Top critic
The Hindu
Film review ·
Some nice bits can't save a grindingly ordinary movie...


Dhanush's charm carries a thin, formulaic masala that offers little beyond fan service.
Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.
Critic consensus
Critical reception for Maari is largely mixed-to-negative, with most reviewers describing it as a formulaic masala film that falls short of expectations given the Dhanush-Balaji Mohan pairing. Critics consistently noted that the film works almost exclusively for dedicated Dhanush fans, with his screen presence and Anirudh's music cited as the primary draws. Several reviewers expressed disappointment that Dhanush, following acclaimed pan-India work, returned to a role offering little creative scope. Common criticisms centered on the film's lack of originality and narrative substance, with only occasional humor and mass moments deemed noteworthy.
3 not-rated reviews aren't plotted
Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10
AI-generated summary of 8 critic reviews · may contain errors
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Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated
Top critic
Film review ·
Some nice bits can't save a grindingly ordinary movie...
Film review ·
Maari is a very honest masala flick made to satisfy the mass audience. Verdict: Enjoy the unlimited mass elements offered by Dhanush and Anirudh!
Film review ·
This is no VIP or Anegan. Maari has nothing new to tell or nothing interesting to hold the audience other than its leading man's earnest efforts. This film is strictly for Dhanush fans. Watch it for Dhanush and Dhanush only. And if you don't like the actor, then stay clear of Maari!
Film review ·
On a whole Maari is a regular masala movie, the ones which hardcore Dhanush fans would love to watch. What's more pricking is that, Dhanush after establishing name across Pan India as a man who could pull of a blinder with Raanjhaana, 3, Shamitabh is back in a role which has little scope for experimentation, something which he always embraced with. For a man of his caliber, the expectation from an ordinary fan is always sky high and Maari falls short of that.
Film review ·
On the whole, Maari is sure to appeal to die-hard Dhanush fans. For others though, it's strictly average entertainment.
Film review ·
Yes, Dhanush has to guts to play a man with many shades of grey, his looks blending with the character. Perhaps, he knows that it may not be easy for him to be the conventional hero. But this is the hero the masses appear to adore, and the film cherishes and celebrates the anti-social in society -- a disturbing trend though in Tamil cinema.
Film review ·
If you're an ardent fan of Dhanush, then this movie is for you. The music and punchlines will make you love this commercial entertainer. But only if you love everything Dhanush does.
Film review ·
A couple of mass moments and some quirky humor apart, there's nothing in Maari to justify the much-anticipated Balaji Mohan- Dhanush collaboration. But, the delirious fans seem to think otherwise.
Credits
DhanushMaari
Kajal AggarwalSridevi
Vijay YesudasArjun Kumar
Robo ShankarSani Kizhamai
Kaali VenkatConstable
Anirudh Ravichander
Mime Gopi
Sriranjini
Kalloori VinothTamil films like Maari