Vijay Sethupathi’s Ace premieres to positive reviews and audience praise
Ace, starring Vijay Sethupathi, opens May 23 with a blend of comedy, crime, and romance. Critics praise performances and screenplay in this Tamil film.
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Vijay Sethupathi returned to theaters with Ace, which premiered worldwide on May 23, delivering a mix of humor, crime, and romance in a 160-minute Tamil-language feature. Directed by Arumuga Kumar, the film has been met with largely favorable reactions from both audiences and critics.
Set in Malaysia, Ace combines crime elements with comedy and light drama. The story unfolds with fast pacing, driven by eccentric characters and an unconventional narrative style. Viewers have noted the film’s screenplay as a key strength, particularly the final act, which includes a 40-minute sequence that has been widely appreciated for maintaining momentum and engagement.
Sethupathi, returning to a less intense and more comedic role, has received praise for his performance and physical transformation. His interaction with Yogi Babu has emerged as one of the highlights, with audience feedback spotlighting their timing and exchange of dialogues. While some reviewers commented on the plot’s predictability, the execution has been credited with keeping the story engaging.
Rukmini Vasanth, making her Tamil debut, plays a central role in the film and has earned commendations for her portrayal. Her on-screen pairing with Sethupathi has been described as effective, with audiences acknowledging the novelty of their dynamic.
The narrative introduces a heist angle at the interval mark, which shifts the tone and injects fresh energy into the second half. Sequences following the so-called “Poker Sequence” have been singled out for their comedic appeal, drawing consistent laughter from viewers.
Critics have pointed out minor drawbacks, including a few pacing inconsistencies and moments where the film feels reminiscent of older cinema. However, these observations are generally tempered by the consensus that the film succeeds in its objective of delivering an easygoing, entertaining experience.
Ace features music composed by Justin Prabhakaran and background score by Sam C. S. Cinematography is handled by Karan B. Rawat, with editing by Fenny Oliver. The film is produced under the banner of Arumuga Kumar’s production house and has been shot extensively across various locations in Malaysia.
With strong audience engagement and favorable word of mouth, Ace is positioned as a successful summer release. Its straightforward plot, complemented by energetic performances and a comedic tone, has helped the film connect with family audiences.
