAT shines technically, and they’re sure to thrill viewers who enjoy thrilling movies. Nevertheless, Yuvan Shankar Raja’s score falls short of goals, with several tunes feeling more out of place than adding to the overall energy of the movie. Even with strong editing and cinematography, the film’s narrative flaws are not entirely made up for by these qualities.
Critical reaction has been mixed. Some critics praise Vijay’s acting and the film’s action sequences, while others criticize it for lacking creativity and relying too heavily on fan service. Although GOAT includes various references to Vijay’s previous films, it falls short of telling a unique and fascinating plot.
The Greatest of All Time (GOAT) is a film that will likely resonate with Vijay’s loyal fanbase, delivering action and star power. However, for those seeking a deeper, more innovative narrative, the film may not fully satisfy. It’s a reminder of Vijay’s impressive screen presence but also highlights the need for a more engaging and well-rounded story to match his considerable talent.
The Greatest of All Time (GOAT) is a film that will most likely appeal to Vijay’s devoted fans, since it delivers action and star power. However, for those looking for a more complex, unique story, the film may fall short. It serves as a reminder of Vijay’s commanding screen presence while highlighting the importance of a more compelling and well-rounded story to match his huge talent.