Vijay Sethupathi’s new Tamil film Baththa has opened to strong reviews. The film premiered in theatres on October 1 ahead of the Gandhi Jayanti weekend. It is directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan.

The film is set in 1986 Madras. Sethupathi plays Baththa, a feared local don. His life changes when eight-year-old Sabari accidentally locks him in a school restroom. Lijomol Jose plays his wife Kanima.

Audience reviews have been positive, with ratings of 4 to 4.25 out of 5. Viewers have praised Sethupathi’s performance and the child actor Sabari. Sai Abhyankkar’s music has also won appreciation. Reviewers call it a superb mix of fun and emotion.

Filmmakers have joined the praise. Nithilan Saminathan called it a beautiful film. Puri Jagannadh praised Sethupathi’s script choices. The film tracking site OnlyKollywood rated it 4 out of 5, calling it a warm and thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience.

This is the third collaboration between Sethupathi and writer-director Balaji Tharaneetharan. The duo previously worked on Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom and Seethakaathi. Their films are known for mixing comedy with strong emotional cores.