Aranmanai 4

Palace 4) is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language comedy horror film directed by Sundar C. It is produced by Avni Cinemax and Benzz Media (P) Ltd.

The film was partially reshot in Telugu as Baak with Vennela Kishore and Srinivasa Reddy replacing Yogi Babu and VTV Ganesh, respectively.

Saravanan suspects that Selvi's death was not a suicide and visits the police station with Ravi, the village president's son.

The police, now convinced, help Saravanan search for the swami's lair, where they find photographs of all the recent victims Selvi, Santhosh, Ravi, and Sakthi.

During interrogation, the swami reveals that Baak, an evil spirit capable of living in water and on land, had its soul trapped by the priest, diminishing its power.

In the Telugu partially reshot version, Vennela Kishore and Srinivasa Reddy were cast instead of Yogi Babu and VTV Ganesh.

[17][18] The film's soundtrack album and background score were composed by Hiphop Tamizha in his sixth collaboration with Sundar C, after Aambala (2015), Aranmanai 2 (2016), Kalakalappu 2 (2018), Vantha Rajavathaan Varuven (2019) and Action (2019).

[26][27] Aranmanai 4 was initially scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in mid January 2024 during the Pongal week but was postponed to Republic Day.

[32] Disney+ Hotstar acquired the digital rights to Aranmanai 4 in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, and it began streaming on the platform on 21 June 2024.

Gopinath Rajendran of The Hindu wrote, "Sundar C makes a much-needed comeback with the most intriguing addition to the ‘Aranmanai’ franchise, thanks to an engaging plot headlined by Tamannaah".

While praising Tamannaah's acting, he notes that although the film follows the established formula of its predecessors, it still offers a fresh narrative with multiple mysteries to unravel.

[38] Janani K. of India Today rated the film 2/5 stars, commenting, "Negatives overpower positives in Sundar C’s horror-comedy, which is full of redundant ideas and little laughs."

She points out that the film’s few strengths are overshadowed by redundant ideas and a lack of genuine laughs, resulting in a tedious experience for the viewer.

[39] The Indian Express gave a dismal 1/5 stars, stating, "A new day and a new 'Aranmanai' film with the same old problems; another lackluster entry that fails to provide either thrills or chills."

The review expresses disappointment in the film’s writing and accuses it of laziness, suggesting that the franchise has become too reliant on a formulaic approach.

[41] Akshay Kumar from The New Indian Express gave the film 3 out of 5 stars, stating, "An in-form Sundar C finds the sweet spot between humour and horror".

He credited the film's success to Sundar C's direction, noting its effective comedy, emotional depth, and music by Hiphop Tamizha.

[42] News18 wrote, "Sundar C’s gripping storyline makes it a must-watch", and praised him for delivering a blend of horror and comedy, featuring engaging performances by the leads.

[43] The Economic Times, "The director's skillful storytelling and ability to blend horror with comedy have been praised, with many considering this installment a refreshing addition to the franchise."