Summary
"Mersal" is a 2017 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film that tells the story of two estranged brothers: Vetri, a vigilante magician fighting medical crimes, and Maaran, a doctor who provides affordable healthcare. The film explores themes of corruption in the medical industry and the social responsibility of celebrities.
Plot
After a series of kidnappings of medical staff, Maaran is arrested and interrogated by police officer Ratnavel. Maaran reveals that the victims were responsible for the death of an auto driver's daughter and wife due to their negligence and greed. Maaran escapes and meets his doppelgänger, Vetri.
Vetri targets corrupt doctors and exposes their illegal practices. Maaran initially believes Vetri is the cause of his problems but learns the truth after investigating. The brothers discover that their father was killed by Daniel, a corrupt doctor, when he tried to expose Daniel's embezzlement.
Filled with rage, Vetri and Maaran confront Daniel and his associates, leading to a violent confrontation. Daniel is killed, and Vetri is arrested. Before leaving for prison, Vetri gives a press conference exposing the corruption in the medical industry and the negligence that led to the auto driver's daughter's death. Despite his efforts, another young girl dies from medical negligence. Vetri escapes prison and continues his mission.
Cast
- Vijay as Vetri and Maaran
- S. J. Suryah as Daniel Arokiaraj
- Kajal Aggarwal as Anu Pallavi
- Samantha Ruth Prabhu as Thara
- Nithya Menen as Vadivu
- Sathyaraj as Vetrimaaran
- Vadivelu as Periyasamy
- Hareesh Peradi as Selva
- Kovai Sarala as Mariammal
- Sathyan as SSI Balakrishnan
Production
The film was directed by Atlee and produced by Thenandal Studio Limited. Vijay played triple roles for the first time in his career. The soundtrack was composed by A. R. Rahman, and the cinematography was done by G. K. Vishnu.
Reception
"Mersal" received generally positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its performances, social message, and technical aspects, but criticized for its clichéd plot and excessive length. The film was a commercial success, grossing ₹200-260 crore worldwide. It won several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for Nithya Menen and Best Music Director for A. R. Rahman.
Controversies
"Mersal" faced criticism for its portrayal of the medical industry and its comments on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Digital India initiative. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded that some scenes be removed, leading to a debate about freedom of expression. The film also faced financial issues, with its production company filing for bankruptcy.