Vidaamuyarchi is a 2025 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film directed and written by Magizh Thirumeni. The film is an adaptation of the 1997 American film Breakdown.
Plot:
- The movie revolves around a married couple whose trip takes a bad turn when the wife goes missing. The husband then frantically searches for her while also facing obstacles created by an unknown villain.
- Arjun's relationship with his wife, Kayal, begins to fall apart when challenges arise. Kayal gets captured by a notorious group in Azerbaijan, leading Arjun to embark on a rescue mission.
Cast:
- The film stars Ajith Kumar as Arjun.
- Trisha Krishnan plays the role of Kayal.
- Arjun Sarja is cast as Rakshith.
- Regina Cassandra plays Deepika, Rakshith's wife.
- Arav plays Michael.
Production:
- Initially, Vignesh Shivan was the director for Ajith's 62nd film but was later replaced by Magizh Thirumeni.
- Principal photography began in October 2023, primarily in Azerbaijan, with a short schedule in Thailand.
- Filming wrapped up in late December 2024.
- The film's music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander.
- Om Prakash is the cinematographer, and N. B. Srikanth is the editor.
- The movie is produced by Subaskaran Allirajah under Lyca Productions.
Music:
- The soundtrack includes the songs "Sawadeeka", "Pathikichu", and "Thaniye".
- The first single, "Sawadeeka", was released on 27 December 2024.
- The second single "Pathikichu" was released on 19 January 2025.
- The third single "Thaniye" was released on 5 February 2025.
Release:
- Vidaamuyarchi was released in theatres on 6 February 2025.
- The film has a running time of 150 minutes and is certified U/A.
- Netflix acquired the post-theatrical streaming rights for ₹100 crore.
- Red Giant Movies acquired the distribution rights of the film for Tamil Nadu.
- Sree Gokulam Movies acquired distribution rights for Kerala.
- Swagath Enterprises acquired distribution rights for Karnataka.
- Asian Suresh Entertainment LLP acquired distribution rights for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and Sri Lakshmi Movies for Ceded Area.
Controversies:
- The film faced controversy when a video of Ajith's car accident during filming was released.
- Paramount Pictures filed a notice alleging similarities to Breakdown, seeking damages for intellectual property infringement.
- The film's postponement from its initial January 2025 release date also drew criticism.
Reception:
- Critical reception has been mixed, with some reviewers praising Ajith's performance and the film's action, while others criticised the slow pace and lack of emotional depth.
