‘DC’ Movie Review: Anirudh Ravichander’s Score Powerfully Elevates Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Hero Debut in This Revenge Saga
The newly released Tamil action thriller 'DC' marks director Lokesh Kanagaraj's lead acting debut alongside Wamiqa Gabbi in a gritty, violent reimagining of the classic Devdas story. Helmed by Arun Matheswaran, the film follows two outcast figures who unite against corrupt authorities and criminal forces in an intense struggle for survival and revenge.
The Tamil-language romantic action thriller DC, starring filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj in his lead acting debut alongside Wamiqa Gabbi, released in theatres worldwide on August 7, 2026. Directed by Arun Matheswaran and produced by Sun Pictures, the film offers a gritty, violent reimagining of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel Devdas set within an underworld of outlaws and systemic corruption. ‘DC’ Actor Lokesh Kanagaraj Reunites With Thalapathy Vijay After Tamil Nadu Elections; Nostalgic Fans Ask About ‘Leo 2’ Update.
‘DC’ Review
Critics have largely praised the film as a visually striking and unapologetically brutal action drama, commending Lokesh Kanagaraj's confident transition from director to lead actor. Reviewers highlighted Wamiqa Gabbi's strong Tamil debut, the intense chemistry between the leads, and Anirudh Ravichander's high-energy musical score that elevates the action sequences.
Watch the Trailer of ‘DC’:
While some critics noted that the second half relies on familiar chase-and-revenge tropes, the consensus points to a stylish, atmospheric thriller anchored by sharp technical craftsmanship and raw emotional weight.
India Today: "Director Lokesh Kanagaraj, who built his name in Tamil cinema without industry backing, makes a confident acting debut in DC. His performance is largely satisfying, though he falls slightly short in scenes demanding raw rage, grief and emotional vulnerability. Sanjana makes the most of her limited screen time. At its heart, DC is less interested in glorifying violence than in understanding the grief that fuels it. Arun Matheswaran finally marries his visual flair with emotionally resonant writing, while Anirudh's career-best score amplifies every beat. The result is an arresting revenge thriller that lingers long after the final frame."
NDTV: "DC, a gritty and riveting gangster drama, is a superb watch thanks not just to director Arun Matheshwaran but equally to Lokesh Kanagaraj, Anirudh and Wamiqa Gabbi. One major highlight in DC is Anirudh's music and background score, which creates numerous whistle-worthy moments and elevates many of the scenes. The BGM is outstanding, amplifying both the emotional and adrenaline-fuelled sequences."
MovieTalkies: "Arun Matheswaran adapts Devadas in his own distinct style without losing its core essence. He does not try to imitate or borrow from other versions; instead, he creates a world that feels fresh and original. And he succeeds in doing so. Overall, DC is stylish, brutal, raw, unfiltered, and quite hard-hitting. Watch it, feel it, and experience it."
Hindustan Times: "DC might have a familiar story to tell, but Arun Matheswaran does enough to ensure you don’t know what’s coming next. Lokesh makes a stellar debut, as Wamiqa and Krish aid him with their dependable performances. For once, a tale of a saviour trying to deliver justice in his own manner doesn’t rub you the wrong way. DC is a beautifully brutal tale of people broken by the system that lingers long after it’s done. To me, that's a win."
More About ‘DC’
The story centres on Devadas (Kanagaraj), a hardened rebel leading an outlaw crew against oppressive figures of authority. His life takes a drastic turn when he crosses paths with Chandra (Gabbi), a woman seeking an escape from a life of exploitation. As relentless police investigations and rival factions close in on them, their shared struggle for survival evolves into a desperate stand against the forces that displaced them. Lokesh Kanagaraj’s ‘DC’ Trailer To Be Launched at Cannes 2026, Makers Share Announcement.
The project marks a major milestone for both lead actors: Kanagaraj steps out from behind the camera after directing blockbuster action films, while Gabbi makes her feature debut in Tamil cinema. The supporting cast features Sanjana Krishnamoorthy as Parvathy, alongside Thalaivasal Vijay and Krish Dayal. The film carries an 'A' (adults only) certification due to its raw violence and stylised action choreography
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2026 04:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
