Baththa Twitter review: 7 tweets you must read before watching Vijay Sethupathi's Tamil action movie in theatres

Vijay Sethupathi's highly anticipated movie Baththa hit the theatres today, October 1. Directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, the Tamil action movie stars Vijay Sethupathi and Lijomol Jose in the lead roles. The movie is presented by renowned filmmaker Atlee. Now, fans have watched the film during the first-day, first-show screenings, and the social media verdict is out.

Set in 1986 Madras, Baththa follows a feared local gangster whose life takes an unexpected turn after he gets trapped inside a deserted school restroom by an eight-year-old boy. What starts as a strange situation gradually turns into an unusual relationship between the two.

Netizens review Baththa

Early reactions on X, formerly Twitter, suggest that Baththa is not a straightforward gangster drama. Several viewers have highlighted the film's mix of humour, emotions and crime elements, while Vijay Sethupathi's performance and the young actor's role have emerged as major talking points.


Here are seven social media reactions you should read before deciding whether to watch Baththa in theatres.

Calling it a "solid movie", one of the users wrote, "A very different gangster film that sets itself apart with a terrific mix of comedy, gangs and emotions. Balaji Tharaneetharan delivers a lovely and enjoyable film that starts off slow, picks up very well towards the interval and arrives with a superb 2nd half. Lot of laughs and theatre moments guaranteed."



The viewer felt that the film takes some time to build momentum but becomes more engaging around the interval before delivering a stronger second half. The final 30 minutes were particularly praised, with the user noting that the director manages to create entertaining moments from seemingly small details.

Vijay Sethupathi's performance gets praise

Another detailed review gave Baththa a 3.5 rating and described it as a period action drama rather than a conventional gangster movie.

The viewer praised Vijay Sethupathi for bringing different shades to the character, from his intimidating gangster persona and humour to his more vulnerable and emotional moments. The review noted that his performance helps carry the character's transformation throughout the film.

Lijomol Jose's portrayal of Baththa's wife was also appreciated for adding warmth to the family portions of the story.



The unusual relationship between Baththa and the young boy appears to be one of the film's biggest attractions. Social media reactions have repeatedly mentioned the chemistry between Vijay Sethupathi and the child actor.

Another called the combination of the actor and the young performer a major positive and said their scenes bring both humour and emotion to the film.

Sai Abhyankkar's music steals the show

Music composer Sai Abhyankkar has also received praise from viewers. One social media user called the film a "good fun watch" and highlighted the music as one of its biggest positives.



"Expected a gangster drama, but it’s a fun entertainer. Vijay Sethupathi carries the role Very well. VJS & Kid combo worked well. Fun filled Emotional. Sai Abhyankkar’s music big plus"

More about Baththa

The film's period setting has also impressed some viewers. Baththa is set in 1986 Madras, and audiences have pointed to the costumes, locations and production design as elements that help establish the retro atmosphere.

Cinematographer Selva Kumar's work has also been praised for giving the movie a warm vintage look. Several reactions suggest that the film uses its gangster setup to explore a more personal story. The relationship between Baththa and the child gradually brings in themes of family, responsibility and humanity.

However, not every reaction was completely positive. The detailed 3.5-star review pointed out that the film's 2-hour-40-minute runtime could feel lengthy in certain portions.




The slow-burn treatment and dialogue-heavy middle sections may not work equally well for viewers expecting continuous action. However, the same review praised the performances, retro setting, music and unusual central relationship.

Written and directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, Baththa revolves around a feared gangster whose life changes after he becomes trapped inside a deserted school toilet because of an eight-year-old boy.

The unusual situation forces the gangster to confront loneliness, fear and vulnerability. As the story progresses, his relationship with the child becomes the emotional centre of the film.

Baththa marks the third collaboration between Vijay Sethupathi and Balaji Tharaneetharan after Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom and Seethakaathi. Stay tuned to see how it performs over the weekend.