Showing posts with label Tamil. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tamil. Show all posts
Saturday, 4 April 2015
Nanbenda Review
Cast : Udhayanidhi Stalin, Nayantara, Santhanam.
Music : Harris Jayaraj
Direction : Jagadeesh.
Expectations:
Nanbenda comes from the superhit combo (as they think) of Udhayanidhi Stalin and Santhanam, and there were expectations of witnessing a laugh riot on the lines of Oru Kal Oru Kannadi. However, debutante director Jagadeesh probably had other plans in mind. Coming from the school of Director M.Rajesh (known for
his no-brainers relying totally on Santhanam's comic antics like SMS, Boss Engira Baskaran, OK OK), Jagadeesh pays tribute to his master , not just by naming the movie after a famous line from Boss Engira Baskaran, but also decides to put his master's recent and worst ever attempt Azhaguraja to shame,by making this epic movie. Let's see who this Nanbenda is.
Plot:
Even after that introduction, if you are still looking for a plot, then here it is. Wayward hero Sathya falls for the
gorgeous, angelic bank employee Ramya, and takes his good for nothing bestie Siva kozhundhu's help to succeed in his romantic mission. Just When all things proceed positively, Sathya gets to know that Ramya is not the beautiful self she is outside, but has a dark secret.The lovers break up eventually,and fate forces Sathya and Siva Kozhundhu get entangled in a murder mystery. Whether the best friends come out of the crime web and unite with their respective pairs is what the tiresome Nanbenda is all about.
Performances:
Udhayanidhi stalin has come a long way in terms of dance,and that's it. He's still the same old guy we saw in OK OK, in terms of performance. Be it romance, anger, action or comedy, Udhay must be applauded for exhibiting the same expression throughout, and that certainly makes him worthy for an Oscar. The highpoints are the priceless expressions when he romances, looking into the eyes of the beautiful Nayan, and the "casual dialogue
tone" and so-called "humorous body language" he presents in comic situations. The role Udhay plays here is no
different from the roles he has played in his previous two acting ventures, but Udhay proves he's the perfect example for a bad actor who survives only because he funds his movies.
Nayantara looks beautiful, and that's it. She romances Udhay, appears in the songs in all kind of costumes, and just sleepwalks through the poorly written role. Since her return to filmdom after a brief sabbatical post the Prabhu deva episode, She started off well with successful ventures like Raja Rani and Aarambam, but if she continues featuring in movies of this kind (she starred in Udhay's previous dud Idhu kathirvelan as well), she might run out of offers, risking ending her career soon.
Santhanam yet again fails to deliver, and all his one liners and counters fall flat. None of his comedies evoke laughter, and he lets down the director big time.Post the azhaguraja debacle, none of his comedy tracks have clicked (except for a few like Endrendrum punnagai). Besides,his looks and mannerisms (particularly in Udhay's movies) has become monotonous and irritating.
The rest of the artistes like Pooja, Sayaji Shinde and Manobala are just wasted.
Technical departments:
Harris Jayaraj has delivered an unimpressive album post the successful Yennai arindhaal and Anegan numbers, and among all the songs, "Oorellam unnai kandu" works a bit, only because it looks like a rehashed mix of "En veettu thottathil" from Gentleman and "Sundari neeyum" from MMKR. Cinematography by Balasubramiem captures the songs well.Otherwise , there's nothing much in Nanbenda to exhibit technical excellence.
Jagadeesh could have definitely taken inspiration from his mentor Rajesh, but not to this extent. He has totally lifted the Hero-comedian pair characterization from Rajesh's movies like SMS, BEB and OK OK, presents intolerably silly sequences, throws an unexpectedly crass flashback sequence towards the interval, and tests the patience of the viewer with sequences that neither sustain interest nor evoke laughter. Did the maker think
Nayantara's flashback was funny ?? If it was meant to be funny, sorry Jagadeesh, the result actually was the audience exiting the theaters,immediately after that.The songs are unwarranted, and the whole murder-jail episodes of Santhanam and Udhay totally lack humour/freshness, and trouble the audience even more. When the proceedings end, you just get a relieved smile, only because the torture has ended.
Nanbenda is for sure a classic, that overpowers movies like Azhaguraja and Anjaan, which were subject to heavy criticism for the awkward making and the uninteresting content, and ends up making you wonder what made you invest 120 on this.
You can be excused for wishing someone would get some sense into making Udhayanidhi Stalin think about quitting acting after the highly negative reviews for his Nanbenda, but reality has it that, he has just felt "My choice, my money", and has started shooting for his next movies already, including "Gethu" with Amy Jackson, and one more "Idhayam murali" with Hansika. It's high time Udhay stops his mission of pairing up with all top heroines of South cinema (he has already paired with Hansika, Nayantara,and Kajal was supposed to star opposite him in Nanbenda,but it was Nayan who came in again) and quits acting, for, he's a bad actor(Much worse than the
likes of Karunakaran and Bobby's characeters in Jigarthanda).
He does have one positive aspect in him: he's one who can definitely fund good ventures. He has released many successful medium budget-commercially successful movies like VTV, Ko, Madarasapattinam, TEOA,
acting - any thoughts Udhay ??
What works : Nothing actually.
What doesn't : Everything from the starting till the end.
VERDICT : A Classic that puts Azhaguraja and Anjaan to shame. Pathetic, painful experiene for the viewer.
2/10
Cast : Udhayanidhi Stalin, Nayantara, Santhanam.
Music : Harris Jayaraj
Direction : Jagadeesh.
Expectations:
Nanbenda comes from the superhit combo (as they think) of Udhayanidhi Stalin and Santhanam, and there were expectations of witnessing a laugh riot on the lines of Oru Kal Oru Kannadi. However, debutante director Jagadeesh probably had other plans in mind. Coming from the school of Director M.Rajesh (known for
his no-brainers relying totally on Santhanam's comic antics like SMS, Boss Engira Baskaran, OK OK), Jagadeesh pays tribute to his master , not just by naming the movie after a famous line from Boss Engira Baskaran, but also decides to put his master's recent and worst ever attempt Azhaguraja to shame,by making this epic movie. Let's see who this Nanbenda is.
Plot:
Even after that introduction, if you are still looking for a plot, then here it is. Wayward hero Sathya falls for the
gorgeous, angelic bank employee Ramya, and takes his good for nothing bestie Siva kozhundhu's help to succeed in his romantic mission. Just When all things proceed positively, Sathya gets to know that Ramya is not the beautiful self she is outside, but has a dark secret.The lovers break up eventually,and fate forces Sathya and Siva Kozhundhu get entangled in a murder mystery. Whether the best friends come out of the crime web and unite with their respective pairs is what the tiresome Nanbenda is all about.
Performances:
Udhayanidhi stalin has come a long way in terms of dance,and that's it. He's still the same old guy we saw in OK OK, in terms of performance. Be it romance, anger, action or comedy, Udhay must be applauded for exhibiting the same expression throughout, and that certainly makes him worthy for an Oscar. The highpoints are the priceless expressions when he romances, looking into the eyes of the beautiful Nayan, and the "casual dialogue
tone" and so-called "humorous body language" he presents in comic situations. The role Udhay plays here is no
different from the roles he has played in his previous two acting ventures, but Udhay proves he's the perfect example for a bad actor who survives only because he funds his movies.
Nayantara looks beautiful, and that's it. She romances Udhay, appears in the songs in all kind of costumes, and just sleepwalks through the poorly written role. Since her return to filmdom after a brief sabbatical post the Prabhu deva episode, She started off well with successful ventures like Raja Rani and Aarambam, but if she continues featuring in movies of this kind (she starred in Udhay's previous dud Idhu kathirvelan as well), she might run out of offers, risking ending her career soon.
Santhanam yet again fails to deliver, and all his one liners and counters fall flat. None of his comedies evoke laughter, and he lets down the director big time.Post the azhaguraja debacle, none of his comedy tracks have clicked (except for a few like Endrendrum punnagai). Besides,his looks and mannerisms (particularly in Udhay's movies) has become monotonous and irritating.
The rest of the artistes like Pooja, Sayaji Shinde and Manobala are just wasted.
Technical departments:
Harris Jayaraj has delivered an unimpressive album post the successful Yennai arindhaal and Anegan numbers, and among all the songs, "Oorellam unnai kandu" works a bit, only because it looks like a rehashed mix of "En veettu thottathil" from Gentleman and "Sundari neeyum" from MMKR. Cinematography by Balasubramiem captures the songs well.Otherwise , there's nothing much in Nanbenda to exhibit technical excellence.
Jagadeesh could have definitely taken inspiration from his mentor Rajesh, but not to this extent. He has totally lifted the Hero-comedian pair characterization from Rajesh's movies like SMS, BEB and OK OK, presents intolerably silly sequences, throws an unexpectedly crass flashback sequence towards the interval, and tests the patience of the viewer with sequences that neither sustain interest nor evoke laughter. Did the maker think
Nayantara's flashback was funny ?? If it was meant to be funny, sorry Jagadeesh, the result actually was the audience exiting the theaters,immediately after that.The songs are unwarranted, and the whole murder-jail episodes of Santhanam and Udhay totally lack humour/freshness, and trouble the audience even more. When the proceedings end, you just get a relieved smile, only because the torture has ended.
Nanbenda is for sure a classic, that overpowers movies like Azhaguraja and Anjaan, which were subject to heavy criticism for the awkward making and the uninteresting content, and ends up making you wonder what made you invest 120 on this.
You can be excused for wishing someone would get some sense into making Udhayanidhi Stalin think about quitting acting after the highly negative reviews for his Nanbenda, but reality has it that, he has just felt "My choice, my money", and has started shooting for his next movies already, including "Gethu" with Amy Jackson, and one more "Idhayam murali" with Hansika. It's high time Udhay stops his mission of pairing up with all top heroines of South cinema (he has already paired with Hansika, Nayantara,and Kajal was supposed to star opposite him in Nanbenda,but it was Nayan who came in again) and quits acting, for, he's a bad actor(Much worse than the
likes of Karunakaran and Bobby's characeters in Jigarthanda).
He does have one positive aspect in him: he's one who can definitely fund good ventures. He has released many successful medium budget-commercially successful movies like VTV, Ko, Madarasapattinam, TEOA,
acting - any thoughts Udhay ??
What works : Nothing actually.
What doesn't : Everything from the starting till the end.
VERDICT : A Classic that puts Azhaguraja and Anjaan to shame. Pathetic, painful experiene for the viewer.
2/10
Thursday, 2 April 2015
Movie: Raajathandhiram
Director: AG Amid
Cast: Veera, Darbuka Siva, Regina Cassandra
Cinematography: SR Kadhir
Background Score: Sandeep Chowta
Rajathandhiram comes backed up by big names such as Fox Star Studios and Goutham Vasudev Menon, so the general expectation is that it ought to be good. Also making his comeback is Veera Bahu who played a controversial psychopath murderer in Goutham Menon's 'Nadunisi Naaygal' makes a comeback.
Arjun (Veera), Austin (Darbuka Siva) and Deva (Ajai Prasath) are small time crooks, indulging in intelligently planned petty crimes. By chance, they happen to meet up Michelle (Regina Cassandra), whose father had to commit suicide due to mounting debts after being cheated by a financier Dharma (Aadukalam Naren). Even after many years, Michelle is still attempting to pay off the debts. When Arjun finds out that his next heist is to rob from the same people who had cheated Michelle, he jumps straight into the plan even though it is riskier than any other heist they have done before. Whether the crooks succeeded in their attempt makes for a joyful adventure.
In fact this movie can be called a distant cousin of 'Soodhu Kavvum'. The story is about a group of small time con men trying to make it big in a bank robbery. The concept may sound very similar to 'Soodhu Kavvum', in fact there is even 'Kaasu.. Panam..' song from the movie playing in the background in one of the scenes. But the similarities end there. This movie has a strong moral compass (unlike SK) and tells you that all sins have a price and the price must be paid, in a rather light hearted manner. In fact, much part of Rajathandhiram moves in a brisk pace because the movie, though is tense and suspenseful at times, but never takes itself too seriously.
There are some wonderful suspenseful stretches, like the scene where Arjun and co try to rob a bag full of cash. While in most Tamil movies, the hero would effortlessly cheat the other guy and run away with the bag, things turn awfully messy and the crooks have to improvise on the go. This is where the direction, the clever script and screenplay stand out and make you want to applaud.
There is unbelievable amount of levity brought to the movie, thanks to the timing and sarcasm of Dharbuka Shiva. There are tens of memorable dialogues that he effortlessly mouths that after a point the audience seem to be laughing for everything that came from his mouth. Great new talent! The next most impressive performer of the movie is Pattiyal Sekar as Kanchi Azhagappan, who is the main antagonist, equally brilliant as the hero and matches him move to move in the game of cat and mouse (or valai-eli-pori, as Veera remarks).
Regina Cassandra as Michelle does a neat job of the little time that she has to come on screen, looks beauiful and does justice to her role. Aadukalam Naren as Dharma and Ilavarasu as Madhavan Iyer do a neat job of their respective roles.
There is only one song in the movie, a romantic duet between Arjun and Michelle, which has been handled in the most tasteful way that you would see a tamil movie romantic song handled in recent times. There is no foreign location, no fast dance moves, but just interesting and sweet performances by the lead actors that make the song interesting. That alone is a testament of how smart, sound and innovative bunch of technicians are those involved in this movie.
With the ever growing bunch of nonsense comedy flicks around us, Rajathandhiram is one movie that dares to provide quality entertainment that doesn't take your intelligence for granted. Go watch it before some so-called-big-movies forces it out of the theatres.
Director: AG Amid
Cast: Veera, Darbuka Siva, Regina Cassandra
Cinematography: SR Kadhir
Background Score: Sandeep Chowta
Rajathandhiram comes backed up by big names such as Fox Star Studios and Goutham Vasudev Menon, so the general expectation is that it ought to be good. Also making his comeback is Veera Bahu who played a controversial psychopath murderer in Goutham Menon's 'Nadunisi Naaygal' makes a comeback.
Arjun (Veera), Austin (Darbuka Siva) and Deva (Ajai Prasath) are small time crooks, indulging in intelligently planned petty crimes. By chance, they happen to meet up Michelle (Regina Cassandra), whose father had to commit suicide due to mounting debts after being cheated by a financier Dharma (Aadukalam Naren). Even after many years, Michelle is still attempting to pay off the debts. When Arjun finds out that his next heist is to rob from the same people who had cheated Michelle, he jumps straight into the plan even though it is riskier than any other heist they have done before. Whether the crooks succeeded in their attempt makes for a joyful adventure.
In fact this movie can be called a distant cousin of 'Soodhu Kavvum'. The story is about a group of small time con men trying to make it big in a bank robbery. The concept may sound very similar to 'Soodhu Kavvum', in fact there is even 'Kaasu.. Panam..' song from the movie playing in the background in one of the scenes. But the similarities end there. This movie has a strong moral compass (unlike SK) and tells you that all sins have a price and the price must be paid, in a rather light hearted manner. In fact, much part of Rajathandhiram moves in a brisk pace because the movie, though is tense and suspenseful at times, but never takes itself too seriously.
There are some wonderful suspenseful stretches, like the scene where Arjun and co try to rob a bag full of cash. While in most Tamil movies, the hero would effortlessly cheat the other guy and run away with the bag, things turn awfully messy and the crooks have to improvise on the go. This is where the direction, the clever script and screenplay stand out and make you want to applaud.
There is unbelievable amount of levity brought to the movie, thanks to the timing and sarcasm of Dharbuka Shiva. There are tens of memorable dialogues that he effortlessly mouths that after a point the audience seem to be laughing for everything that came from his mouth. Great new talent! The next most impressive performer of the movie is Pattiyal Sekar as Kanchi Azhagappan, who is the main antagonist, equally brilliant as the hero and matches him move to move in the game of cat and mouse (or valai-eli-pori, as Veera remarks).
Regina Cassandra as Michelle does a neat job of the little time that she has to come on screen, looks beauiful and does justice to her role. Aadukalam Naren as Dharma and Ilavarasu as Madhavan Iyer do a neat job of their respective roles.
There is only one song in the movie, a romantic duet between Arjun and Michelle, which has been handled in the most tasteful way that you would see a tamil movie romantic song handled in recent times. There is no foreign location, no fast dance moves, but just interesting and sweet performances by the lead actors that make the song interesting. That alone is a testament of how smart, sound and innovative bunch of technicians are those involved in this movie.
With the ever growing bunch of nonsense comedy flicks around us, Rajathandhiram is one movie that dares to provide quality entertainment that doesn't take your intelligence for granted. Go watch it before some so-called-big-movies forces it out of the theatres.
Saturday, 7 March 2015
Movie : Enakkul Oruvan
Cast : Sidhharth,Deepa Sannidhi,Narain
Music : Santhosh Narayanan
Direction : Prasad Ramar
Screenplay : Pawankumar
Cast : Sidhharth,Deepa Sannidhi,Narain
Music : Santhosh Narayanan
Direction : Prasad Ramar
Screenplay : Pawankumar
Expectations :
Enakkul Oruvan, directed by debutante Prasad Ramar, is the official remake of the crowd funded Kannada superhit "Lucia" by debutant director Pawankumar. The original had fresh faces, but the refreshing concept made the small budget venture a huge hit. The tamil version has got some popular faces like Sidhharth, Narain onboard and was expected to better the success of the original. Does the movie live up to the expectations ? Let's see.
Enakkul Oruvan, directed by debutante Prasad Ramar, is the official remake of the crowd funded Kannada superhit "Lucia" by debutant director Pawankumar. The original had fresh faces, but the refreshing concept made the small budget venture a huge hit. The tamil version has got some popular faces like Sidhharth, Narain onboard and was expected to better the success of the original. Does the movie live up to the expectations ? Let's see.
Plot :
The movie revolves around Vichy (Sidhharth), an insomniac worker in a theater owned by Dubai (Narain). Situations lead him to get hold of a sleeping pill Lucia - which is not just that. It is a dream inducer, and induces dreams of what a person thinks about, and the dream will continue whenever the person sleeps, forever. Meanwhile he also falls for a simple girl Divya, working in a pizza shop. He dreams of a sophisticated life, where Vicky is a superstar, and Divya is an upcoming model and aspiring film actress, with Durai being his only companion/mentor.
Vicky the star's life is constantly under threat, besides he need to save his love as well.The reality too gets tough, at a point when Durai is killed and Vicky takes over the theater. When we look out for the culmination of the dream and the reality parts with an apt end, Enakkul Oruvan throws a surprise revelation at the end, which is just mindblowing, and makes the whole movie viewing experience worth it.
Performances :
Sidhharth doesn't quite fit in as the local theater worker guy, and his dialogue delivery as well the looks seems forced and artificial. Though he emotes well in that part, it takes the backseat when compared to the uber cool and stylish superstar Vicky. As the star living a luxurious life, he exhibits the feel of a man enjoying lavish lifestyle, the ego, anger and desperation with consummate ease. Credits to his stylist for this particular role.
Deepa Sannidhi impresses more as the pizza shop girl, and does a fairly decent job in the other role as well. The girl shows traces of acting, and is sure to go places if she could improve her emoting abilities further (lessening the focus on glamour, which she actually specializes in!!). Narain does a fine supporting act that deserves mention. The other artistes including Muneeskanth fame Ramados, Maheshwaran (Office TV serial fame), Yog Jaypee and Srushti Dange (definitely could have gone for a better casting for her part) are wasted in insignificant roles.
Technical Departments and Direction:
Gopi Amarnath's cinematography captures the black and white stylish part of the star vicky as well as the surroundings of the poor theater staff vicky perfectly. Santhosh Narayanan could have come up with even better numbers, though "Prabalamagavey" conveys the lifestyle of the superstar and "Poo avizhum" just gels well with the theme of the movie. However, he compensates with his impressive BGM for most part. Leo John Paul's editing could have been taut, and they could have definitely trimmed few sequences and chopped off 2 songs (the one with the foreigners in particular) to improve the pace of the movie.
Debutant Prasad Ramar has played safe, and has opted for a scene by scene remake without any change to the original. However, the movie (even in its original) moves at its own pace, and often tests the patience of the viewer. Besides casting Sidhharth in the local guy's part just doesn't work, even though he comes up with an earnest performance. And complete credits to the screenplay by Pawankumar, especially for the stunning climax. Prasad could have done away with two songs (Yendi and Kutti poochi), which could have definitely improved the viewing experience. The plot is simple, even in both the parts (Dream/reality) and as the best part comes only in the end, Prasad could have pepped up the proceedings with interesting sequences to sustain viewer's interest.
However he decides to stick to the original screenplay, and as a result Enakkul Oruvan becomes a patience test for few viewers who come in looking for pace,action and all other masala elements that one could associate with any commercial movie. However, if you are looking for something different, Enakkul oruvan will surprise you, with its well conceived climax.
What works : The superb climax, Sidhharth in the stylish star part, BGM
What doesn't : Sidhharth's unconvincing theater guy act, Lack of pace, songs.
P.S: For those who haven't watched Lucia (original), and for those who love to see something new, Enakkul oruvan will be a treat !!
VERDICT: Clear the patience test, you could enjoy this dream pill Lucia.
7.5/10
Saturday, 21 February 2015
Thamizhukku En Ondrai Azhuthavum
Cast : Nakul, Dinesh,Sathish, Urvasi,Bindhu Madhavi, Aishwarya Dutta.
Music : S.S.Thaman
Direction : Ramprakash Rayappa.
Coming from Debutante Ramprakash Rayappa, Thamizhukku en Ondrai Azhuthavum falls in the hyperlink cinema category (Vaanam, Chennaiyil Oru naal.etc). The lead actors Nakul and Dinesh are desperate to earn a hit, after the previous releases(Vallinam and Thirudan police respectively) bit the dust despite critics favoring them.So what's TEOA about? Let's see.
Plot: The movie is based on the geo-magentic storm , and its after effects on mobile users in Chennai, linking 4 different characters - Mugil, a real estate promoter(Dinesh), Vasanth ( A tech wizard from Otteri),a cab driver (Sathish) and a terrorist plotting a bomb blast(Asif) in Chennai.How Vasanth plays a pivotal role in overcoming the effects of the geo-magentic storm, in the process helping Mugil getting his girl,besides saving lots of lives is what TEOA is all about.
Performances:
Nakul after a pretty decent performance in Vallinam, once again comes up with a neat performance as the unrecognized brainy techie Vasanth, who can provide a quick solution for things(He has improved much on his voice and body language, which helps him create the impact).
Dinesh still is in his Attakathi hangover, however gets through as the character does not demand a great performance from him. It's high time he makes a note of his dialogue delivery and performances,which is getting monotonous.After that awesome act in Cuckoo, Dinesh is now facing the danger of getting typecast in Attakathi type roles.
Sathish,after his not so funny acts in recent movies he featured (Kathhi, Aambala),tries to tickle the funny bone here too, and partly succeeds with his oneliners and counters. The best character artist in the movie is Urvasi, as the mother of Nakul, she impresses with her comic acts and dialogues with the right mix of tech and satire (ECE easy aa padichudureenga....practical thaan onnum theriya maatenguthu).The heroines do not have anything to do in TEOA, as they are reduced to mere set properties. Bindhu Madhavi looks like a doll, and that's it.
Technical departments:
Thaman's BGM doesn't quite create the impact needed for this social thriller genre taking place in a day.There are 2 songs in TEOA,and they do not deserve any mention.Deepak Kumar padhy's cinematography is apt. Editing by Sabu is taut, and at a crisp 2 hrs and 21 minutes, TEOA doesn't test the patience of the viewers.
Direction:
Debutante director Ramprakash Rayappa has come up with an interesting premise, with lot of technical concepts involved, and he fairly succeeds with his story telling abilities. The way he uses Nakul's character to interlink every other character and impact their lives,and making the intended funny character of Sathish as the fulcrum (besides, the mobile thief role helps the screenplay perfectly) deserves a pat.
The characterisations are quirky and interesting, but Ramprakash, could have come up with some more interesting sequences rather than just making Vasanth speak technical things throughout the movie (the second half has him speaking terms like BSC, TRX and all that for most part, which may not sustain every viewer's interest), as it may not cater to all sections of the audience.The romance between Dinesh and Bindhu Madhavi could have been more lively, and the whole track looks forced just to make sure there's this subplot too in the movie.Otherwise, Ramprakash could have done away with just 2 roles, with Dinesh taking up Sathish's role. Nevertheless, TEOA is a decent,engaging entertainer, that won't let you down.
What works:
The concept and the characters.
What doesn't:
Lack of interesting sequences,a flat climax.
VERDICT: Interesting backdrop and characters make this one worth a watch.
6.5/10
Friday, 13 February 2015
Anegan
Cast: Dhanush,Karthik,Amyra Dastur,Ashish Vidyarthi.
Direction : K.V.Anand
Music: Harris Jayaraj.
Cinematography: Om Prakash.
Anegan comes from the fresh combo of Dhanush - K.V.Anand ,and has released with decent expectations after the former's 2014 blockbuster Velayilla Pattadhari, and the latter's dud Maatrraan. From the promos and the trailers, one could tell that Anegan is a fantasy love story that transcends time. Let's see what Anegan is all about.
Plot:
Madhu (Amyra) has consistent visions of her previous births, and gets to know the love story she had in her previous births. Justifying her visions, she also gets to meet Ashwin (Dhanush), her lover in her previous births. During her attempt to prove Ashwin about their bond that transcends across different timelines, she gets to know some shocking truths, and the evil surrounding her. Now it's up to Ashwin to realise who he was once, demolish the evil around Madhu, and unite with his love in this avatar. Whether he does so forms the rest of the plot.
Performances:
This is one movie where Dhanush's craze with the Gen Y audience is utilized more than his excellent acting abilities. Anegan is a cakewalk for Dhanush, and he excels in all the roles with consummate ease. Performance wise, he shines as the Vyasarpadi tough guy with a heart of gold, Kali, and the simple, innocent Burmese boy, Murugappa, lost in love. More than the techie Ashwin and the prince Ilamaran (the character appears only in Roja Kadale number and the climax), these two characters get a scope to emote, and are close to the audience.
However, the scene stealer in this movie is Karthik, and this is his real comeback movie (he looked tired and underutilized in movies like Ravanan and Maanja Velu). As the suave and stylish techie boss Ravi Kiran - a mastermind with his own plans, and eyes set on a target for years - the navarasa nayagan is back!
The good looking Amyra Dastur, tries hard to emote, mouth Tamil lines, and though her lip sync is a matter of concern, the plot completely revolves around her, and she does a fair job.The rest of the artistes including Aishwarya Deven, Ashish Vidyarthi, Mukesh Rishi,and Jagan do not get much scope in the racy screenplay.
Direction:
K.V.Anand, makes a perfect comeback, with this rebirth-love fantasy action movie, after the disastrous Maatrraan. He has made use of Dhanush's thirst to experiment with different genres, and complements that with a pacy screenplay, sans major drags. He completely keeps the viewer engaged throughout, and makes the viewer think "What next?". The movie would have easily gone the Maatrrran way, had Ashwin started to explore on the thought stimulating drug and its effects on employees of Tentacles corp. But the way Karthik's character is designed,Dhanush's Kali-Murugappa act, the twists, the pacy screenplay, and the way K.V.Anand - Subha combo untie the knots in the plot and unravel the mystery in the second half sustains the audience interest, and take Anegan to the winning post.
Technical Departments:
Of the songs by Harris Jayaraj, Dangamaari tops, followed by Roja kadale and Aathaadi which are humworthy.The rest of the songs do not deserve mention, and actually hamper the pace of the movie. Om Prakash's cinematography captures the exotic Burmese locales, as well as the high-tech tentacles office.The Burma sequences carry splendid visuals ,and the fights are shot perfectly.
What Works:
A reasonably taut script with a fresh narration, good performance from the lead actors and excellent dialogues.
What Doesn't:
A few songs (YOLO in particular) which hamper the pace of the movie, and a few logical loopholes (like Aishwarya Deven's character doesn't have any huge impact other than Burmese part, and her character's mysterious end goes unexplained).
Verdict: You won't regret the time-travel journey with this Dangamari !!
8/10
Wednesday, 11 February 2015
So, Valentine's Day is around the corner and you are still the Single Soup Boy in your gang, bored and alone. While there is an India-Pakistan match on Feb 15, you still have to get through an excruciating Feb 14, where all your other friends are posting couple pics all over your wall. Well, if it will make you feel any better, you are not alone.
Here, we have compiled some pathos songs to, well, match your mood. We have included all varities of Pathos from melodious to Kuthu. :D Here's our top 12, in no particular order. Have fun!
1. Kaadhal En Kaadhal - Mayakkam Enna
Sung by Dhanush and Selvaraagavan, this song was an instant hit among the masses mainly for it's pedestrian lyrics (yes, thats a fad these days :P) and surreal picturization. Dhanush brings this song alive like nobody else could have with his trademark expressions. Go watch, now and bring out the Dhanush in you!
2. Evano Oruvan - Alaipaayuthe
The rendering of this song by the late singer Swarnalatha is so beautiful that this song haunted me for days after I first listened to it. This came at a time when Rahman was at the peak of his powers, whatever he touched was turning into gold. Be it the choice of singer or the song picturization or the deft handling of percussion, everything is near perfect in this beauty of a song.
3. Poongatrile Un Swaasathai - Uyire
Any Tamil Pathos list would be incomplete without this heart-rending score from A.R. Rahman for Uyire. It is not uncommon for people to listen to this song and realize they have shed tears at the end. How can you pin point the greatness of this song: the beautiful lyrics of Vairamuthu compete with the stirring music of Rahman and the soulful voices of Unni Menon and Swarnalatha makes this song an evergreen hit. Watch and feel the pain of love.
4. Po Nee Po - Moonu (3)
Speaking of the 'Pain of Love', there's an instant hit from the young music sensation, Anirudh Ravichander, that comes to mind: Po Nee Po sung by Mohit Chauhan. In his very debut film, Anirudh had a dream debut his 'Why This Kolaveri' becoming a viral hit all around the world. But for us, it is this song, that is even better than WTK, which finds a place in this list. One more from Dhanush - is he the mascot of Tamil Pathos or what?
5. Kaadhal Vandhaal Solli Anupu - Iyarkai
More than Vidhyasaagar's music - its brilliant - or the beautiful picturization or some effective performance by Shaam and Kutti Radhika, what makes this song a great Pathos hit is the terrifc lyrics. Sample this: The protagonist, who is a worker in a ship, at his angst over his unrequited love sings, 'En kanner vazhiye, uyirum veliye, karaiyil karaindhu irukiren' (Through my tears, my my soul leaves and dissolves at the sea shore). Take a bow, Vairamuthu ji.
6. Ava Enna Enna Thedi Vandha Anjala - Vaaranam Aayiram
So, to all you Surya fans out there, we haven't missed out on this song. Well, even if you are not one, some beautiful picturization, peppy music and the unique voice of Karthik (we can make a list of Karthik's Pathos and that would be quite a huge list as well), makes this song a watch-worthy one. One more terrific hit to the list of Gautham Menon - Harris - Thamarai combo.
7. Sakkarai Nilave - Youth
This is trademark Vijay style pathos with casual shirts and wise musings. Sakkarai Nilave stands out mainly for the voice of Harish Raghavendra and the straight-out-of-heart and simple lyrics and makes this song a fondly remembered one for all the 'youth' of the 2000s.
8. Kaadhal Valarthen - Manmadhan
When Yuvan was at his creative best, Kaadhal Valarthen was one of his masterpieces. The song is almost 7 minutes long, but when it ends, you are left wanting for more. The selection of KK to render the song was the stroke of a genius: it was a voice not heard before and the beat was catchy: and the craze for the song spread like a wildfire among audience. Although this is not a love-failure song, it is almost equivalent to one, given the story-arc and the feel rendered by KK. The girl accepts his love, but there is no happiness in this song: it is just a heart-wrenching display of how mad the guy has fallen in love with the girl and finally that the girl has said 'yes', he sings this song and vents all his heart-felt feelings.
9. Kaadhal Rojave - Roja
How can a list of Pathos - not just Tamil, but even Indian - be complete without the inclusion of Kaadhal Rojave (Roja Jaaneman in Hindi). As the song begins, when that now infamous humming of Sujatha comes, you are lost for words, which is then followed by the magnetic voice of S.P.B that tugs at your heartstrings. Just when the lyrics are over, you think that there will be some respite, but the genius that he is, Rahman ensures that thee will be none with his beats. People finally understood how effective Stereo can be with this song. And they still haven't stopped listening.
10. Unna Nenachen - Aboorva Sagodharargal
The maestro, Ilayaraja, has composed numerous pathos numbers, but the one that stands the test of time is 'Unna Nenachen' from Aboorva Sagodharargal. Unrequited love is always painful, but when it is portrayed by the genius of Kamal Hassan on screen against a touching song like this, it takes the feel to totally another level. Great lyrics and picturization are added plusses.
11. Enge Enadhu Kavidhai - Kandukonden Kandukonden
It would be impossible to classify which song of singer Chitra is her best and there would be highly different views among different people, all for good reasons, but if there is one song that I believe should be there in the best songs of Chitra in everyone's list, it is this. What masterful rendition. She takes the feel of the song to another level. And the genius, Rahman akes care of the music part. Need I say more?
12. Kann Pesum Vaarthaigal - 7/G Rainbow Colony
Selvaraghavan's movies are incomplete without Pathos in some form or the other. So here's our second song, again from another Selvaraghavan movie. What makes this Yuvan Shankar Raja's song an instant hit is the terrific mood around it and the excellent rendition by the singer, Karthik. This song was on repeat mode when the movie's album was released and is still a regular in late-night radio shows!
Here, we have compiled some pathos songs to, well, match your mood. We have included all varities of Pathos from melodious to Kuthu. :D Here's our top 12, in no particular order. Have fun!
1. Kaadhal En Kaadhal - Mayakkam Enna
Sung by Dhanush and Selvaraagavan, this song was an instant hit among the masses mainly for it's pedestrian lyrics (yes, thats a fad these days :P) and surreal picturization. Dhanush brings this song alive like nobody else could have with his trademark expressions. Go watch, now and bring out the Dhanush in you!
2. Evano Oruvan - Alaipaayuthe
The rendering of this song by the late singer Swarnalatha is so beautiful that this song haunted me for days after I first listened to it. This came at a time when Rahman was at the peak of his powers, whatever he touched was turning into gold. Be it the choice of singer or the song picturization or the deft handling of percussion, everything is near perfect in this beauty of a song.
3. Poongatrile Un Swaasathai - Uyire
Any Tamil Pathos list would be incomplete without this heart-rending score from A.R. Rahman for Uyire. It is not uncommon for people to listen to this song and realize they have shed tears at the end. How can you pin point the greatness of this song: the beautiful lyrics of Vairamuthu compete with the stirring music of Rahman and the soulful voices of Unni Menon and Swarnalatha makes this song an evergreen hit. Watch and feel the pain of love.
4. Po Nee Po - Moonu (3)
Speaking of the 'Pain of Love', there's an instant hit from the young music sensation, Anirudh Ravichander, that comes to mind: Po Nee Po sung by Mohit Chauhan. In his very debut film, Anirudh had a dream debut his 'Why This Kolaveri' becoming a viral hit all around the world. But for us, it is this song, that is even better than WTK, which finds a place in this list. One more from Dhanush - is he the mascot of Tamil Pathos or what?
5. Kaadhal Vandhaal Solli Anupu - Iyarkai
More than Vidhyasaagar's music - its brilliant - or the beautiful picturization or some effective performance by Shaam and Kutti Radhika, what makes this song a great Pathos hit is the terrifc lyrics. Sample this: The protagonist, who is a worker in a ship, at his angst over his unrequited love sings, 'En kanner vazhiye, uyirum veliye, karaiyil karaindhu irukiren' (Through my tears, my my soul leaves and dissolves at the sea shore). Take a bow, Vairamuthu ji.
6. Ava Enna Enna Thedi Vandha Anjala - Vaaranam Aayiram
So, to all you Surya fans out there, we haven't missed out on this song. Well, even if you are not one, some beautiful picturization, peppy music and the unique voice of Karthik (we can make a list of Karthik's Pathos and that would be quite a huge list as well), makes this song a watch-worthy one. One more terrific hit to the list of Gautham Menon - Harris - Thamarai combo.
7. Sakkarai Nilave - Youth
This is trademark Vijay style pathos with casual shirts and wise musings. Sakkarai Nilave stands out mainly for the voice of Harish Raghavendra and the straight-out-of-heart and simple lyrics and makes this song a fondly remembered one for all the 'youth' of the 2000s.
8. Kaadhal Valarthen - Manmadhan
When Yuvan was at his creative best, Kaadhal Valarthen was one of his masterpieces. The song is almost 7 minutes long, but when it ends, you are left wanting for more. The selection of KK to render the song was the stroke of a genius: it was a voice not heard before and the beat was catchy: and the craze for the song spread like a wildfire among audience. Although this is not a love-failure song, it is almost equivalent to one, given the story-arc and the feel rendered by KK. The girl accepts his love, but there is no happiness in this song: it is just a heart-wrenching display of how mad the guy has fallen in love with the girl and finally that the girl has said 'yes', he sings this song and vents all his heart-felt feelings.
9. Kaadhal Rojave - Roja
How can a list of Pathos - not just Tamil, but even Indian - be complete without the inclusion of Kaadhal Rojave (Roja Jaaneman in Hindi). As the song begins, when that now infamous humming of Sujatha comes, you are lost for words, which is then followed by the magnetic voice of S.P.B that tugs at your heartstrings. Just when the lyrics are over, you think that there will be some respite, but the genius that he is, Rahman ensures that thee will be none with his beats. People finally understood how effective Stereo can be with this song. And they still haven't stopped listening.
10. Unna Nenachen - Aboorva Sagodharargal
The maestro, Ilayaraja, has composed numerous pathos numbers, but the one that stands the test of time is 'Unna Nenachen' from Aboorva Sagodharargal. Unrequited love is always painful, but when it is portrayed by the genius of Kamal Hassan on screen against a touching song like this, it takes the feel to totally another level. Great lyrics and picturization are added plusses.
11. Enge Enadhu Kavidhai - Kandukonden Kandukonden
It would be impossible to classify which song of singer Chitra is her best and there would be highly different views among different people, all for good reasons, but if there is one song that I believe should be there in the best songs of Chitra in everyone's list, it is this. What masterful rendition. She takes the feel of the song to another level. And the genius, Rahman akes care of the music part. Need I say more?
12. Kann Pesum Vaarthaigal - 7/G Rainbow Colony
Selvaraghavan's movies are incomplete without Pathos in some form or the other. So here's our second song, again from another Selvaraghavan movie. What makes this Yuvan Shankar Raja's song an instant hit is the terrific mood around it and the excellent rendition by the singer, Karthik. This song was on repeat mode when the movie's album was released and is still a regular in late-night radio shows!
Honorary Mentions:
1. Minnale Nee - May Maadham
2. En Kaadhale - Duet
3. Ennai Kaanavillaye - Kaadhal Desam
4. Mannipaaya - Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya
4. Mannipaaya - Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya
(We couldn't just place them in this list because then we would have had to call this list top 10 Rahman pathos! Sorry, Rahmanians!)
4. Kaathirundhu Kaathirundhu
5. Pen Manasu
(A Little Too Old for everybody's liking. Sorry Raja fans!)
6. Venaam Machan Venaam - OKOK
7. Kanave Kanave - David
8. Yamma Yamma - 7aam Arivu
9. Devadhaiyai Kanden - Kaadhal Konden
10. Oru Poiyaavadhu Sol Kanne - Jodi
(We felt these were good, but not as good as our original list)
Think we missed out on some favourite song of yours? Make sure you mention them in the comments and we will review them and add them too to our list.
Think we missed out on some favourite song of yours? Make sure you mention them in the comments and we will review them and add them too to our list.
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