My Lord Movie Review: A Sharp Satire That Misses the Human Touch
Released on February 13, 2026, the Tamil film My Lord blends drama and thriller elements into a satirical take on identity theft and organ harvesting. Directed by Raju Murugan, the movie features M. Sasikumar in the lead role, supported by Chaithra Achar, Asha Sarath, and Guru Somasundaram. With a runtime of 2 hours and 28 minutes, it has garnered a critic's rating of 3.0 and a matching user rating, indicating a mixed reception.
Plot Synopsis: A Couple Erased by the System
The story revolves around Muthusirpi (played by M. Sasikumar), a matchbox factory worker from Kovilpatti, and his wife Suseela (Chaithra Achar). After a medical emergency plunges them into debt with a loan shark, they find themselves stripped of their identities and declared dead on paper. Their plight takes a dramatic turn when a central minister (Asha Sarath) requires a rare kidney transplant, and Muthu is identified as the only compatible donor in the country. A journalist (Guru Somasundaram) investigates the case, leading to legal battles that expose systemic corruption.
Strengths: Engaging Premise and Satirical Edge
My Lord succeeds in maintaining curiosity through its compelling premise. The film effectively critiques how power structures treat individuals as disposable, with several dialogues delivering sharp social commentary. Sean Roldan's musical score provides a subtle yet impactful backdrop, enhancing the narrative's tension. Raju Murugan's direction shines in depicting the casual brutality of bureaucratic and political systems, keeping the plot engaging for most of its duration.
Weaknesses: Underdeveloped Characters and Predictable Elements
Despite its strengths, the film falters in character development. The characters often feel like chess pieces rather than real people, lacking depth and emotional resonance. For instance, a cop posing as a businessman to infiltrate Muthu's life offers potential for moral complexity, but the script neglects this opportunity. Similarly, repetitive emotional scenes, such as back-to-back bedside speeches by the minister's children, undermine authenticity.
Muthu's stubborn refusal of financial aid, portrayed as dignity, comes across as a forced narrative choice rather than a believable character trait. This portrayal risks romanticizing poverty without exploring nuanced motivations. Additionally, the organ harvesting subplot, while not overbearing, feels somewhat worn and could have benefited from a fresher approach to stand out in the genre.
Performances and Technical Aspects
M. Sasikumar delivers a reliable performance, embodying Muthu with understated sincerity that makes him easy to root for. Chaithra Achar, in her Tamil debut, brings quiet strength to Suseela, holding her own alongside seasoned actors. Guru Somasundaram and Asha Sarath provide solid support in their respective roles. Technically, Nirav Shah's cinematography ensures a polished visual aesthetic, contributing to the film's professional finish.
Verdict: A Missed Opportunity for Greater Impact
In summary, My Lord lands enough satirical jabs to keep audiences engaged and offers a thought-provoking critique of societal flaws. However, its failure to develop compelling characters limits its emotional impact. The film needed people as intriguing as the chaotic situations they navigate. For viewers seeking a plot-driven thriller with social commentary, it provides decent entertainment, but those looking for deeper character arcs may find it lacking.
As noted in a review by The Times of India on February 12, 2026, this is a good enough satire that could have been better, reflecting the overall consensus of a 3.0 rating from both critics and users.
