Super Deluxe (2019) is directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja. It is an audacious and meticulously layered film. The movie stands as a shining example of innovative Indian cinema. The film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Vijay Sethupathi, Fahadh Faasil, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ramya Krishnan, and Mysskin. It transcends conventional storytelling. It delivers a narrative that is both introspective and exhilarating.

At its core, Super Deluxe intertwines multiple storylines, each dealing with themes of morality, identity, and human frailty. The screenplay, crafted by Kumararaja alongside Nalan Kumarasamy, Mysskin, and Sekar Neelan, is an intricate tapestry of distinct narratives, each brimming with emotional depth and thought-provoking subtext.

1. Vijay Sethupathi as Shilpa

Vijay Sethupathi’s portrayal of Shilpa, a transgender woman returning to her estranged family, is nothing short of extraordinary. Shilpa’s journey is a poignant exploration of acceptance, identity, and societal prejudice. Sethupathi’s nuanced performance captures the vulnerability and resilience of a character grappling with rejection and love. Shilpa’s interactions, particularly with her son, form some of the film’s most tender moments, showcasing Kumararaja’s sensitivity towards the subject.

2. Fahadh Faasil and Samantha Ruth Prabhu as Mugil and Vaembu

The dysfunctional couple, Mugil and Vaembu, embroiled in the aftermath of a shocking incident, offers a darkly comic yet searing examination of marital discord and morality. Fahadh and Samantha’s natural chemistry drives this segment, with their arguments and reconciliations laced with biting humour and raw emotion. Samantha, in particular, delivers a powerful performance as Vaembu, a woman unflinchingly honest about her desires and flaws.

3. Ramya Krishnan as Leela

Ramya Krishnan commands the screen as Leela, a former adult film actress who must confront societal judgement while attempting to save her son. Her narrative delves into themes of redemption and maternal love, serving as a critique of the double standards and hypocrisy entrenched in patriarchal norms.

4. The Boys and the “Alien Subplot”

A group of young boys stumbling upon an unexpected discovery serves as a metaphorical journey into the loss of innocence. This subplot adds a whimsical yet eerie layer to the film, further expanding its thematic richness.

Thiagarajan Kumararaja’s direction is bold and uncompromising, weaving together disparate storylines with remarkable fluidity. The writing team deserves immense credit for their willingness to tackle taboo subjects such as pornography, sexuality, and gender identity with unflinching honesty. Despite the film’s heavy themes, its tone is delightfully unpredictable, oscillating between dark comedy, drama, and philosophical musings.

The dialogues are sharp, often oscillating between profound and irreverent, reflecting the complex, messy nature of human existence. This tonal fluidity is a testament to Kumararaja’s vision, supported by the collaborative writing effort.

The visual language of Super Deluxe, helmed by cinematographer P.S. Vinod and Nirav Shah, is striking. The framing and colour palette breathe life into the film’s chaotic world, enhancing the narrative’s emotional impact. Each shot feels deliberate, with the cinematography often serving as a silent narrator, revealing layers of meaning through visual symbolism.

Yuvan Shankar Raja’s music complements the film beautifully, with a score that accentuates its varied moods. From moments of tension to poignant revelations, the background score seamlessly blends with the narrative, enriching the viewing experience.

Every actor in Super Deluxe delivers a standout performance. Vijay Sethupathi’s turn as Shilpa is a career-defining moment, while Fahadh Faasil and Samantha Ruth Prabhu bring depth and relatability to their flawed characters. Ramya Krishnan’s magnetic screen presence ensures her character remains unforgettable, and Mysskin’s brief appearance adds a layer of intrigue.

What truly elevates Super Deluxe is its layered storytelling. Beneath its surface lies a wealth of allegory and metaphor, inviting viewers to engage with the film on multiple levels. It challenges societal norms, confronts prejudices, and asks uncomfortable questions about morality and human behaviour. The intertwining of these narratives is seamless, with each storyline adding to the film’s overarching commentary on life’s inherent complexities.

Super Deluxe is a masterclass in storytelling, blending audacity and sensitivity in equal measure. Thiagarajan Kumararaja and his team have created a cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. It is a film that demands active engagement, rewarding viewers with a narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.

For those who appreciate layered, unconventional cinema, Super Deluxe is a triumph. Its fearless exploration of taboo topics, coupled with its sharp writing, exceptional performances, and striking visuals, makes it one of the most memorable films of recent times. A true gem of Indian cinema.