ACE │ Now Streaming │ Amazon Prime
ACE, directed, written, and produced by Arumuga Kumar, marks another daring entry in Vijay Sethupathi’s oeuvre of complex antiheroes. Now streaming on Amazon Prime, the film follows Kannan (Vijay Sethupathi), a man chasing a fresh start abroad, only to find himself ensnared in a ruthless “shark circle” of ruthless criminals.
Plot Overview
- New Beginnings Turn Deadly: Eager to escape his past, Kannan relocates overseas in search of safety and opportunity.
- Dragged into the Underworld: An ill-fated encounter plunges him into a clandestine network where debts are collected with violence and betrayal is currency.
- A Daring Heist—and Its Curse: Desperate for freedom, Kannan orchestrates a high-risk heist that backfires, setting off a chain of vengeance that forces him to outwit foes and fate alike.
Stellar Cast & Memorable Performances
- Vijay Sethupathi (Kannan): Delivers a nuanced portrayal of a man teetering on the edge of desperation and defiance.
- Rukmini Vasanth (Rukku): Brings emotional depth as Kannan’s anchor to hope.
- Yogi Babu (Arivu): Provides sharp comic relief that contrasts the film’s darker moments.
- B. S. Avinash (Dharma) & Babloo Prithiveeraj (Raja Dorai): Embody the chilling enforcers of the shark circle.
- Divya Pillai (Kalpana): Imbues her role with strength and vulnerability.
- Ramesh Thilak (Chidambaram): Makes a memorable guest appearance that raises the stakes.
Direction, Writing & Music
Arumuga Kumar’s triple-duty as writer, director, and producer yields a tightly wound narrative that refuses to let up. His razor-sharp screenplay balances character-driven drama with pulse-pounding action. Complementing the tension is Sam C. S.’s score—a blend of haunting motifs and adrenaline-charged rhythms that underscore every twist.
Why You Should Watch
- Vijay Sethupathi’s Leading Turn: A masterclass in restrained intensity.
- Relentless Pacing: From the first scene to the final reveal, ACE never pauses for breath.
- Moral Ambiguity: Challenges viewers with questions of loyalty, desperation, and redemption.
- Top-Notch Production: Crisp cinematography and slick editing enhance the film’s immersive quality.
