Vamsam Review - Royal Bloodshed

Before we go into detail about this movie, there is one aspect that I need to clarify. The premise in which this movie is set is based on beliefs and traditions that todays society may not be aware of or in most cases, completely forgotten. Within reason, certain cinematic liberties have been taken but the essence is true, very much alive and kicking in rural India.

The story begins with people of varying backgrounds heading to the lineage festival or "Vamsa Thiruvizha" at a rural village called Singampidari. The local constable explains the traditions of the festival and the importance its given to the newly appointed Inspector. Yet the relevance lies in the violence that occurs during these festivals. Its during these scenes, you are shown our rivaling lineages, Anbarasu (Arulnidhi) of "Eppadu Pattalum Pirpaadu Kodathavar" (he who excels in native sports such as Silambam, Rekla etc) and Seenikannu (Jayaprakash) of "Nanjunda Ma Oh Si" (he who avenges any humiliation). Introductions complete, we are then taken back a year in time, where the story really begins. 

With such a tried, and tested story of revenge, and a debut of a political leader's grandson, one sincerely hopes for something different in the screenplay. Thoughts of how many formerly mentioned "cinematic liberties" will be made does not fail to pop up as well. In all honesty, I dont hold a lot of faith in celebrity kids making their debuts. But personal issues aside, I was genuinely excited about Vamsam. My reason? The one and only amazing director, Pandiraj. Much like Suseendran (Naan Mahaan Alla), he has the gigantic task of proving he's not a one-hit-wonder. And I feel he succeeds. Even though this story too is based in a rural backdrop, the similarities stop there. Undeterred by the success of his first feature film, Pasanga, the expectations upon him from the awards it garnered and the hype surrounding Arulnidhi's debut, he depicts with honesty the violence, honor and tradition that a society lives with and swears by. But its not all blood, sweat and aloe vera trees. He may have shown his more serious side, but he does not forget to add in his trademark humour. Simpletons are rarely shown so sweetly in revenge flicks so it is definitely a highlight for the film.

Special mentions must be made about Sunaina who plays Malar. Yes, she is Arulnidhi's ladylove but she is much more than that. Having seen her debut in Tamil (Kadhalil Vizhuthen), I would say this is the first time you dont see Sunaina but the thorned rural rose Malar. Simply put beautiful, lovable, passionate and full of emotion. Watch as she spits fires through her eyes and then does a complete 180 within minutes. Arulnidhi has done a decent job especially in the comical scenes with Ganja Karuppu, who is a laugh riot as his bestie.  But the one that snatches the praise yet again is Jayaprakash. This man is pure evil as Seenikannu and if he continues with his surprise performances like this, I believe we may have a contender for my beloved Prakashraj. Kishore as guest appearance is sufficient but could have been so much more.

With everyone performing so well, there is always a sour grape. This one has a few. Although the movie beautifully captures the village, it tends to shift between surreal and real visuals depending on the sequence. Also, it tends to drags occasionally,especially in the Kishore sequence and during the fight sequence at the  already-guessed climax. Debut music director Taj Noor, who hails from the school of A.R.Rahman, too has expectations pinned on him but I find his debut just average. So what's the conclusion? Watch it for Pandiraj, Asin the cow and the curiosity it stirs within your self. I'd be surprised if you didn't try to find out more about your own lineage once you have watched this movie. I know I did.