First 30 mins doesn't work, jarring sounds: Jyotika admits Kanguva flaws, reacts to negative reviews

Actor Suriya’s latest film Kanguva has been embroiled in a storm of online criticism since its release, but his wife, actress Jyotika, has taken to social media to defend the film and her husband.

In a heartfelt post, Jyotika, addressing herself as a cinema lover and not just as Suriya’s wife, expressed pride in the film's ambitious vision, urging fans and critics alike to recognize the effort behind it.

"Kanguva," directed by Siva, is a grand historical epic set 1,500 years ago, showcasing Suriya in a role that promises to push boundaries. Despite being hailed as a visually stunning 3D spectacle, the film has faced significant criticism, especially over its pacing and the first half, with many viewers calling it "boring" and accusing it of wasting their time. Some even went as far as claiming that the movie tarnished Suriya's career.

Jyotika, however, didn’t hold back in defending the film’s bold concept and the tireless work that went into its making. "I pen this note as Jyotika and a cinema lover and not actor Suriya’s wife," she began, reaffirming her personal connection to the film. "Kanguva - a spectacle in cinema. So proud of you Suriya, for the actor you are and how you dare to dream to take cinema forward."

While acknowledging the flaws in the first 30 minutes — particularly the "jarring" sound and slower pacing — Jyotika pointed out that such imperfections are common in experimental films. "Definitely the first 1/2 hr doesn’t work n the sound is jarring! Flaws r a part of most Indian films, so that’s only fair, especially in this kind of film wherein one experiments largely!" she wrote. "But to be true, it’s an absolute cinematic experience! Camera work and execution never before seen in Tamil cinema, @vetripalanisamy."

"What about Kanguva's positives? The women’s action sequence in the second half and the young boy’s love and betrayal for Kanguva? I think they forgot about the good parts while reviewing," she said. 

The actress also questioned the motives behind some of the harsh criticism, suggesting there might be a coordinated effort to undermine the film. "It’s sad that they chose this much negativity for Kanguva on day 1, even before the first show was over... seemed more like multiple group propagandas," Jyotika stated, adding, "It actually deserves an applause for the concept and effort taken by the team to create 3D and such a magnificent visual."

"Be proud, Team Kanguva, as the ones commenting negatively are doing just that and nothing else to their credit to uplift cinema!"

Despite the criticism, Kanguva has also garnered praise from a section of the audience, with some calling it a "superb" experience and appreciating its visual grandeur. The film, produced by K. E. Gnanavel Raja under the Studio Green banner, is one of the largest international releases in recent times, reaching audiences across 38 languages globally.

In Kanguva, Suriya plays the titular character, a warrior in a historical epic filled with intense action, drama, and intricate storytelling. The movie also stars Bollywood actor Bobby Deol as the antagonist, with Disha Patani playing the female lead. The supporting cast includes seasoned actors like Yogi Babu, Prakash Raj, KS Ravikumar, and Jagapathi Babu.

While some have called Kanguva a cinematic marvel, others remain sceptical about its execution. The film’s intense visual effects, particularly in 3D, have been praised, and its ambitious scope has undoubtedly set high expectations for Tamil cinema. But in a film where risks were taken, the divide between love and hate is as epic as the story on screen.