NEEK and Dragon movie release highlights: Pradeep starrer stands strong in BO as Dhanush's film gains positive responses

According to trade reports, Pradeep Ranganathan starrer Dragon is emerging with a solid start at the box office with pre-sales for the opening day standing at Rs 2.25 crores. However, Dhanush directorial NEEK also stands its ground, being lauded with positive responses.

In a recent post on social media, Tamil actor Vishnu Vishal penned a heartwarming post and lauded both the releases, NEEK and Dragon. Acknowledging how the makers have backed newcomers in their films, the actor said, "What fascinates me is the willingness of producer AGS Entertainment, Archana Kalpathi, and director Dhanush sir to back relatively fresh talent and churn out good movies with good production values." He further added, "Special congrats to Pradeep Ranganathan in delivering again for a producer who are backing his dreams consistently."

Amidst the success of the movie, Dragon director Aswath Marimuthu confirms collaborating with Pradeep Ranganathan once again after wrapping up Silambarasan TR starrer STR51. The film is likely to release in 2027.

In an early interview with TOI ahead of Dragon's release, Pradeep Ranganathan credits his love from the audience to how they find him relatable. The Love Today actor-director said, "Maybe they see themselves in me." The actor also justified how the movie does not demean education as it was speculated through its trailer.

After the premiere show, NEEK actors Pavish and Anikha Surendran expresses their gratitude towards the audience for their positive responses. Pavish also credited his uncle and director Dhanush for the movie's success and said, "I have criticized him a lot. I'm sorry for that but all the success we see today is because of him." See the reaction here:

Dhanush marked his third directorial venture with Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam, acronymed popularly as NEEK. The romantic flick takes a modern take on love and relationships and within no time it has grabbed quite the attention from fans. The movie is awarded with a U/A certification from the CBFC and has a run time of about 2 hours and 16 minutes.The Gen-Z drama features some new generation actors, including Pavish, Priya Prakash Varrier, Anikha Surendran and others.

Ashwath Marimuthu has been criticized for appearing overconfident since the release of the teaser and trailer. Responding to this, he questioned why a filmmaker shouldn’t believe in their own work. He dismissed false claims, highlighting KS Ravikumar’s praise for his calm directing approach. Ashwath stressed that a director’s confidence is essential to draw audiences. "Why shouldn’t I be confident about my own film? Would you go and watch a film where the director doesn’t exude the confidence that they’ve made a good film?" he told Indian Express. "What’s the point of telling this story through a character who is already successful? I need to show the arc, right? Isn’t that what will interest people? The connection happens when there is a fall and a rise," Ashwath continued.

The team behind Dragon is receiving immense appreciation from critics following its press screening. Early reviews highlight the film’s engaging narrative, strong performances, and entertaining screenplay. Critics have praised director Ashwath Marimuthu’s storytelling and Pradeep Ranganathan’s impressive screen presence. 

Pradeep Ranganathan starrer Dragon has been grabbing high applause and attention post its theatrical release. The coming of age romantic drama's first audience verdict has already steered it to a great hit.  However, all eyes are now on when and where the movie can be watched online. Well, after completing its theatrical run, the movie will be available for streaming online on Netflix. An official date is yet to be announced for the same.

Arun Vijay shared his thoughts after watching NEEK, calling it a fun-filled film that he truly enjoyed. He praised Dhanush for his work, appreciating his screenplay, witty one-liners, and character development. He also lauded GV Prakash for delivering outstanding music. Additionally, he gave a special mention to the entire cast, describing them as talented and refreshing, making the film a delight to watch.

Pradeep Ranganathan's coming-of-age romantic drama Dragon has finally hit the theaters. The movie has promised to bring a fresh new take on modern relationships and seems to have hit quite the mark among audiences. The strong foothold of the storyline as well as the promising performances of the actors have already been lauded by fans and social media seems to be filled with positive reviews of the movie. The 2 hour 35 minutes long Tamil movie has been certified UA 16+ by CBFC. Post its theatrical run the movie will be airing on Netflix as part of its OTT release.

Pradeep Ranganathan's Dragon, a coming-of-age comedy-drama, hit the big screens today, February 21. Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, the film has been receiving positive feedback since its morning release. If you're planning to watch it with family or friends, check out these Twitter reviews shared by netizens. "Super fun first half. Begins on a very predictable note as any campus entertainer but slowly transitions into a meaningful drama about chasing success. Interval block serves as the solid high point. Overall, a breezy entertainer so far. @pradeeponelife holds this quite well single-handedly," read a review.

Dhanush's film NEEK seems to have captured the right reception from audience upon its release. In some viral pictures which have been doing rounds on the internet, the cast of the romantic drama are seen enjoying the FDFS show of the movie. However, not just them but even Dhanush's sons Yatra and Linga are seen sitting at the back of the theater and enjoying the film with their friends and acquaintances.

Audiences felt the Raayan actor brought a refreshing rom-com after Pa Paandi. They praised his take on Gen Z relationships, breakups, and rebounds. While some found the first half slow, they enjoyed the second. Pavish impressed as Prabhu, and Mathew Thomas won hearts with his comedy. "A clean teen rom-com with a fun story that’s easy to relate to and follow. D keeps it simple and doesn’t try to complicate things with his lighthearted narration. Mathew Thomas is terrific with his one-liners and is easily the crowd favorite," read a review.

Notable filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj was one among the many others from the film fraternity who dropped a major shouout for Dhanush over the release of his third directorial NEEK. In a heartfelt note on X (formerly Twitter), the Retro director wrote "Wishing @dhanushkraja Sir and the entire team of #NEEK the very best for a Blockbuster Success."

In the latest update, NEEK music composer G. V. Prakash Kumar shared his thoughts on his official X (formerly Twitter). He expressed his love for the film and urged fans to share their opinions. The Rebel actor also hinted that the film would be a special treat for youngsters. He wrote, "A @dhanushkraja film. I personally loved the film. U guys watch and tell us how u feel. Will be a treat for youngsters."

Keerthy Suresh turned the loudest cheerleader for Dhanush-directed NEEK and dropped her candid review of the film on social media after having watched its first-day first-show on the theaters. She lauded the filmmaker for bringing something unique to the table with a host of new talented actors. Keerthy also heaped praises on the cast of the movie over their performances. An excerpt from her long review read as "Just watched #NEEK, What a fresh and light film this is!! Yet again @dhanushkraja sir, you’ve created something new with your Midas touch. It was so lovely to watch all these actors on screen!"

Actor Silambarasan TR shared his excitement for Dragon with a powerful one-word review: "BLOCKBUSTER." His reaction reflects the film’s impact, hinting at a strong audience response. With its engaging narrative and performances, Dragon seems to have struck a chord, earning praise from fans and industry stars alike.  

Ahead of NEEK's release, director Dhanush took to his official X (formerly Twitter) to share a heartfelt message with fans. The Raayan actor expressed confidence that audiences would enjoy the film as much as the team did while making it. He also highlighted the young cast, stating that they are eager for the future and filled with dreams, hoping they all come true. Reflecting on his own journey, Dhanush shared that he once stood in their place and understands their emotions at this moment.