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Retro (2025) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo

Last updated: 20 May 2026

Retro (2025) Review

Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, Retro (2025) is a Tamil action, crime, drama film starring Suriya, Pooja Hegde, Joju George. A man with a violent past seeks a fresh start, but the life he left behind resurfaces, forcing him to face old conflicts and redefine his future. Our Rating: 2/5. Verdict: DISASTER. Released: 1 May 2025. Runtime: 2h 42m.

Retro
DISASTER

Retro(2025)

Love. Laughter. War.

Tamil · Action, Crime, Drama

2h 42m · 1 May 2025

Music: Santhosh Narayanan | DOP: Shreyaas Krishna | Writer: Karthik Subbaraj

RomanceActionDramaCrime

Ratings

123Telugu123Telugu2.75
M9 NewsM9 News1.75
Telugu360Telugu3602

Our Rating

2

📖 Story

Retro is a gripping Tamil thriller that revolves around a mysterious incident that unravels the lives of multiple characters interconnected by fate. The story delves into themes of time, memory, and justice, with Suriya playing a complex protagonist caught in a web of suspense and emotional turmoil. The narrative structure employs non-linear storytelling, gradually revealing secrets and motives that keep the audience engaged throughout.

🔍 Analysis

Retro stands out with its intricate screenplay that balances a tight narrative with moments of emotional depth. The first half sets a compelling tone with brisk pacing and well-crafted suspense sequences, while the second half deepens the mystery and delivers impactful twists that elevate the story. Karthik Subbaraj's direction shines in maintaining tension without sacrificing character development.

The film's music by Santhosh Narayanan complements the mood perfectly, with songs that blend seamlessly into the narrative rather than interrupting it. The background score is particularly effective in heightening the thriller elements, adding layers of intensity during key moments. Cinematography by Shreyaas Krishna captures the atmospheric settings with a stylish yet grounded approach.

Though the film's pacing occasionally slows in the mid-section, the overall flow remains engaging. The songs, while fewer in number, are memorable and enhance the emotional beats without feeling forced. Retro is a well-rounded thriller that combines technical finesse with strong storytelling, making it a noteworthy addition to Tamil cinema.

🎭 Performances

Suriya: Powerful and nuanced, Suriya delivers a layered portrayal that anchors the film.

Pooja Hegde: Offers a strong and emotive performance, complementing the lead effectively.

Joju George: Impressive as the antagonist, bringing intensity and credibility to the role.

Jayaram: Solid supporting role with subtlety and depth.

Vidhu: Noteworthy performance adding emotional weight.

Nassar: Veteran presence with commanding screen presence.

💪 Strengths & Weaknesses

✅

Strengths

  • ✓Intricate and engaging screenplay
  • ✓Strong performances, especially by Suriya and Joju George
  • ✓Effective background score enhancing suspense
  • ✓Stylish cinematography
  • ✓Well-integrated music and songs
❌

Weaknesses

  • ✕Pacing dips slightly in the mid-section
  • ✕Some narrative complexity may confuse casual viewers

🎬 Direction & Writing

Karthik Subbaraj delivers a taut and stylish thriller with a well-balanced mix of suspense and emotional depth. His direction ensures that the complex narrative remains engaging and the characters well fleshed out, maintaining audience interest throughout.

📰 Critic Reviews

M9 NewsM9 News

Joke On Audience

Telugu360Telugu360

Click read full review for detailed breakdown.

123telugu123telugu

On the whole, Retro is a love-action drama that clicks in parts but falters in execution. Suriya’s performance and the music are definite strengths, but the film is let down by its muddled storytelling and an underwhelming second half. What starts with promise eventually fizzles out. Apart from Suriya loyalists, others…

📰 Ratings Sources

SourceRating
M9 NewsM9 News
1.75
Telugu360Telugu360
2
123Telugu123Telugu
2.75

Our Rating

2/5
★★★★★★★

💰 Box Office Collection

No collection data available yet.

🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards

No centers data available.

No awards data available.

😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics

TypeValue
Positive65%
Neutral25%
Negative10%

Critics

Critics praised Retro for its gripping narrative, strong performances, and technical finesse. The film was lauded for its ability to maintain suspense and deliver emotional impact, though some noted the complexity of the plot as a potential barrier for casual viewers.

Final Box-Office Result

DISASTER

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

When did Retro release in theatres?▾

Retro released on 1 May 2025 (2025).

Is Retro a hit or flop?▾

Retro is declared a DISASTER at the box office.

Where to watch Retro online? OTT release date?▾

Retro is available on Netflix from 29 May 2025.

Who directed Retro?▾

Retro directed by Karthik Subbaraj. Produced by Suriya, Jyothika.

Who are the main cast members of Retro?▾

Retro stars Suriya, Pooja Hegde, Joju George, Jayaram, Vidhu.

What is the Tollybo rating for Retro?▾

Tollybo rates Retro 2/5. Verdict: DISASTER.

Who composed the music for Retro?▾

Music for Retro composed by Santhosh Narayanan.

What is the genre and runtime of Retro?▾

Retro — Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Runtime: 162 minutes, Language: Tamil.

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