There’s a mythological vibe pulsing through Retro from start to finish, and that’s what sets it apart—even though the core story is pretty straightforward. At its heart, it’s about a gangster, played by an absolutely magnetic Suriya, trying to leave behind a life of violence for the woman he loves, played by a solid Pooja Hegde. It’s a familiar setup, but director Karthik Subbaraj gives it his signature twist, layering it with symbolism and style that keeps things engaging for the most part.
The film holds its momentum with gritty visuals, stylish action, and a soundtrack that refuses to let your foot stay still—thanks to Santhosh Narayanan’s energetic score. Suriya is in top form, switching effortlessly between menace and divinity, adding real weight to his character. His screen presence alone keeps you invested, even when the story gets a bit indulgent.
But here’s the thing: after building so much tension and atmosphere, the film takes a turn in the final stretch that might leave some viewers feeling underwhelmed—or even betrayed. The climactic payoff leans a little too hard into metaphor and symbolism, and the writing in the final 15 minutes feels more self-indulgent than satisfying.
Still, Retro is far from a misfire. Karthik Subbaraj’s flair for stylish storytelling, combined with Suriya’s electric performance, keeps it watchable and often thrilling. It’s just that the film promises more than it ultimately delivers.