Vijay Sethupathi’s Tamil film Baththa released in theatres on October 1. The action drama is directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan. Early audience reactions on social media have been mixed to positive.

Viewers praised Sethupathi’s performance and the film’s dark comedy. The first half drew particular praise from many. Music composer Sai Abhyankkar also won appreciation for the background score.

Set in 1980s North Madras, the film follows a local rowdy locked in an abandoned school restroom. He forms an unusual bond with a young boy through the door.

Lijomol Jose, Santhy Balachandran and Vishnu Govindhan also star. The film is produced by Cine1 Studios, A for Apple Studios and Star Studio18. It had premiere screenings on September 30.

Directors Shankar, Nithilan Saminathan and Puri Jagannadh have praised the film. The release comes just before the Gandhi Jayanti weekend.

Baapofmovies reported that first-day-first-show reactions were positive. The film blends 1980s retro action with drama. Alongside Sethupathi, Lijomol Jose and Baby Sahasra Shree drew praise. Sai Abhyankkar’s song “Magale” also caught viewers’ attention.