Kaithi (2019) is one of the most eagerly anticipated Indian films of its year, blending sleek action, relentless thriller pacing, and high-stakes crime drama. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, and starring Karthi, Narain, Arjun Das, and George Maryan, this Tamil-language film was released on 25 October 2019.
Movie Overview
Kaithi unfolds over one night, following Dilli—an ex-convict recently paroled—on his way to meet his daughter for the first time. His emotional reunion is interrupted when an injured police officer, Bejoy, enlists his help: deliver a group of drugged cops safely to the hospital. As they race through the darkness, a vicious drug cartel pursues them. The film is pure genre—no songs, no romance—just kinetic action, emotional stakes, and inventive storytelling.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Attribute Details
- Title: Kaithi
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Crime
- Language: Tamil
- Release Date: 25 October 2019
- Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
- Writer: Story by Lokesh Kanagaraj; Screenplay by Lokesh Kanagaraj & Pon Parthiban
Introduction
Announced after Lokesh’s successful debut *Maanagaram*, Kaithi raised expectations with its lean, edgy premise. Shot mostly at night, the film was crafted without typical Tamil film tropes—uninterrupted action, intense performances, and a story that progresses like a tight video game run. Its simultaneous release in Tamil (Kaithi) and Telugu (Khaidi) on 25 October 2019—Diwali weekend—was a bold move amid competition.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Plot Synopsis
The film begins with a massive drug bust under Inspector Bejoy’s supervision. To safeguard evidence, the seized narcotics are hidden beneath the commissioner’s office. Soon after, all attending officers are drugged during a retirement celebration, leaving only Bejoy conscious—and wounded. In desperation, he turns to Dilli, a convict just paroled, who reluctantly agrees to drive the incapacitated officers to safety. Meanwhile, the cartel’s goons, led by Adaikalam and Anbu, besiege the police station and chase Dilli’s lorry through moonlit roads. Amid firefights, improvisation, and brutal hand-to-hand combat, Dilli fights not only for the officers but for his chance to finally meet the daughter he’s never seen.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Cast & Crew
Lead Cast:
- Karthi as Dilli
- Narain as Inspector Bejoy
- Arjun Das as Anbu
- George Maryan as Napoleon (constable)
- Dheena as Kamatchi
- Harish Uthaman as Ada
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