Directed by: Praveen K. Mani
Written by: Praveen K. Mani
Produced by: Mohana Manjula S.
Starring: Saravana Vickram, Hasli Amaan, Rajesh Balachandiran
Cinematography: Lokesh Elangovan
Edited by: Prem B
Music by: M. S. Jones Rupert
Choreographer: Sandy Master
Release Date: 02 January 2026
Running Time: 130 Minutes
Country: India
Language: Tamil
Dubbing: Malayalam / Telugu
Budget: ₹3 Crore (Estimated)
OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar / Amazon Prime (Expected)
OTT Release Date: February 2026
About the Movie
Dear Radhi is a unique experimental romantic drama that delves into the life of Madhan, a 23-year-old IT professional suffering from gynophobia—an intense social anxiety and fear of interacting with women. The narrative takes a fascinating turn when Madhan, seeking to overcome his psychological barriers, decides to pay for a one-day "date" with Radhi, a sex worker he meets at a spa. What starts as a simple attempt at social therapy quickly evolves into a chaotic journey through the dark underbelly of the city.
The film is structured as a non-linear narrative, with the protagonist often breaking the fourth wall to share his internal monologue directly with the audience. As Madhan and Radhi spend their day together, they are pursued by a menacing gangster named Varadhan and a police officer searching for a stolen weapon. The movie masterfully blends elements of dark comedy, suspense, and emotional storytelling, making it a standout project for debutant director Praveen K. Mani.
About the Cast
The film marks the big-screen debut of Saravana Vickram (well-known for his role in the popular TV serial Pandian Stores), who delivers a sincere performance as the awkward and fearful Madhan. His portrayal of vulnerability and social hesitation is relatable and grounded. Hasli Amaan shines in the titular role of Radhi, bringing a perfect mix of mystery, toughness, and grace to a character who is trying to escape her own troubled past.
Rajesh Balachandiran plays the antagonist Varadhan with an intense and sometimes quirky energy that adds to the film's dark humor. The chemistry between the lead pair, despite the unconventional nature of their meeting, forms the emotional core of the story, supported by a talented ensemble including Sai Dinesh and Yuvaraj Subramaniyan.
Message of the Movie
Beyond its suspenseful plot, Dear Radhi carries a subtle social message about human connection and the judgment society casts upon individuals based on their profession or mental struggles. It explores the difference between mere physical attraction and genuine human affection. The film highlights how everyone carries a "hidden story" and emphasizes that empathy and understanding can often come from the most unexpected sources. It encourages viewers to look past social stigmas and recognize the inherent dignity in every person.
Should You Watch This Movie?
If you are a fan of experimental cinema that doesn't follow the typical "commercial hero" formula, Dear Radhi is certainly worth a watch. It is a refreshing take on the romantic thriller genre, focusing more on character psychology and dialogue than on grand action sequences. The film’s climax features a thought-provoking twist that recontextualizes the entire day's events, leaving the audience with lingering questions about truth and identity.
However, the movie’s slow pace in the first half and the heavy use of monologues might not appeal to those looking for a fast-paced masala entertainer. It is best suited for audiences who appreciate indie-style filmmaking and realistic portrayals of human emotions. The music by M.S. Jones and the atmospheric cinematography by Lokesh Elangovan significantly enhance the viewing experience, making it a solid recommendation for fans of meaningful Tamil cinema.
Family & Friends Warning: While the movie focuses on emotional growth and social themes, it contains adult themes related to the protagonist's visit to a spa and the heroine's profession. It is best enjoyed by a mature audience or older teenagers with parental guidance due to the intensity of certain crime-related scenes.