There’s something oddly comforting about watching Ajith Kumar return to the big screen — like reuniting with an old friend who’s grown bolder with time. Released in April 2025, Good Bad Ugly is Ajith Kumar’s latest action-packed venture, directed by Adhik Ravichandran. This film leans heavily into fan service — but I didn’t mind. In fact, I went in expecting a mass entertainer, and I got exactly that — and then some.
Ajith plays a triple role — and if you’re an Ajith fan, you’re in for a feast. He portrays AK, also known by the alias Red Dragon, a reformed gangster seeking peace; David Bhai, a ruthless enforcer with a volatile streak; and Ranga alias “Rangayya”, a shadowy and unpredictable figure lurking between loyalty and betrayal. He’s not just playing characters; he’s living them. And if you’ve followed his journey from Vaali to Vedalam, you’ll catch those nostalgic echoes in his body language, his iconic smirk, and his commanding screen presence.
Trisha Krishnan brings grace and emotional balance to the screen as Ramya, AK’s devoted wife. Reuniting with Ajith for the sixth time, their chemistry is mature, understated, and effective. As a lawyer, Ramya often asserts her knowledge of the law — leading to occasional clashes with AK’s more instinctive, grounded perspective. Their family dynamic adds heart to the narrative — especially with their young son, Vihaan, portrayed by Karthikeya Dev, whose innocence becomes a symbol of AK’s fight to protect the life he’s rebuilt.
AK’s father-in-law, portrayed by Prabhu, is a quiet but powerful presence. Contrary to what one might expect, he harbours no resentment over AK’s past. Instead, his silent support becomes a pillar of strength for the family, offering one of the film’s most touching undercurrents.
The film’s central conflict revolves around Johnny and Jammy, twin brothers and masterminds behind the notorious Dark Wolves gang, both portrayed by Arjun Das in a riveting dual role. Vengeful and manipulative, the twins plot to frame Vihaan for a crime he didn’t commit — as retribution for an old legal dispute involving Ramya. Their calculated moves and sinister coordination keep the tension high, culminating in a showdown that tests every facet of AK’s resolve.
Loyalty also finds its place in Baby Tyson, AK’s trusted aide, played by Sunil, and his equally steadfast companion, Jaeger, portrayed by Prasanna Venkatesan. Together, they stand by AK through the storm, embodying the kind of unwavering friendship that feels earned rather than forced.
The film’s production values are slick. From the gritty streets of Hyderabad to the sun-drenched vistas of Spain, cinematographer Abinandhan Ramanujam delivers a stylish visual palette. G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music — particularly his background score — heightens the drama, especially in action-heavy sequences that pulse with energy.
That said, the plot isn’t perfect. It can feel predictable at times. The second half does slow down, weighed by flashbacks and some underdeveloped arcs. A few characters — especially the twins — could have used more screen time to truly elevate the emotional stakes. But to be fair — this isn’t a film made for plot perfection. It’s made to thrill. And it does.
For fans of Ajith Kumar (and yes, I count myself among them), Good Bad Ugly is a cinematic celebration. For others, it’s a high-voltage, styledriven action drama with enough heart to keep you watching. Either way, it’s worth a watch. It’s a treat — a celebration of his persona, his legacy, and his unshakable mass appeal.
It’s not just a film. It’s Ajith in full force — raw, refined, and unforgettable. A cinematic storm that reminds us why stars like him don’t just act — they define eras.
