Director Vetri Maaran has criticized films that promote hate and violence for commercial success. He believes such movies justify hate politics and divide people. Maaran stressed that cinema should not be a tool for political power. He praised films that tell authentic stories and highlight real emotions. His comments were made at the trailer launch of ‘Neelira’.

Vetri Maaran is one of the profound directors in the South, and he is busy with the production of ‘Arasan’ starring Silambarasan in the lead role. Meanwhile, director Vetri Maaran strongly criticised films that promote hate and violence during the trailer launch of ‘Neelira’ in Chennai.Without naming it directly, Vetri Maaran’s speech clearly hinted at ‘Dhurandhar,’ saying such films justify “hate politics” for commercial success. As per Cinema Vikatan, he pointed out that some movies are made only to earn hundreds of crores, and in that process, they glorify violence and divide people. He said, “Hundreds of crores are being chased by lifting up violence and hate,” and added, “Films are being used to justify hate politics.” His comments created a buzz as many saw it as an indirect attack on big-budget propaganda-driven cinema.

Vetri Maaran slams ‘Dhurandhar’ narrative

Continuing his speech, Vetri Maaran said certain films try to distract people from real issues like the struggles faced during demonetization. He stressed that movies should not be a tool in consolidating the collective memories used by others for their belief in obtaining political power. His criticisms of the movie “Dhurandhar” were more general in the sense that he warned other film producers not to use movies to spread hate, but, at the same time, he encouraged the viewing public to avoid those movies that have hate in them and to watch those movies that contain strong and correct messages.

Vetri Maaran on cinema responsibility, history, and real storytelling

The director further communicated the belief that history tends to be written by the victor, and that cinema could right the wrong. Vetri Maaran emphasized that people must tell their own stories; otherwise, false narratives will become the accepted truth. He said, “If we don’t tell our stories, our enemies will tell them, and that will become the truth.” He praised young creators from Eelam for documenting their pain and memories through art, calling it a strong democratic act.

‘Neelira’ highlights war emotions

Talking about the film ‘Neelira’, he said it does not sell hate or violence but still captures the deep impact of war. He detailed how even fleeting scenes in the movie – the dread when soldiers arrive at a home, or children playing with weapons – mirror profound emotional trauma. He noted, “This film doesn’t sell hate or violence,” and added that it brings audiences close to the real pain of war. Vetri Maaran appreciated how the film shows the psychological effects of war without relying on graphic scenes.

‘Neelira’ cast, crew, and release date

‘Neelira’ is directed by Sri Lankan Tamil filmmaker Somitharan, and it features Naveen Chandra and Sanath in the main roles. Its trailer has already gained attention, and the movie is set to release in theatres on April 3.