Freedom (2025), directed by Sathyasiva and starring M. Sasikumar, aims to chronicle the harrowing real-life tale of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees wrongfully imprisoned in India during the early 1990s. Set within the notorious Vellore Fort prison, the film attempts to depict the trauma, resilience, and eventual escape of 43 detainees who were unjustly held between 1991 and 1995. However, despite the compelling premise and socio-political relevance, Freedom ultimately falters in execution.

The film suffers from exploitative storytelling and a bleak tone that overshadows its historical importance. Rather than crafting a nuanced portrait of its characters and their ordeal, the narrative veers into excessive brutality and one-dimensional portrayals. The emotional heft is diluted by melodramatic performances, underdeveloped arcs, and jarring tonal shifts. M. Sasikumar’s portrayal of Thamizharasan lacks depth, while supporting characters feel like mere placeholders.

Some criticize the film for failing to humanize its subjects or offer deeper insights into the political context. Instead, it settles for a simplistic good-vs-evil narrative that glosses over complexity. While the intent to highlight an overlooked chapter of history is admirable, Freedom feels more like a missed opportunity—heavy-handed, emotionally disengaged, and cinematically underwhelming.