Suriya's latest retro-themed action drama, simply titled 'Retro', has taken the OTT platform Netflix by storm, with fans confessing to watching it multiple times since its release on May 30, 2025. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, the film stars Suriya and Pooja Hegde in lead roles and pays homage to 1980s Tamil cinema, blending action, emotion, and a unique visual style.

'Retro' tells the story of Paarivel Kannan (Suriya), an orphan raised by a gangster, Thilagan (Joju George). Paari, as he is fondly called, yearns for a peaceful life with his lover, Rukmini (Pooja Hegde), but his violent past makes it difficult to escape the world of crime. The film explores themes of love, loss, redemption, and the search for one's true origins, set against the backdrop of a violent cult and a generational prophecy.

Since its digital debut, social media has been buzzing with reviews from fans who are thoroughly enjoying the film. Many have praised Suriya's electrifying performance, with some claiming that no one can beat him as a performer. One Twitter user wrote, "I bet, no one can beat Suriya as a performer. #Retro," while another enthusiast chimed in with, "The ONE Power House #Retro."

Pooja Hegde's performance has also been a major highlight for viewers, with many calling it the best of her career. Fans felt that she gave her all to the role of Rukmini, adding emotional depth to the film. Viewers particularly enjoyed the gripping first half, including the interval block and mass scenes. Santhosh Narayanan's background score has also received considerable appreciation for enhancing the overall movie experience.

One of the standout features of 'Retro' is a remarkable 15-minute single-shot sequence that combines song, dance, heated conversation, and tense action. This scene has been widely applauded for its technical brilliance and seamless execution, leaving viewers in awe of the cinematographer Shreyaas Krishna's striking visuals.

While some viewers felt that the latter half of the film could have had tighter writing, the general consensus is that 'Retro' is a must-watch for Suriya fans and cinema lovers alike. The film's unique blend of retro charm and modern storytelling has resonated with audiences, who have praised its technical aspects, including the cinematography and music.

'Retro' marks the first collaboration between Suriya and Karthik Subbaraj, and it seems to have struck a chord with audiences. Despite receiving mixed reviews during its theatrical run, the film has found a new lease of life on Netflix, reaching a wider audience and receiving the recognition it deserves.

Before 'Retro,' Suriya starred in 'Kanguva,' which was released on Amazon Prime Video on December 8, 2024. While 'Kanguva' had a star-studded cast, including Bobby Deol and Disha Patani, it received a mixed response from critics and audiences, with some criticizing its excessive audio levels and weak performances.

Now, with 'Retro', Suriya has once again proven his versatility and ability to captivate audiences with his performances. The film's success on Netflix is a testament to his star power and the enduring appeal of retro-themed movies. As fans continue to watch 'Retro' multiple times, it is clear that Suriya's magic is here to stay.