Sirai, which released in theatres on Thursday for Christmas, has been getting plaudits from fans, critics and members of the film fraternity. Actor Soori, after watching the film, praised the story and performances.

Soori called Sirai an "honest film" and said there were several moments in the film where a prayer escaped from him whenever the protagonist is in danger. He went on to applaud the director Suresh Rajakumari for coming up with such a story, and the performances by Vikram Prabhu and debutant Akshay Kumar.

Calling it an "arresting drama" about the justice system, an excerpt from the CE review reads, "Points to the makers for also writing in just enough subversions to make Sirai a compelling watch. Just when you think that an undertrial with freedom at his doorstep would do 'A', he goes on to do 'Z', and when you think a cop is making the same mistakes that almost cost him his job once, his response makes you smile because the world doesn't exist in binaries."

Sirai has a story by Taanakkaran fame Tamizh, which is based on the former police officer's real life, with the addition of fictional elements. The film marks the acting debut of Akshay Kumar, who is the son of its producer Lalit Kumar of the banner SS Screen Studios, known for backing the Vijay starrers Master and Leo.

The cast also includes I AM Kathalan star Anishma Anilkumar in her Tamil debut, Ananda Thambirajah, and Remya Suresh, among others. Its technical team includes music director Justin Prabhakaran, editor Philomin Raj, and cinematographer Madhesh Manickam.