Director: Anand Shankar
Writer: Anand Shankar, S. Ramakrishnan
Genre: Action, Thriller
Starring: Vishal, Arya, Mirnalini Ravi, Mamta Mohandas, Prakash Raj
Runtime: 154 minutes
Language: Tamil
Box Office: ₹50+ crore (approx.)
Filming Locations: Chennai, Hyderabad, Dubai
Overview
Enemy (2021) is a Tamil action thriller film directed by Anand Shankar. The movie revolves around childhood friends turned enemies with espionage and betrayal at play. The movie marks Anand’s return to the directorial seat after the Iru Mugan film. Featuring Vishal and Arya in intense action packed roles, this movie defines high octane action.
Using a mix of sophisticated emotional sequences and irrational psychological games, Enemy deliveres fast-paced thrilling action with gripping performances from its leads.
Plot Summary
Chozhan (Vishal) and Rajiv (Arya) are childhood friends who grew up together in Ooty. Rajiv’s father, an ex-police officer (Prakash Raj) starts training both by teaching them various combat skills, intelligence tactics, and survival skills. Chozhan picks the path of righteousness while Rajiv chooses the dark side becoming an international mercenary and assassin.
A few years down the line, their paths intersect in Chozhan’s peace-filled life in Singapore, where he gets dragged into a threatening plot brimming with terrorism, espionage and decroe. Rajiv is now working with international terrorists on a sinister mission waiting for Chozhan to stop him before it’s too late.
As we move further, we see best friends turned enemies trying to destroy each other in a deadly plan and fighting for a new world order.
Themes & Symbolism
- The dichotomy of Friendship and Rivalry
This bond turns into an intense rivalry and highlights how circumstances alter people.
- Nurture vs Nature
While both received the same training, Chozhan and Rajiv move in different directions which raises the question of whether morality is natured as a result of nurture.
- Power vs Patriotism
Where Chozhan is willing to do anything to protect his people, Rajiv supports personal gain and chaos, highlighting their ideological differences.
Performances and Character Analysis
Vishal as Chozhan
His action performance is strong, highlighting a man trapped by his past and torn by duty.
The most shocking element is his intense emotional outburst and fight sequences.
Arya as Rajiv
A menacing antagonist, Arya’s portrayal of Rajiv features a cold, calculated unsettling demeanor along with a sinister tone.
Shooting Locations in Dubai & Singapore – The film in question includes real life locations and large scale action set pieces.
Intensive Action Training – Both the actors participated in extensive hand to hand combat alongside stunt training for their roles.
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth Watching?
✅ This film is for you if you appreciate:
✔ Fast-paced action films with fierce competition (John Wick, War, Thani Oruvan)
✔ Chase scenes, fight scenes, and spies.
✔ Especially Arya, who plays the villain, gives a commanding performance.
❌ Not recommended for you if:
✖ You’re tired of the typical story tropes in action films.
✖ Films that lack depth in regard to plot and character development.
✖ People who do not watch films for women because females receive little to no onscreen time.
Final Verdict: An Engaging Action Thriller Featuring Dominating Rivalry
Enemy (2021) is one of the most sought after action thriller after Vishal and Arya’s collaborative venture. It’s brandished with deep rooted action cliches but action and style gurani, along with alluring set pieces made it a favorite for all adrenaline sighted movie goers. 🔥💥