Last updated: 24 Apr 2026


Tamil · Crime, Drama
2h 33m · 3 Jun 2016
Music: Santhosh Narayanan | DOP: Sivakumar Vijayan | Writer: Karthik Subbaraj
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
Iraivi is a Tamil drama that explores the lives of three men and the women in their lives, focusing on the impact of male ego and toxic masculinity on relationships. The narrative delves into themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices of the female characters as they navigate emotional turmoil caused by their partners. The story is a poignant commentary on gender dynamics and the societal pressures faced by women.
Iraivi is a deeply emotional and socially conscious film that stands out for its mature storytelling and strong thematic concerns. The screenplay is layered and non-linear, effectively weaving together the lives of the characters to present a cohesive narrative about the consequences of male arrogance and the resilience of women. The pacing is deliberate, with the first half setting up the characters and their conflicts, while the second half intensifies the drama and delivers a powerful climax.
The film's music, composed by Santhosh Narayanan, complements the narrative beautifully. The songs are situational and enhance the emotional depth of the scenes without disrupting the flow. The background score is subtle yet impactful, adding to the mood and tension throughout the film. Sivakumar Vijayan's cinematography captures the urban milieu with a realistic and gritty tone, supporting the film's grounded storytelling.
Overall, Iraivi is a compelling drama that balances its social message with engaging character arcs. While the pacing might feel slow to some viewers, the film's emotional weight and strong performances make it a memorable cinematic experience.
S. J. Suryah: Delivered a nuanced portrayal of a flawed man grappling with his ego and its repercussions.
Vijay Sethupathi: Brought depth and subtlety to his role, effectively conveying internal conflict.
Bobby Simha: Offered a raw and intense performance that added to the film's dramatic tension.
Kamalinee Mukherjee: Portrayed her character with emotional authenticity and strength.
Anjali: Delivered a heartfelt and convincing performance, highlighting the struggles of her character.
Pooja Devariya: Provided a subtle and impactful supporting role.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Karthik Subbaraj's direction is confident and sensitive, handling complex themes with nuance and care. His writing is bold, focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of his characters, especially the women, which is a departure from conventional Tamil cinema. The film's narrative structure and character development reflect his distinct storytelling style.
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Our Rating
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| Award | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Filmfare Awards South | Best Supporting Actor | Bobby Simha won for his performance |
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 70% |
| Neutral | 20% |
| Negative | 10% |
Critics praised Iraivi for its mature handling of gender dynamics and strong performances. The Hindu highlighted its emotional intensity and social relevance, while Times of India appreciated the screenplay and direction. Firstpost noted the film's bold narrative and impactful message. Overall, the critical reception was positive, emphasizing the film's depth and artistic merit.
Final Box-Office Result
Iraivi released on 3 June 2016 (2016).
Iraivi is declared a FLOP at the box office.
Iraivi OTT release date not announced yet.
Iraivi directed by Karthik Subbaraj. Produced by C. V. Kumar, K. E. Gnanavelraja.
Iraivi stars S. J. Suryah, Vijay Sethupathi, Bobby Simha, Kamalinee Mukherjee, Anjali.
Tollybo rates Iraivi 3.5/5. Verdict: FLOP.
Music for Iraivi composed by Santhosh Narayanan.
Iraivi — Genre: Crime, Drama, Runtime: 153 minutes, Language: Tamil.