In the sequel to the popular Jigarthanda, director Karthik Subbaraj presents Jigarthanda DoubleX, a continuation of the unique blend of gangster and movie narratives that captivated audiences in 2014. Transporting us back to the 70s, the film introduces a new mobster, Pandiyan (played by Raghava Lawrence), who emerges as a significant figure in the movie industry, drawing parallels to the legendary Clint Eastwood.

Diverging from the initial installment, where the filmmaker resisted collaboration with the gangster, here, portrayed by SJ Suryah, a willing partnership unfolds. However, the plot takes an intriguing turn with the introduction of Shine Tom Chacko as the antagonist, scheming to permanently remove the gangster from the picture.

Set against the backdrop of the 70s, Subbaraj crafts a narrative interweaving cinematic aspirations with underworld rivalries. Raghava Lawrence's portrayal of Pandiyan injects humor and audacity into the storyline as he aspires to make it big in the movie industry. The choice of the 70s setting adds a nostalgic charm, immersing the audience in the era of iconic cinema.

The film not only pays homage to 70s cinema but also skillfully navigates the blurred lines between reality and the world of movies. Shifting the narrative focus from internal conflicts within the filmmaker-gangster duo to external threats maintains audience engagement and investment in the characters' fates.

Direction:

In "Jigarthanda DoubleX," Karthik Subbaraj, the creative force behind the film, takes a sincere and politically persuasive approach, delving deep into the world of political conflicts within his narrative. Initially catering to a commercial and audience-friendly style, the film undergoes a transformative shift, leading to a distinct and unconventional journey. The second half of the film guides the audience through a profound emotional rollercoaster. Subbaraj goes beyond crafting a political narrative, introducing layers of meaning through metaphors involving elephants, character dynamics, and an overarching theme of cinema.

Performance:

Raghava Lawrence delivers his best performance in a role that breaks away from his typical characters, showcasing excellent body language and dialogue delivery. SJ Suryah provides solid support with a measured performance, showcasing his emotional depth. Nimisha Sajayan impresses as Lawrence's onscreen wife, excelling in her role. Despite this, other characters lack significant involvement.

Cinematography:

S. Thirunanavukkarasu's superb cinematography brings out excellent color tones and impressive angles in the film. He skillfully encapsulates the atmosphere of 1970s Clint Eastwood spaghetti westerns while preserving the unique essence of Madurai, showcasing the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountain ranges near the tribal village. 

Music:

The music, composed by Santhosh Narayanan, is exceptional and adds significant value to the overall execution of the movie. The way the music enhances the film is truly commendable.

Summary:

In summary, "Jigarthanda DoubleX"  is a successful showcase of Karthik Subbaraj's growth as a writer and filmmaker. Demonstrating prowess in handling distinctive subjects within the gangster genre, the film remains a compelling watch in theaters, attesting to Subbaraj's evolving expertise.