‘Dragon’ a 2025 Tamil-language film directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, is an engaging coming-of-age drama that offers both entertainment and a socially relevant message. Written and directed by Marimuthu and produced by AGS Entertainment, the film stars Pradeep Ranganathan in the lead role. Alongside him, the film boasts stellar performances from Anupama Parameswaran, Kayadu Lohar, K. S. Ravikumar, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Mysskin, and others, each of whom adds depth to the narrative.
The movie follows the life of D. Ragavan, played by Pradeep, who leaves college with a significant number of backlogs. Despite this, he builds a successful life, only to find himself forced to return to college to clear his arrears. The plot explores themes of personal growth, the consequences of one’s choices, and societal pressures, making it a film that resonates with viewers from all walks of life.
At its core, ‘Dragon’ is a story of redemption and growth, showing how a young man, caught in the web of expectations and past mistakes, finds a way to change his future. The film touches on the often-overlooked issues faced by today’s youth; the pressure of academic success, the desire for acceptance, and the challenge of finding one's true path. The pacing is well-executed, with a mix of comedy, drama, and introspection, which keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
One of the most powerful aspects of ‘Dragon’ is its ability to balance humour with emotional depth. The film doesn’t fall into the trap of forced heroism; there’s no unnecessary elevation of the protagonist to unrealistic heights. Instead, it presents Ragavan as a relatable figure, a young man navigating the ups and downs of life, with a sincere attempt to make things right. The dialogues are natural, and the emotional moments are impactful, making it easy for the audience to connect with Ragavan’s journey.
The film's message is clear: the choices we make today shape our future, and it's never too late to change course
A key feature of ‘Dragon’ is its excellent use of humour. Comedy is placed thoughtfully throughout the film, offering light-hearted relief without feeling out of place. The humour never overshadows the emotional core of the film, but rather complements it, making the serious moments more meaningful. One particularly memorable scene is when Ragavan learns that he has passed his exams, this moment, combined with the light comedic timing, feels like a victory not just for the character, but for the audience too.
Pradeep delivers a gold-standard performance in ‘Dragon’, showcasing a wide emotional range. From the carefree and rebellious attitude of a young man to the responsible and introspective person he becomes, Ranganathan nails every aspect of his character. His performance is sincere, making Ragavan a character the audience can empathize with. The emotional stretch in the final act of the film is particularly poignant.
Anupama Parameswaran and Kayadu Lohar also shine in their roles, contributing significantly to the story. While Parameswaran’s character adds emotional depth and is central to Ragavan’s transformation, Lohar’s presence brings a unique touch to the film. The chemistry between Ranganathan and his co-stars is natural, making the relationships feel genuine and heartfelt.
The supporting cast, including K. S. Ravikumar, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Mysskin, and George Maryan, deliver solid performances that elevate the film. Mysskin and George Maryan, in particular, stand out for their ability to bring gravitas to their respective roles. Harshath Khan and VJ Siddhu, both YouTube sensations, fit perfectly into their roles, adding a refreshing dynamic to the ensemble cast.
Ashwath Marimuthu, known for his work on ‘Oh My Kadavule’, has once again proven his directorial skill in ‘Dragon’. His storytelling is fresh, with a perfect balance of commercial elements and deeper, introspective themes. The use of the "Kutty Dragon" character as a symbolic reflection of Ragavan’s past and present is a clever narrative device that adds layers to the story. This character helps Ragavan confront his regrets and transform his future, making it a key element in the film’s emotional core.
The director also shines in the way he utilizes his actors. Each actor is given space to shine in their respective roles, and there’s no attempt to overshadow the performances with unnecessary embellishments. This allows the film to maintain its grounded nature, which is crucial for the audience to connect with the characters.
Leon James, the composer, delivers a standout background score that complements the film's emotional beats. The music elevates key moments, and the songs are well-integrated into the narrative, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. The cinematography by Niketh Bommireddy captures the essence of the story, using visuals to further express the characters’ emotions and journeys.
What makes ‘Dragon’ stand out is its universal appeal. It’s a film that anyone can relate to, whether they’re young students navigating the pressures of academic life, adults reflecting on their choices, or anyone seeking a reminder of the importance of personal growth and redemption. The themes of the film transcend age and background, making it relevant to a wide audience.
The film's message is clear: the choices we make today shape our future, and it's never too late to change course. It reminds us that peace, self-awareness, and personal growth matter more than societal definitions of success.
At its core, ‘Dragon’ is a story of redemption and growth, showing how a young man, caught in the web of expectations and past mistakes, finds a way to change his future.
In conclusion, ‘Dragon’ is a film that combines excellent performances, engaging storytelling, and a heartfelt message. Director Ashwath Marimuthu has crafted a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a perfect blend of humour, emotion, and life lessons. With standout performances from Pradeep Ranganathan and the supporting cast, a powerful score by Leon James, and a well-paced narrative, ‘Dragon’ is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates meaningful cinema.
Overall, ‘Dragon’ is a solid film that leaves a lasting impression. I would rate it ‘‘3.75/5’’.
