Retro Movie Review

Retro (2025) Movie: What's Behind

Retro, the latest film starring Suriya who has been waiting to score a solid blockbuster directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film has generated significant buzz with its promotional material and hero - director combo. Produced by Suriya and Jyothika, Retro has Pooja Hegde as a female lead. The film's release in Tamil and Telugu, has sparked curiosity among audiences. Retro OTT streaming rights are with Netflix. Let's see how the movie fare?

Retro Movie (2025): Story Review

Retro revolves around how a hot headed gangster tries to transform for the sake of his love. But, his past chases him and reveals his true identity directing towards his goal in life. Paarivel Kannan (Suriya), a notorious gangster Tilak's (Joju George) adopted son, who falls in love with Rukmini (Pooja Hegde) and decides to leave his criminal past behind. However, his father, is after a mysterious entity called the 'Gold Fish,' and only Paarivel knows its whereabouts. The film's narrative explores Paarivel's motive for escaping prison, ending up in Black Island trying to reunite with Rukmini the intentions behind local King Michael (Vidhu) support, and Tilak's obsession with the Gold Fish. It also reveals who are his real parents and his ultimate goal towards the end. 

Suriya's Retro Film (2025): Artists Review

Suriya delivers a dedicated performance, appearing in multiple looks that suit the story's timeline. He's convincing in action and emotional moments, bringing intensity to key emotional scenes. He tried his best to uphold his character but his potential was wasted in a poorly written role.  

Pooja Hegde looks elegant on screen, but her character doesn't get much scope to showcase her acting potential. Joju George performs reasonably well, while Vidhu impresses as the unpredictable antagonist. Seasoned actors Nasser and Prakash Raj didn't get much scope to perform. Shriya Saran Dazzles in an item song. 

Retro (2025) Movie: Technicians Review

The film written and directed by Karthik Subbaraj tries to juggle multiple genres, including romance and action, but lacks clarity in direction. Director's ambition is evident, but the lack of narrative coherence and structural discipline weighs the film down. The film soon fizzles out after a promising start. 

Shreyaas Krishna's cinematography is decent, with a few striking visuals especially after the story shifts to Andaman. Santhosh Narayanan's music is a clear highlight, injecting life into otherwise dull stretches. Apart from the chartbuster Kannamma song, his background score provides respite in many poorly executed scenes. Editing by Shafique Mohamed Ali could have been sharper, there are many scenes which feel dragged beyond a point. 

The narrative grip is a major issue, with the second half feeling dragged and unfocused. The screenplay lacks depth, and many scenes fall flat without a meaningful emotional payoff. Character arcs and relationships are weakly developed, limiting the impact of pivotal moments. 

Retro is a love-action drama that clicks in parts but falters in execution. Suriya's performance and the music are definite strengths, but the film is let down by its muddled storytelling and an underwhelming second half. Apart from the lengthy single take of Kannamma song followed by a scene, The film doesn't have any high moments and the second half is a complete mess with things going on and on. 

Retro Movie: Positives

• Suriya
• Background Music
• Action Sequences
• Visuals

Retro Movie: Negatives

• Muddled Story
• Weak Writing
• Poor Pacing
• Underutilized Cast

Retro (2025) Movie: Rating Analysis

In conclusion, Retro has its moments, but the film's lack of clarity and coherence holds it back from reaching its full potential. Except for Suriya and background music it is difficult to stay invested. Karthik Subburaj as a director has completely failed in execution despite having a promising star like Suriya with all resources. Considering all these aspects, CineJosh is going with a 2 rating for 'Retro'.