402. Web-series Reviews – 217

More web-series reviews…

Seruppugal Jaakirathai – Came out in 2025. A pair of ordinary slippers becomes the center of chaos when a diamond smuggler uses them as a hiding spot, triggering a frantic search across town.

A review from M9.news...

What Is the Show About?

Rathinam, a desperate smuggler, conceals a diamond in his slipper during a police raid, inadvertently swapping it with Thyagarajan’s. Thyagarajan, a mild-mannered auditor, and his son, Ilango, discover the swap after the funeral but promptly lose the slipper in a series of comical mishaps. The slipper passes through various eccentric characters, each adding their own chaotic element to the search.

Performances

Singam Puli, the only familiar face in the show packed with newcomers, does what’s expected of him with his trademark dialogue delivery. There’s nothing new that he does with it, though; he easily sleepwalks through it. Vivek Rajgopal needs more time to develop a flair for comedy; he’s sillier than funny here. While Ira Aggarwal looks good, the role provides her hardly anything substantial. 

Analysis

Seruppugal Jaakirathai, as the title suggests, has an uncanny premise. The protagonist, Thyagarajan, an auditor, and his son Ilango are on the hunt for a pair of slippers in which a smuggler Rathinam has hidden diamonds while being chased by the cops. In pursuit of the slippers, the father-son duo head to a local bar and a brothel and ultimately land at a funeral, where all hell breaks loose.

Plots like these work when the director is skilled enough to integrate a unique bunch of characters in an atmosphere where the humour flows in organically. The creators opt for a slapstick treatment, weaving in one exaggerated scenario after the other, where the characters react hysterically to the issues thrown at them. It struggles to settle into any rhythm, and the chaos is barely funny.

While the story revolves around a crime, the show is ultimately a funeral comedy that brings together cops, gangsters, corrupt government officials and a family that’s not exactly grieving a patriarch’s death. If there’s a strength that the director Rajesh Soosairaj clearly exhibits, it’s his knack for creating wacky characters with unique identities. There are unusual moments that elicit laughter.

Ilango (Thyagarajan’s son) is keen to prove his worthiness to his father but makes a mockery of himself and is wooed by a deceased man’s granddaughter. Thyagarajan’s wife makes a gangster lift suitcases at her house and gets a cop to place a cylinder in her kitchen. A deceased man is a mute witness to the manipulation around him, as the heirs debate over property even before the final rites.

Though select portions and situations in the show are strangely comical, it is quite apparent that the director is only finding excuses to stretch the runtime. The screenplay is too straightforward and predictable to keep you glued. It just doesn’t know what to do with its premise, losing its way building on an outrageous idea. It doesn’t have the legs to be a 2 hour long show at all.

Despite a decent start, Seruppugal Jaakirathai is lazily written, where there’s no attempt to make a viewer care for the proceedings. Everyone is lost in their chaos. Although it’s alright to have a show full of flawed, eccentric characters, the director should ideally make the viewer root for them at some level. After a point, you stare at your watch more than worrying about the hunt for diamond-laden slippers.

Seruppugal Jaakirathai is mediocrity personified, reiterating how Tamil digital space has a long way to go before it understands the grammar and the potential of the medium. There’s nothing that works in its favour.

My Take – An ok watch!

 

Reacher – 3rd season came out in 2025. Itinerant former military policeman Jack Reacher solves crimes and metes out his own brand of street justice. Based on the novels by Lee Child.

A review from IMDB...

First of all "Reacher" is definitely a much better adaptation of Lee Child's novels than the Tom Cruise movies. Second, Alan Ritchson, is about as close as you can get to a visual representation of the character. Perhaps other actors were considered initially, but Ritchson is by far the best choice.

The problem the show is facing is the uneven quality of direction, writing, casting and yes, acting as well. Nevermind the overall production values. It has so far been all over the place in those terms.

Now, considering some of the horrible, low quality and downright insulting content Amazon Studios has pumped out over the years ("Rings of Power" and "The Wheel Of Time", come to mind), "Reacher" has been a success for the company, delivered at a fraction of the cost of those other shows. More than that, it has also been a profitable one and has expanded the subscription base.

The show seems poised to be a mainstay on the roster of Amazon Prime content for at least a few more seasons (a fourth season is already in the works).

However, the fluctuating quality of the show could become problematic, (just ask Erik Kripke and "The Boys"), especially if the powers that be at Amazon want to get as much mileage out of the series as possible.

So far the only show on Prime that was pretty much consistent throughout its run in terms of overall quality was "Bosch" and even "Bosch Legacy".

As it stands, "Reacher" has now had a solid, entertaining first season, a really bad, downgraded second one and an okay, somewhat improved third season (except the fourth episode which was awful). Being all over the place like that doesn't bode well for longevity. We will see what happens with upcoming seasons.

PS Word to the wise, maybe in the future Alan Ritchson should keep his politics and opinions to himself, at least as long as he continues in "Reacher". Alienating your fans never turns out well...

My Take – Worth a watch!

 

Vikatakavi – Came out in 2024. 1970s Amaragiri residents suffer a memory-robbing plague. Detective Rama Krishna investigates the mysterious affliction but risks falling victim himself.

A review from IMDB...

In a world overflowing with streaming options, Vikkatakavi stands out as a masterclass in storytelling, world-building, and performances. The series transports viewers to the captivating realm of Amaragiri, a richly imagined world that feels as alive and immersive as it is mysterious.

The creators of Vikkatakavi have poured immense effort into crafting Amaragiri. From its lush landscapes to its intricate societal hierarchies, every detail feels meticulously planned and thoughtfully executed. The setting isn't just a backdrop-it's a living, breathing character that adds depth and dimension to the narrative.

The casting team deserves high praise for assembling a stellar ensemble. Each actor fits their role like a glove, delivering nuanced performances that make their characters unforgettable. The protagonists are compelling, the antagonists formidable, and even the supporting characters leave a lasting impact. Their arcs are not only well-etched but also brimming with authenticity and emotional resonance.

If you're worried about a mid-season slump, Vikkatakavi will put your fears to rest. The intricate screenplay flows seamlessly, with each episode delivering gripping plot hooks that keep you eagerly pressing "next." There's no filler here-every scene serves a purpose, whether it's unraveling a mystery, deepening character relationships, or escalating the stakes.

The series maintains a perfect balance between action, drama, and suspense. There's no lag or unnecessary exposition; instead, the plot moves at a brisk yet comfortable pace, keeping audiences engaged without overwhelming them. Twists and turns are masterfully interwoven, ensuring you're always on the edge of your seat.

Final Verdict Vikkatakavi isn't just a webseries-it's an experience. With its exceptional world-building, top-notch performances, and a screenplay that refuses to let go, it's a must-watch for anyone craving a blend of epic storytelling and modern-day binge-worthiness.

My Take – Worth a watch

Adios till next time😊!!