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Anniyan (2005) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo

Last updated: 24 Apr 2026

Anniyan (2005) Review

Released on 17 Jun 2005, Anniyan (2005) is a Tamil action, crime, drama movie starring Vikram, Sadha, Prakash Raj. Directed by Shankar. Unable to bear the growing corruption in society and rejection from his love interest, a meek lawyer becomes diagnosed with multiple personality disorder due to which the personalities of a vigilante killer and a metrosexual start existing within him. Our Rating: 3.5/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT. Runtime: 3h 1m.

Anniyan
SUPER HIT

Anniyan(2005)

Tamil · Action, Crime, Drama

3h 1m · 17 Jun 2005

Music: Harris Jayaraj | DOP: V. Manikandan, Ravi Varman | Writer: Sujatha Rangarajan

ActionDramaThrillerCrime

Ratings

IMDbIMDb8.4
LetterboxdLetterboxd3.9
Metacritic UserMetacritic User0
TMDBTMDB73
Rotten Tomatoes AudienceRotten Tomatoes Audience89

Our Rating

3.5

📖 Story

Anniyan follows the story of Ramanujam Iyengar, an honest and law-abiding lawyer who becomes frustrated with the rampant corruption and social apathy around him. Struggling with his inability to bring about change through legal means, he develops a dissociative identity disorder, creating two alternate personalities: Anniyan, a vigilante who punishes wrongdoers with brutal justice, and Ambi, a timid and conformist persona. The film explores themes of justice, morality, and societal responsibility as Ramanujam's alter egos take over to cleanse society of its evils.

🔍 Analysis

Anniyan is a compelling blend of social drama and psychological thriller, crafted with Shankar's signature grandeur and visual flair. The screenplay effectively balances the narrative between the protagonist's multiple identities, maintaining suspense and emotional engagement throughout. The pacing is brisk, with the first half setting up the character's internal conflict and societal frustrations, while the second half escalates into intense action sequences and moral dilemmas.

The film's songs, composed by Harris Jayaraj, complement the narrative well, with memorable melodies that enhance the emotional depth without disrupting the flow. The background score is particularly notable for heightening tension during the vigilante sequences and underscoring the protagonist's psychological turmoil. Cinematography by V. Manikandan and Ravi Varman adds a polished, dynamic visual style that supports the film's dramatic and action elements.

Overall, Anniyan stands out for its ambitious storytelling, strong technical execution, and Vikram's versatile performance, making it a landmark film in Tamil cinema that combines entertainment with a thought-provoking message.

🎭 Performances

Vikram: Delivered a powerful and versatile portrayal of three distinct personalities, showcasing his range and commitment.

Sadha: Provided a convincing and heartfelt performance as the female lead, complementing Vikram's intensity.

Prakash Raj: Excelled as the antagonist, bringing a menacing yet nuanced presence to the role.

💪 Strengths & Weaknesses

✅

Strengths

  • ✓Strong and engaging screenplay
  • ✓Vikram's versatile performance
  • ✓High production values and technical finesse
  • ✓Effective background score and music
  • ✓Socially relevant themes
❌

Weaknesses

  • ✕Some pacing issues in the second half
  • ✕Occasional over-the-top action sequences
  • ✕Lengthy runtime

🎬 Direction & Writing

Shankar's direction is ambitious and visually grand, successfully blending social commentary with commercial elements. His writing effectively balances multiple genres and maintains audience interest through a complex narrative structure.

📰 Critic Reviews

No critic reviews found yet.

📰 Ratings Sources

SourceRating
IMDbIMDb
8.4
LetterboxdLetterboxd
3.9
Metacritic UserMetacritic User
0
TMDBTMDB
73
Rotten Tomatoes AudienceRotten Tomatoes Audience
89

Our Rating

3.5/5
★★★★★★★★★

💰 Box Office Collection

No collection data available yet.

🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards

No centers data available.

AwardCategoryNotes
Filmfare Awards SouthBest Actor (Vikram)Recognized for Vikram's outstanding performance
National Film AwardsBest Special EffectsAwarded for technical excellence

🏆 Records & Box Office

  • - Strong box office performance across Tamil Nadu and other South Indian states
  • - Noted for high opening collections and sustained theatrical run

😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics

TypeValue
Positive85%
Neutral10%
Negative5%

Critics

Critics praised Anniyan for its innovative storytelling, technical brilliance, and Vikram's transformative performance. The film was lauded for addressing social issues within a commercial format, though some noted minor flaws in pacing and length.

Final Box-Office Result

SUPER HIT

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

When did Anniyan release in theatres?▾

Anniyan released on 17 June 2005 (2005).

Is Anniyan a hit or flop?▾

Anniyan is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.

What is the budget of Anniyan?▾

Budget of Anniyan is approximately ₹20 Crore.

Where to watch Anniyan online? OTT release date?▾

Anniyan is available on Sun Nxt. OTT date will be updated soon.

Who directed Anniyan?▾

Anniyan directed by Shankar. Produced by V. Ravichandran.

Who are the main cast members of Anniyan?▾

Anniyan stars Vikram, Sadha, Prakash Raj, Vivek, Nedumudi Venu.

What is the Tollybo rating for Anniyan?▾

Tollybo rates Anniyan 3.5/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.

Who composed the music for Anniyan?▾

Music for Anniyan composed by Harris Jayaraj.

What is the genre and runtime of Anniyan?▾

Anniyan — Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Runtime: 181 minutes, Language: Tamil.

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