Retro (2025), directed by Karthik Subbaraj, is a gripping action drama that blends intense emotions with stylized storytelling. Starring Suriya as Paarivel "Paari" Kannan, the film follows his journey from a troubled past to a violent reckoning. The narrative unfolds across three chapters—Love, Laughter, and War—each exploring different facets of Paari’s life.

Suriya delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying Paari’s emotional turmoil and raw aggression with conviction. Pooja Hegde, as Rukmini, shines in the first half but is sidelined later, which weakens the emotional depth. Joju George adds gravitas as Paari’s foster father, though secondary characters lack development.

Karthik Subbaraj’s direction is visually ambitious, incorporating influences from Mad Max, Oldboy, and Clint Eastwood’s Westerns. While the film excels in action and cinematography, the screenplay falters in the second half.