Avan Ivan Review

In all honesty, I dont know where to begin with Bala. The man began his career with Sethu and has risen to heights that I dont think he even thought he would reach. Personally, I have found his films disturbingly dark but extremely sensitive as well, an odd combination but one that was present. His latest one of Avan Ivan was supposed to be done in the shortest amount of time and be a full length light-hearted film but while the time factor was clearly extended more than anyone liked, does he succeed in the different style of film? Not really.

Avan Ivan is about Walter Vanagamudi [Vishal Krishna], the oldest son in family of thieves that aspires to become a big time actor, his step-brother Kumbiduren Saamy [Arya], a much louder mouthed but quick witted theif, and the dethroned Jaminder of there village, Highness [G.M.Kumar]. As the only person that can command some respect from the two, Highness is the only thing between the two step-brothers that can stop them fighting. At the same time, he cares about them dearly and wants them to reform from their criminal ways. As the two find love, Highness is the one that clears the way for them, even if it means he must let go of his own grudges against people who cheated him. But what happens when Highness is in trouble? Will the brother look past their mutual animosity and help him? This forms the crux of the story.

Let me continue from my first para and say that this is definitely a Bala film although slightly different. His style of filmmaking is definitely evident in the picturisation and pace. However, his undying desire to write stories about the forgotten ones of society although merit-worthy, is something he hasn't given up even in his light-hearted filmmaking. Vishal Krishna steps away from the masala of Malakottai and Thamirabharani and transform himself quite literally. As the "onnarai kannan" [squint eyed] Walter, he has put in a lot of effort to be the character instead of the star and it is greatly appreciated. Arya is not new to the slum characterisation and pitches in a decent performance. You could even say that barring a few scenes, he is the central comedy relief for a good portion of the film. A special mention must be made of their bromistry [brotherly chemistry for the uninitiated] which works big time. Constable Baby is a fun character played by Janani Iyer, a cute newbie that does what she can. Hopefully we will see more of her. Madhu Shalini plays a key role but she is just about ok as Thenmozhi. G.M.Kumar is fun, innocent and courageous as Highness and scores on more than one occasion, higher than the lead actors. Ambika and Jayapradha are nowhere near as classy as I have known them to be but both work well as the foul-mouthed mothers. R.K's intro seems too quick for liking and his screen time is quite short but as the catalyst he tries his best. The artists that play the DSP position aspiring Inspector and Arya's sidekick bring the house down repectively. The rest add to the mix.

Music is always a highlight with Bala's film and he returns with Yuvan but this isn't his usual best although completely in sync with Bala's storytelling on the background score. Rasathi does entertain but listen to the soundtrack more than watch the visuals since they aren't up to par. Editing by Suresh Urs is neat and the cinematography by Arthur Wilson is a big plus point for the film. Each scene is shot with amazing grace and depicts the mountain area beautifully with no superficiality. 

The weakest link and certain cause of the setback is the story and the pace, two key items Bala has always had tight reigns on. So the characters are supposed to be of the forgotten sector of society yet you are not supposed to look at them that way. Ok, granted. But in all honesty, do people of any sector of society have such a constant flow crass jokes? Dialogue writer S.Ramakrishnan does have good points since the audience does laugh out loud sometimes but that isn't for very long. Adding to this, there is no logic behind the supposed "romantic" scenes. Neither pair of ladies are shown to give reason behind their affinity to the male leads, if you leave aside the rude behaviour towards that precedes these circumstances. On top of this, you are bombarded with the crass comedy for a good portion of the film before the story progresses. Yes, you will have to swallow Bala's trademark brutal depiction but does that also warrant patience being tested? 

I walked in with no expectations since this was Bala's attempt at being more mainstream and light-hearted but when you refer Pithamagan to have better comedy and Naan Kadavul to have more heart, disappointment is all that you are left with.

Rating: 2/5

Vaanam Review

How does one take a film like Vaanam? Granted the original has been out for quite some time and had a shock value to it that Vaanam doesn't but does a remake of a good film amount to an automatic success story if the director is the same. Not always. The critically acclaimed film Vedam, written and directed by Krish in Telugu, was prominent not just its content but the fact it boasts of a star cast of Allu Arjun, Manchu Manoj Babu, Anushka Shetty, Manoj Bajpai, Saranya and Nagayya. Considering multi-starrers are only now making a comeback in TFI, the cast alone got people’s attention as each played a special part in a 5 story screenplay. After the film’s release, detractors were apparent but the general consensus was of positive reviews for the film. For its remake, Vaanam, the cast changes slightly with Simbhu in Arjun’s role, Bharath in Manoj’s and Prakashraj in Manoy Bajpai’s role while Anushka and Saranya return to reprise their roles from the original. However, I was fearful that when the makers of the film “adapted” the story to the Tamil audience, the 'heart' that I fell in love with for the original film would get lost. Director Krish has gone on record to say only slight changes have been made since this was a universal story about the human spirit, he was confident it would work. Read on to find out if it did.

Bharath[Bharath] is a guitarist and front man for a band based in Bangalore. Doubling up as his friends as well, he and his band members aspire to make it big and land their first gig in front of a large audience in Chennai. But thanks to Bharath's carelessness they miss their flight. Cut acress to Tutincorin, Ramayya and his daughter in law Lakshmi[Saranya] are silk weavers from a poor family background in a rural area. Since both are uneducated, they take out loans from the local loan sharks in an attempt to get Lakshmi’s son Paandi a proper education but are unable to pay it off the interest. Pressure is further mounted on them by the loan shark who takes Paandi custody until they pay it off. From here we move to Sulurpet. An area close to the Andhra Pradesh - Tamil Nadu border where Saroja [Anushka Shetty] is a prostitute that gets paid big money but hardly sees any of it. Fed up with her mistress' cruel ways, she plans with her man friday in Chennai to get away and start her own brothel but has to wait for him to call once everything is set. In Coimbatore, Rahim [Prakashraj] receives a call from his family doctor to say his wife Zara [Sonia Aggarwal] is  pregnant again. Excited about the news, he also finds out that his missing brother has been seen in Chennai. As he and his wife board the bus, the painful past which holds the reasons for his sorrow filled happiness unfold as they go in search of his brother. And lastly, we then shift to Raja alias Cable Raja [Simbhu], a cable tv contractor living in the Chennai slums, he dreams of big cars, bigger houses and even bigger bank balances. Money on the mind and no way to earn it he manages to convince his multi-millionaire heiress girlfriend Priya[Jasmine] who is unaware of his financial status, that he is well off also. However, convincing Priya is only half the well crossed. The next and final one is to convince the parents and that too, at an expensive New Year party he needs to buy the tickets for. 

We begin with the introduction of these 5 separate stories. Each is different in location and in lifestyle. But each finds their way to the streets of Chennai insearch of something.While it would seem each none of these individuals will ever meet, destiny has something else in mind. Their individuals searches will see them scratch and fight for what they want and need. Yet, it is also their individual searches that will see them face to face with a common enemy. As reality hits them these commoners, lessons will be learnt, lives will be lost and the human spirit will be tested.

As mentioned, I loved the original film Vedam so I had to try hard to keep the screenplay and performances out of my head. But comparisons aside, Krish has done well with his choice of cast. Simbhu has a very hard image to crack and is showing honest attempts at trying to break away from it. For the actor-director, his portrayal of Cable Raja is both fun and earnest with the actor excelling in the penultimate 20 minutes as he cruises through anxiety, shock, remorse and courage. It would have helped if the comedy sequences between him and Santhanam was downplayed to the same degree but he does induce more than a few laughs at his mock T.Rajendhar act. Speaking of which, Santhanam is his usual best and may have another hit Jodi with Simbhu on his hands. However, the actor does need to work on his emotional skills. Anushka Shetty reprises her role so there isn’t anything new about it but she plays it convincingly. The last time I saw Bharath play his role so effortlessly was in Pattiyal and he plays the rock star role like a rock star whether it be mannerisms or swag. Vega Tamotia has a significant yet small role of Bharath’s girlfriend and back bone that she does with ease as well as looks apt for. Prakashraj steps away from his bad guy persona and plays a victim of malicious behaviour with his usual élan. Sonia Aggarwal’s role restricts the actress in her come back vehicle and is quite small for someone that has had a fair few prominent film in her filmography. Saranya Ponvannan and the actor who plays her father in law fit the bill perfectly. Radha Ravi is brief while VTV Ganesh evokes much humour. 

When it comes to a multi-story screenplay, it takes one slip with up by the director and you will confuse the audience. Thankfully, Krish has moved from his Gamyam days and shows maturity as he gives each story the same amount of time and importance. Kudos to him and writer Gnanagiri for maintaining the emotion whilst adapting. At the same time the changes that were made in the screenplay came as a surprise and that too a welcomed one in the case of Rahim's story. I did note though that the general feel of the film became less intense than that of the original. However, this doesn't hinder the pace or structure. Editing by Anthony is clean and crisp while Nirav Shah and Gnanasekaran's camerawork remains honest without overriding the screenplay. Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja is always something to look forward to. But this time I would say Yuvan has missed the mark a little. Vaanam and Who am I are the saving grace in a bass beat dominated soundtrack that is strictly ok while M.M. Keeravani's track for Anushka Egari Pothe is dubbed. 

Lets be honest, whether you look at Vedam or Vaanam, it’s not perfect. The character development for Priya [Jasmine] and Zara could have been worked out better since they lacked importance in the original as well. However, in the case of Jasmine, she was a severe let down in the acting department and her dubbing artist did not help her at all. Add to this having an actor like Jayaprakash play the role of the terrorist feels like such a waste considering his potential. Also, as crisp as the editing was, there were a few shots that could have been trimmed back a little more. At times the dialogue seemed like just a translation from Telugu than an adaptation but these moments are few so it can be excused. 

Rating: 3/5. All in all, Krish has recreated the film with the heart that I fell for. Even if it did make me laugh a little louder, it also made me feel the same as before.

Boss Engira Bhaskaran Review

They say comedy is a serious business. Not everyone can capture what is funny on paper, on celluloid. For director Rajesh M, he does it with such ease; you find it difficult to believe it’s only his second feature film. With great performances from his lead cast, he returns after the huge success of Siva Manasula Shakthi (SMS), with another comedy caper that is sure to follow suit.

Meet Bhaskaran aka Boss (Arya). A busy bee with nothing to do. Carefree and callous, he has failed his English exam that many times, he will soon be doing the exam with his much younger sister. Now meet Nallathambi (Santhanam). A barber shop owner who’s making ends meet. As a dutiful friend, wherever necessary, he helps his best friend out with ideas and whatnot (read: money). This doesn’t always work out for him. As you may have guessed, enter Chandrika (Nayanthara). Boss falls for Chandrika while he's waiting for a bus to attend his exam. As he tries to impress her and fumbles, he reaches the exam hall only to find out she is the exam hall teacher. But wait, why was he running after someone with a sickle in the opening scene? Isn’t it supposed to proceed with how Boss gets his girl and becomes the son/brother/son-in-law that everyone wants him to be? 

If you follow me on twitter, you will know that I was keeling over in pain from laughter while watching this movie. Yes, it’s a "leave your brain at home" type of movie but so what? It’s entertaining to say the least and Rajesh has made it abundantly clear that is aim. The best part for me was the old Arya from the days of Arindhum Ariyaamalum is back. And how! From a serious, heart-wrenching role in Madrasapattinam, the actor has done a 180 degree turn, showcasing a natural performance in comedy. As Boss, he is just your average lovable loafer. Although accused of being a dead-pan with his facial expressions on occasion, Arya has shown improvement from his previous comedy caper Oram Po. With Santhanam in the mix, the two just have a ball. The chemistry between them is superb and sure to be seen again. Already known for his amazing timing and quick wit, Santhanam returns with Rajesh and delivers yet again, a rip-roaring performance. With them, another person that I wish to see again is Subbu Panchu who plays Arya's older brother. Having seen him tear-jerker Tele-serials as an arch-nemesis for the protagonist, I honestly could not recognise him on the silver screen. In a small, yet vital role that’s definitely a pleasant surprise, he leaves his mark and brings the house down.

With the boys hogging the limelight, Nayanthara does tend to get lost in the mix. But as the demure yet confident teacher in training, Nayanthara looks and acts the part effectively. Often criticised for her costumes, Nalini Sriram has finally got it right with her costume design to suit Nayanthara’s physique and character. Adding to the already good looking on screen couple, their chemistry is effortless. While Arya is the verbous bumbling idiot, Nayanthara composed and calm, comes back with a "Pardon?" The expression on Arya's face is priceless.

Although the performances are what you look out for in the film, it would be wrongful to not mention the re-recording and dialogue. If one openly makes you giggle, the other makes you gaffaw with what it alludes to. Look out for the references to past Tamil flicks. Some may find it offensive, but I simply could not stop laughing. Rajesh has made the dialogues easy for the common man to identify with what's being said. Admittedly in a humorous manner, but the emotions and projection are quite natural.

Once again it is time to pull out the short straws. And for this, I am a little disappointed. As mentioned, no path-breaking cinema is expected but when the viewer can guess the next “twist”, you better have a backup plan. Having a guest appearance is fine but this one was just stupid. The re-recording was typical Yuvan, yet he still had me questioning his state of mind. Undoubtedly it is him on the soundtrack too but he is just not up to par. For such a fun film, I was expecting a lot more.

For the non-Tamil viewer, if possible, watch it with someone that can explain Tamil slang properly as you don’t want to be lost in translation. A total Paisa-vasool kinda film after a long time...

Kadhal Solla Vanthen Review

Kadhal Solla Vanthen has been on the waiting-for-release list for more than one reason for many. This movie marks the return of Boopathy Pandian after the successful Malaikottai. It consists of music by Yuvan Shankar Raja and marks the debut of Balaji Balakrishnan (STAR Vijay TV’s Kana Kaanum Kaalangal, Pattaalam) and Meghana Raj (Bendu Appa Rao RMP -Telugu) in Tamil. Added to this, from the moment it was launched in early 2008, it has been in the tabloids for the amount of changes the casting has been gone through. At one stage, it seemed like a musical chairs contest rather a casting call.

2 years later, the movie releases with an awesome soundtrack, some commendable performances and natural cinematography. But when it comes to the storyline, you can pretty much figure it out within 20 minutes of the movie starting. Once again, I won’t be divulging into details but given Boopathy has penned the story again after Malaikottai, one can expect some rib-tickling moments. A mention must be made for Karthik Sabesh who plays Nanu Prabhu (Balaji)'s loyal friend, Petha Perumal. Even though the character of the best friend has become somewhat of a caricature in Tamil cinema lately, he is a pleasure to watch. He has very few serious scenes but even so, is immensely comfortable in front of the camera. Hopefully, this newcomer will be seen more often. As Nanu Prabhu, Balaji displays the varying emotions of first year college student -fresher- but still has a long way to go. The lovely Meghana leaves much to be desired as Sandhya. She fits the bill in the pretty category (reaping from the resemblance of Nayanthara?) but she's yet to show her heritage in talent as the daughter of yesteryear actors Sundarraj and Pramila. Even if for a few minutes Arya surprises but only because he is there (eye candy anyone?). Like the parents of both leads, he has very little to do.

Where the story falters, the music saves the day, to a degree. Yuvan's trusted mascots Vijay Yesudas and Karthik alongwith Udit Narayan, Chidambaram Sivakumar and Yuvan himself form a male only album. I don’t know if this was a gimmick but it definitely works with the story. The only thing I would complain about is that given the immense success of Paiyya, why does Yuvan settle so quickly on the Saamy Varuguthu track? As a typical brash masala track, it seems out of place both in the film and on the album.

This one is strictly for a lazy afternoon with nothing much to do.

Naan Mahaan Alla - Almost

If you were expecting a feel good film from Karthi, a grand re-entry to Tamil Filmdom by Kajal , or a rustic yet poetic film from Suseendran (Vennila Kabaddi Kuzhu), don't. In fact, whatever expectations you have about this film, I suggest you leave them at the door. Granted its not a path-breaking storyline, but in it, you do see a freshness that Suseendran started in VKK and has continued in a different genre, proving that he is a promising story-teller.

The film starts off simply with a group of 5 college goers playing soccer but quickly changes shade to show the darker side of these boys. On the other side of town, we meet Jeeva. A simple guy with a rose glassed view on life and generally sees the positive side of people and situations. Nothing amazing happens during this phase but none the less, quite amusing to see Karthi once again show his flare for comedy while he remains in control to not make a caricature out of his character. Anywho, just as our hero gets his wake up call and begins to see the reality in life.. Boom! Change again. Then Boom again! Before he knows it, our hero's life has no resemblance to how it was. While I don't want to give away the story, a simple way of saying it would be how a normal human being. No radical ideals, no major goals.Just your boy next door, gets pushed into dealing with a rare situtaion and how he this changes him. 

As mentioned before, Karthi is lovably casual in his comedy with his trademark "local" essence. He then switches gear to a tortured soul that is out to get answers. Somewhere along the line, he seems brings back a bit of Paruthiveeran. But still, believable and had almost everyone in the theatre hall in splits or crying. Kajal hasn't got much of a role in this as well so I'm hoping she is still looking some good projects in Tamil too. Jayaprakash however, got the vote from me. Honest, simple and realistic portrayal of a doting father without the cinematic tackiness or looking like a sentimental fool. A special mention must be made about the SCG- Sinister College Goers, who all are apparently newcomers. Each has a part but they put in their 2 cents worth.

Personally, I dont favour movies that have a strong blood quotient but Suseendran succeeds in manipulating the mind by not actually show that much blood but more rather letting the mind fill in the blanks. With stunning cinematography and in tune re-recording, you laugh, fear, cry and be merry on cue to the director. However, its not perfect and I believe there were quite a few dragging bits in the first half but it picks up again post the interval with several scenes being depicted within "hours" of occurrence. On the music front, unlike recent releases, Yuvan was strictly ok in this (I have yet to get over Paiyya/Awara)

All in all, its not your typical love story nor is a path-breaking story. However, it is simple and well made and if you like suspense, then do take a look.