Actor Soori is set to take on his most challenging and ambitious role yet with the Tamil sports action drama Mandaadi, which explores the intense world of competitive sea racing. Marking a significant leap in scale and physical demands, the film is being shot extensively on open waters, pushing both the actor and crew beyond conventional filming environments.
Directed by Mathimaran Pugazhendhi, Mandaadi revolves around the thrills, rivalries, and resilience of competitive sailboat racing. Soori leads the cast, sharing the screen with Suhas, who plays a key rival, while Mithun Jai Sankar portrays a skilled racer integral to the story line. Mahima Nambiar appears in dual looks, representing different phases of her character’s life, adding depth to the narrative.
Significant portions of Mandaadi have been filmed in the coastal region of Ramanathapuram, with sequences shot directly on the sea to preserve authenticity. The cast reportedly underwent intensive training alongside professional racers to perform complex maneuvers convincingly. Filming in open waters has brought logistical challenges, including unpredictable weather, strong winds, and equipment losses, which led to re-shoots. Despite these hurdles, the makers have prioritized live-action setups over visual effects to maintain realism.
Mounted on a substantial budget, Mandaadi reflects the technical demands of ocean-based film making and the ambition of the production. The project is positioned as a landmark in Soori’s career, highlighting his transition into performance-driven lead roles. With production progressing steadily, Mandaadi is expected to emerge as a defining chapter in the actor’s evolving filmography.