Vijay Antony's latest film, Maargan, a crime thriller directed by Leo John Paul, has been released in theaters on June 27, 2025. The film stars Vijay Antony as Dhruv, an ADGP from Mumbai, alongside Ajay Dhishan as Tamilarivu, and P. Samuthirakani. The movie revolves around a series of murders and an investigation led by Dhruv, promising twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end.
The film has garnered attention for its unique blend of investigative thriller elements with supernatural themes. Director Leo John Paul, in his directorial debut, brings his experience as an editor to create a film where "40 percent will center around investigation" and the remaining "60 percent will revolve around mystery," even incorporating aspects of astral travel. The director's ambition to blend fantasy with the investigation aims to offer audiences a larger-than-life cinematic experience.
Maargan begins with ADGP Dhruv, grieving the loss of his daughter, who was murdered by a serial killer. He finds himself drawn into a similar case in Chennai, where the victims are injected with a drug that blackens their skin. Despite being discouraged by his superiors due to his recent personal tragedy, Dhruv takes it upon himself to investigate the Chennai murder. The investigation leads him to Tamilarivu, a swimmer with a brilliant memory, who becomes a key figure in solving the mystery. The film explores the motives behind the murders and the significance of the skin-blackening drug, with a runtime of two hours and 12 minutes.
Vijay Antony, who also composed the music for the film, plays a restrained role, allowing the plot to take center stage. Ajay Dhishan, making his debut, delivers a confident performance that keeps the audience engaged. Seshvitha's character adds depth to the narrative, while Yuva's cinematography and Vijay Antony's score enhance the film's mood and intensity.
While Maargan aims to be a gripping thriller with a thought-provoking message, some reviews suggest that the execution falters. The film blends thriller with supernatural elements, but some find the explanations unconvincing. The climax reveals the killer and attempts to address current societal obsessions among youngsters, but some critics feel that it barely scratches the surface. Some reviews point out the way it casually brands people from Dharavi. However, the film is praised for its crisp editing and fast-paced narrative, especially in the first half. The second half picks up momentum with unexpected twists and the inclusion of supernatural elements, leading to a meaningful payoff.
Producer Dhananjayan revealed that Maargan had already broken even before its release due to the sale of its digital, satellite, and Hindi dubbing rights. He praised Vijay Antony Film Corporation's track record and expressed confidence in the film's success, calling it a socially responsible thriller.
Overall, Maargan is described as an engaging and well-crafted thriller with a complex and layered plot. The film attempts to weave sharp and intelligent storytelling, making it a captivating experience for viewers who enjoy suspenseful narratives.
