The film is often characterized as a "adult-rated" romantic drama. It attempts to deliver a social message—that unnatural or unethical relationships rarely lead to a happy ending—though some critics noted that this message was often secondary to its more provocative scenes.

The plot of Anagarikam unfolded exactly as the rumors had hinted: a complex web of deception, a protagonist forced to confront his past, and a climax that left the audience gasping. Arun’s heart raced, his eyes widened, and he whispered the iconic line in Tamil, “நான் இதை எதிர்பார்க்கவில்லை!” (“I didn’t expect this!”) just as the hero made his daring move.