Sivakarthikeyan’s Period Epic ‘Parasakti’ Opens to Polarized Reception; Visual Grandeur Clashes with Pacing Woes
Sivakarthikeyan’s historical drama 'Parasakti,' directed by Sudha Kongara, debuts to mixed reviews on January 10, 2026. While fans praise the visual grandeur and Sivakarthikeyan’s performance, criticism targets the weak screenplay and a sluggish second half. Discover the full social media verdict and box office outlook for this highly anticipated period epic.
The initial feedback highlights a tale of two halves. The opening act of Parasakti has been widely hailed as a masterclass in world-building, with audiences praising Sivakarthikeyan’s commanding screen presence and evolution as a leading man. Social media reviews frequently cite the pre-interval sequences and the high-octane interval block as the film's peak, buoyed by standout performances from the supporting cast. Atharvaa’s energetic contribution and Jayam Ravi’s portrayal of a formidable antagonist have been noted as vital sparks that elevate the film’s tension. Kongara’s directorial vision, particularly in the visual mounting of song sequences and historical aesthetics, initially succeeded in keeping the audience enthralled.
Despite this promising start, the momentum appears to falter significantly in the post-interval stretch. Critics and cinephiles alike have voiced disappointment over a screenplay that many describe as sluggish, predictable, and lacking the emotional gravitas essential for a historical epic. The narrative fragmentation in the second half has led to a perceived disconnect, with several netizens labeling the climax as underwhelming and uncharacteristic of Sudha Kongara’s usually tight storytelling. While some viewers have gone as far as to brand the film a "disaster" due to its lackluster musical score and pacing issues, a loyal segment of the fanbase remains defensive, arguing that the technical brilliance and Sivakarthikeyan’s charisma make it a worthy theatrical experience.
The ultimate fate of Parasakti now rests on its ability to transcend this divided reception through sustained "word of mouth" over the inaugural weekend. While the film’s visual scale and star power have ensured a strong opening, the criticisms regarding its emotional depth and writing suggest a challenging road ahead at the box office. Whether this ambitious historical venture will solidify Sivakarthikeyan’s status as a pan-Indian superstar or be remembered as a missed opportunity for Sudha Kongara remains to be seen as more general audiences weigh in over the coming days.

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