Then Chennai is a 2024 Tamil-language action thriller set in South Chennai. The film follows Jason, a former Navy officer who, after leaving his service, returns home to assist in managing his family’s bar alongside his uncle, Tony. Their lives take a tumultuous turn when a nefarious gang, led by the cunning Rudranath, targets their establishment amidst the chaos of the Covid-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, Jason discovers an abandoned child, leading him to cross paths with Dr. Mega, intertwining a heartfelt romantic subplot with the central narrative.
The film delves into themes of family loyalty, resilience, and the struggle to reclaim one’s legacy. Ranga, in his directorial debut, also stars as Jason, delivering a commendable performance. Riya Murugan portrays Dr. Mega with grace, while Nitin Mehta’s portrayal of Rudranath adds depth to the antagonist’s role. The cinematography by Sarathkumar Mohan captures the essence of South Chennai, and Jen Martin’s background score enhances the film’s intense sequences. Despite minor screenplay flaws, “Then Chennai” offers a fresh perspective on the city’s unexplored locales, making it a noteworthy addition to Tamil cinema.
