Vaazhai

“The buildup to the climax is simply extraordinary. This is one of the best passages of cinema I have seen in recent times. Mari Selvaraj's Vaazhai is a work of terrifying cinematic beauty.”

“Mari Selvaraj's film is heartwarming and gut-wrenching in equal parts. Child actor Ponvel M as Sivanendhan is the show-stealer. The writing, cinematography, and music aid the story in leaving the intended impact.”

“Vaazhai is surely worth a watch for the story it brings, with Mari holding the film powerful and personal at the same time. The film deserves a watch on the big screen for the conviction with which Mari is able to tell his story, with technically strong product supported by excellent camerawork and solid score.”

“Vaazhai is effortlessly subversive, nonchalantly poignant, and characteristically uncompromising. Mari's films are well-planned, and well-executed, with a clear purpose for every beat. It is beautiful how Mari takes his time to make us understand love can't be dissected.”

“The film explores the sufferings of daily labourers and bloodthirsty owners”

“The trailer of 'Vaazhai' (Banana) hinted at a story of oppression and resilience in the backdrop of an exquisite setting and a touch of emotional drama.”

“It is easily a delightful deviation in Mari Selvaraj's filmography. High on quality, and beautifully emoted characters, Vaazhai shines in its treatment and becomes an ode to innocence.”

“A lovely representation of life which has all mixed emotions, realistic treatment with an engrossing screenplay. Barring some minor flaws, we get to travel along the characters, feel for their joyous and sorrowful situations.”

“Mari Selvaraj's most tender and deeply affecting tale yet”

“Vaazhai has got heart and looks the part, but it could've used a bit more grey in its village tableau. The film's so busy painting this black-and-white picture of the downtrodden versus the village bigwigs that it forgets to add some shades of grey, making it tougher to stay connected despite stellar performances from the young leads.”

“With Vaazhai, Mari Selvaraj — apart from showing you who he is — makes you smile, laugh, think, and leaves you with a lump in your throat. Vaazhai is as measured a story gets to be told in modern-day mainstream cinema. From how the frames are composed to how shots are juxtaposed, it's poetry in motion.”

“This is not just another Tamil film - it makes you laugh, cry and most importantly, think. This rural drama is based on true events.”