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Baththa

Play trailer Poster for Baththa Oct 2026 2h 45m Action Drama Mystery & Thriller Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 6 Reviews 96% Popcornmeter 50+ Ratings
In 1986 Madras, a timid eight-year-old boy accidentally locks a feared criminal inside a school restroom. As the man faces hunger and isolation, an unexpected friendship forms between them, transforming both their lives.

Critics Reviews

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Janani K India Today 6 days ago
3.5/5
Baththa may have a few rough edges, particularly towards the climax, but its heart is always in the right place. Go to Full Review
Prashanth Vallavan The New Indian Express 6 days ago
4/5
Baththa has the distinct charm of offering whatever you want out of it. It could be a fun commercial family entertainer if you choose to look at it that way, or it could read as a parable on an arrogant man’s ego death. Go to Full Review
Subha J Rao The News Minute Oct 2, 2026
You won’t be disappointed. Go to Full Review
Bhuvanesh Chandar The Hindu Oct 1, 2026
Even when the momentum dips in the second half, something in Balaji’s screenplay commands your attention or makes you chuckle. Go to Full Review
Sruthi Raman The Hollywood Reporter India Oct 1, 2026
A surprise package that hits all the right notes. Go to Full Review
Yashaswini Sri The Indian Express Oct 1, 2026
4/5
Baththa as a film becomes something rare: a Tamil commercial film that is genuinely funny, genuinely moving and genuinely surprising, all at the same time. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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Madhavan K 2 days ago A beautiful little film that speaks softly and stays with you. ❤️ Simple storytelling, heartfelt emotions, and a refreshing sense of calm. At a time when filmmakers seem to be chasing grand spectacles, excessive violence, and increasingly graphic storytelling, Baththa feels like a serene retreat. A gentle reminder that cinema doesn’t always have to be loud to leave an impact. Vijay Sethupathi is phenomenal as always. What a performer! And the biggest surprise for me was the kid, who is equally brilliant and holds his own alongside such an experienced actor. One of the film’s biggest strengths is how every character feels meaningful. Everyone has their own story, background, and purpose, and nothing feels unnecessarily placed. Baththa’s character arc is beautifully written and presented, and the smooth screenplay makes the entire experience feel effortless. No unnecessary drama, no forced grandeur, no violence for the sake of it. Just a simple, sincere story told beautifully. After a long time, a genuinely wholesome and clean cinematic experience. Sometimes, all you need is a film like this. ❤️🎬 See more Byanca 6 days ago The movies great family I like it See more Manjula 6 days ago Watch in theaters with family for a wholesome experience ❤️❤️ See more Mathivanan P Oct 3, 2026 Let him(Baththa) sing! I liked his singing! See more Harish N @harish_napa 4 days ago The drama stands out as a genuinely good and heartwarming film that proves how much impact a simple concept can have in the right hands. The story itself is delightfully simple, yet the storytelling is so thoughtful and organic that every single moment feels deeply engaging from the start. Vijay Sethupathi is exceptional in the titular role, bringing effortless vulnerability, grounded humor, and immense warmth to his character. His interactions with young Sai Prithviraj form the beating heart of the movie, creating an unlikely dynamic that produces genuine laughs while steadily building an emotional connection that feels completely earned. Balaji Tharaneetharan's writing and direction handle the tender moments with remarkable care, letting the silence and small character details speak volumes. Backed by Sai Abhyankkar's soulful musical score, the emotional payoff lands with tremendous weight, turning this simple narrative into a touching and memorable cinematic experience. See more Jorge 6 days ago great 👍🏽 actions and funny 😄 See more Read all reviews
Baththa

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Movie Info

Synopsis In 1986 Madras, a timid eight-year-old boy accidentally locks a feared criminal inside a school restroom. As the man faces hunger and isolation, an unexpected friendship forms between them, transforming both their lives.
Director
Balaji Tharaneetharan
Screenwriter
Balaji Tharaneetharan
Distributor
Star Studio18
Production Co
Star Studio18, Cine1 Studios, A For Apple Studios
Genre
Action, Drama, Mystery & Thriller
Original Language
Tamil
Release Date (Theaters)
Oct 1, 2026, Limited
Runtime
2h 45m
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