Director Lokesh Kanagarajs previous film Karthi starrer Khaidi won critical acclaim. It was entertaining and intelligently made.

Critics praised his writing and his different approach in narrating stories that focused on the content than the star image. Probably, this was the reason why superstar Vijay had agreed to work with him. 

He has begun the film in his style by introducing Vijay Sethupathis character, how he has turned into a shrewd and formidable rowdy in Warangal.

It takes nearly 15 minutes to bring Vijays character into the story. Until this time, Lokesh has played to his strength.

Once Vijay appears on the screen, and the story moves to a college drama, the director has lost his grip and balance. The entire stretch of college portions is shot in a lousy manner. The director has completely surrendered to the image of Vijay. 

Luckily, the story comes into the groove once the drama moves to a juvenile observation home with a perfect platform set for the face off between Vijay and Vijay Sethupathi.

Post-interval, there are two interesting sequences  Vijay meeting Vijay Sethupathi in the most dramatic manner, and pre climax scene. But, as the film progresses, we get the feeling that the director is trying to put one fight sequence after another to elevate Vijays mannerisms, stylish gestures, rather than telling a story.

Despite the action packed second half, the film ends abruptly, without any high moment. Master is entertaining in parts and strong performances from the two lead actors, but due to an unconvincing climax, the desired impact is not made in the end. 

On the whole, Master is more of Vijays movie than a directors film. It has style and swag but nothing else. But with ample routineness. It is a regular masala movie. 

Greatandhra