Vijay Sethupathi’s Tamil period drama ‘Baththa’ has released in theatres worldwide on October 1, opening to mixed-to-positive reactions from audiences.

Directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, the film is set in 1986 Madras and follows a feared local rowdy who gets trapped in an abandoned school restroom by a young boy. Cut off from his gang, he forms an unusual bond with the child through the restroom door.

The film received a U/A certificate from the CBFC. It is presented by Atlee’s A For Apple Studios along with Cine1 Studios, with music by Sai Abhyankkar. Lijomol Jose plays the female lead.

Early reactions praise Sethupathi’s performance and the film’s emotional first half, though some viewers found the second half average. The song “Magale” and the unexpected ending have been highlights for many.

Panorama Studios and Zee Studios are handling the overseas release. ‘Baththa’ marks the third collaboration between Sethupathi and Tharaneetharan after ‘Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom’ and ‘Seethakaathi’.