Jigarthanda

Right across the country, there are tons of people waiting for a movie, which is about to release in few hours. Ever since its place in the Forbes India list, this film has been popping up at regular intervals, taking the expectations to an all time high. Jigarthanda releases tomorrow after crossing a plethora of hurdles, and here is what I feel about this film.

Jigarthanda tells you the story of Karthi Subramaniam (Siddharth) an aspiring young director who sets out to make a rustic gangster film. He locks Madurai as his backdrop, and lands there to cultivate ideas to pen the script. On reaching there he and his friend Oorni (Karuna Karan) perform a case study on the ferocious local don Sethu (Simhaa). What happens thereafter is an experience, something I'd recommend watching on the big screen.

The Tamil industry is lucky enough to have a large number of classy performers, talented actors and handsome lads. We call them heroes. Each one of them slot themselves into different scripts, with an intent to help it succeed both critically and/or commercially. Jigarthanda is one of those very few movies which has the script as its hero. The film rather than banking on an individual, gives importance to various characters at various parts. Siddharth, Simhaa and Karuna Karan being the pillars, Jigarthanda traverses on a path less travelled, a story which is an attempt to present an out-of-the-box picture. The intense first half works mainly on a gruesome Simhaa, underplaying Siddharth and the king pick Karuna Karan who is an asset, bringing in the apt amounts of laughter at the right places. Coming into the second half, the movies gets into a different sleeve, as the characters in the film reveal their other sides receiving completely contrast reactions from the audience. This is where Jigarthanda turns into an experimental film and throws the option to the viewer to make or break his verdict on the film.

Siddharth is a lucky chap to have signed this film, and once again the actor does what is expected of him. He manages to exhibit an innocent look, or a thrashing attitude, as the script demands him to. On the other side, it is Simhaa who comes to the scene with a bang, overshadowing all the other artists in the cast. His mean looks with the rough mane, or his evil laughs are a treat to watch as we pave way to another piece of pure talent. Karuna Karan is the perfect comedian, along with Lakshmi Menon who satisfies in a fairly smaller role. The rest of the cast are good too, be it Piraisudan, Soundara Raja or the other sidekicks. Kudos to Karthik Subburaj for fitting in interesting cameos without flushing them at unnecessary places.

Cinematography by Gavemic U.Ary is brilliant, to say the least. His camera angles are ravishing right from the first frame, and the color tones are seriously something to watch out for. The 2 hour and 50 minute runtime doesn't wander around for long, barring a few scenes in the second half. However, the length might end up being a worry for those who don't develop a liking for the proceedings.  Music by Santosh Narayan gels well with the film, as most of them are used for the montage sequences and the background score.

More than anything else, it is Karthik Subburaj's screenplay and direction which keeps this Jigarthanda taste good till the end. You are belted with thrills, comedy, drama and twists in what just might be the right proportions. Jigarthanda is one of those films made with a divergent notion. It is a story of passion and grit, coupled with betrayal and relationships. After long, a movie about making a movie will become a hit movie.

Daringly delicious.

3.5 / 5

Kick (Hindi)

First things first, this is a Salman Khan film. If you are looking for any sorts of sense, logic or intelligence, I request you to close the window and get back to your work right away.

If you agree with the above point and decide to read further, here we go.  Kick is a remake of the Telugu film of the same name. While the original version starred Ravi Teja in the lead, the remake here has Bhai, Jacqueline Fernandes, Randeep Hooda and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The team has decided to keep the basic storyline of the original intact, and then spin a web around it with snippets from the original and ideas from a new writing team, which amusingly involves Chetan Bhagat. So what does this new team do? Well nothing much. They pluck a few good scenes from the first half and pull the elastic on what is left. They add more glam to the script, injecting it wherever possible. The hero is Salman Khan, give him the attention he deserves (heroism). Make the song and chase sequences as grand as possible, burn the producers pockets. Voila! We have a Hollywoodized version of a film which was originally made with 10 crores. Following that, we have the usual Bollywood rituals of pulling in a mammoth technical team, the likes of Ayananka Bose on the camera and RS.Bhagat for the cuts. We even have three music directors, Julius Packiam's background score and Resul Pookutty's sound design.

Kick takes a long time to get on its heels. The first half an hour of the film is laborious, as few in the audience begin to squirm in their seats. The film shifts gears when Randeep's story takes centre stage,  the genre of the film rolling from rom-com to action. The second half is the better of the two where we have a weird but unique performance from Nawazuddin Siddiqui who comes to the rescue. The cat and mouse game between Sallu, Randeep and Nawazuddin is enjoyable, and one does feel that the Warsaw portions are the best parts of the film. The post interval scenes are exciting, thanks to some impressive chase sequences which are shot on a big scale, in common parlance - Hollywood level. This leads to a humdrum climax, where the film goes bonkers in search of an alternate ending.

Salman Khan does just what is expected of him. He jumps, flies, dances, zooms and whoops past you with a glee. Kick is a party for his fans, and does come somewhat close to what would be a 'brilliant' film for them. Jacqueline is adequate, and steps into the shoes of a perfect Bollywood glam doll, albeit her character being chiseled with a blonde in mind. Randeep Hooda and Nawazuddin are the best you can take away from Kick, for they do slot in as apt antagonists. The rest of the cast pass muster, and that's about it.

The production house has gone leaps and bounds on the technical side to provide a glossy feel to the film. Be it the cinematography, the art direction or the stunts, the end result is flawless. Himesh Reshammiya is truly getting back on track with his genial tunes which would have been a fest if not for the bad placements. Julius Packiam's BGM thrives on a single tune on different terrains.

Cutting it short, Kick is fun on Bhai standards. Fans will definitely love it, the rest can give it a watch having nothing else to do. Nothing is gonna stop the film from raking in 200+ crores at the Box Office and give the haters something to whine about. After all, as Bhai himself says - 'Mere baarein mein itna matt sochna. Dil mein aata hoon, samajh mein nahin' ( Dont think too much about me. I can be loved, but not understood. )

Bhaitastic entertainer.

2 / 5

KPMP (Music)

Directed by newbie Raj Zacharias, Kadavul Paadhi Mirugam Paadhi is a relatively small film, the most familiar face being Pooja Umashankar. However, the team has pulled up a trump card by making Malayalam composer Rahul Raj compose the tunes for the film. How are the songs? Read on.

Naan Indru Naan Dhaana : Singer - Sooraj Santhosh, Lyrics - Viveka 

In an astonishing start to the album, we have Rahul Raj pulling off a coup with the first song itself. Naan Indru Naan Dhaana is one of the most addictive tunes at this point of the year, well aided by Sooraj Santhosh on the vocals. The song which begins like a Harris Jayaraj composition, quickly snaps to a Yuvan-ish beat. The dark horse of recent Tamil music.

Enadhu Ulagil : Singer - Gayathri Suresh, Lyrics - Yugabharathi 

Though this track has pedestrian vocals by Gayathri, it is the interludes which pop in at the high points that make this song a listenable one.

Meenamma Meenamma : Singer - Suchitra Karthik, Lyrics - Karuna Karan

Suchi is back to what she does best, kuthu music. The build up to the Meenamma verse is the best part of the song, which is otherwise a mainstream kuthu number.

Beast Rock : Singers - Arjun Sasi, Rahul Raj, Lyrics - Arjun Sasi 

Long time since we've had a good rock bit in Tamil, and this title track helps in that angle. Rahul Raj keeps the tempo going throughout, gelling in the rap lines pretty well.    

The Dark Theme : Singers - Rahul Raj, Anna Katherina

Hell bent on the keyboard and the guitar, the keystone to this number is Anna Katherina's fiery vocals which do draw in some chills.

Though Kadavul Paadhi Mirugam Paadhi isn't a commendable debut of sorts, it proves that Rahul Raj can recreate his Mallu magic in Tamil too. Much of it is evident from the first track, which has the potential to become a chartbuster with good marketing. 

Pick : Naan Indru Naan Dhaana

A harmless album, led by the Sooraj Santhosh number.

3 / 5

Vaaimai (Music)

Vaaimai is an upcoming courtroom drama directed by A.Senthil Kumar. Starring an array of renowned actors headed by Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, it has music by debutant Auggath. Let's get to the music review straight away.

All lyrics by Vairamuthu.

Vaaimeyey Vellum : Singer - Vijay Prakash 

Auggath begins the album with a bang. Vaaimeyey Vellum is probably one of the best inspirational tracks we've heard in a long time. The strong vocals of Vijay Prakash, the highly impressive beat along with Vairamuthu's intense verses make this one a true winner. The last 30 seconds are goosebumping to say the least.

Kanpadum Un Mugam : Singer - Alka Yagnik 

Alka Yagnik's northie vocals is the lynchpin for this pathos track, which manages to climb onto you gradually. The tune is maintained light throughout the song, without letting the music take the rendition over.

Matta : Singers - Blaaze and Vijay Prakash

Though this track has unique orchestrations, it is the disarranged vocals which do not hold it together. Blaaze's rap bits are the best parts of the song.

Boomiye Saamiye : Singer - Sadhana Sargam

Another gloomy song in the album. Sadhana Sargam is ostensibly the saving grace here.

Ae Naadu : Singer - SP. Balasubramaniam 

When SPB and Vairamuthu come together, the end result ought to be a good one. And Ae Naadu comes off as a surprise with its superb tune which complements both the lyrics and the vocals. The use of drums and percussions gel well, making it completely enjoyable package. Ends the album on a high!

Newbie Auggath has certainly step up in style. Be it the slow tracks or the inspirational ones, every song is different in its own way. Though Vaaimai is an album completely devoid of romantic numbers, it provides enough area for innovation through slow and fast tracks. Auggath seems to have grabbed the opportunity with both hands, the end result is a satisfying album. 

Pick : Vaaimeyey Vellum

Authentic debut from Auggath.

3 / 5

Anjaan (Music)

Anjaan brings back the exciting combo of Lingusamy and Yuvan Shankar who gave us the superb Paiyaa. This time for the elder brother, fans of Yuvan have been waiting for a flawless album since long. Without wasting any more time, let's get to the songs right away.

Bang Bang Bang : Singer : Ranjith, Lyrics : Karky 

An absolutely rocking start to the album, incidentally taken over by the use of rock guitars. The song gets onto you in a jiffy, Ranjith's voice is an apt choice. The Arabian interlude is a scream, as this song's lyrics stresses on glorifying Raju Bhai and his activities. The backgrounds have been planned with a lot of thought deviated to the theme of the film. With stylish visuals, this sure will be a treat onscreen.  

Oru Kan Jaadai : Singers : Benny Dayal, Shweta Pandit, Lyrics : Viveka 

Yuvan picks up the energetic vocals of Benny Dayal for this one, and it pays off big time. A light rock song with intuited  drum orchestrations, Oru Kan Jaadai is a track where the vocals and music complement each other very well. Viveka's words cause no harm to the song, making a foot tapping track on the whole.

Ek Do Theen Chaar : Singers : Suriya, Andrea Jeremiah, Lyrics : Na.Muthukumar

The most expected track in the album is here, paving way to Suriya himself on the mic. Doubtlessly a party at the big screens, this track which has been filmed colorfully is a celebration. Though Suriya's voice doesn't have the vibe of a mainstream singer, it has enough to fit into the mood of the song. The instrumentation is mainly kuthu-based with a tune that sounds northern.

Kaadhal Aasai : Singer : Yuvan Shankar Raja, Sooraj Santhosh, Lyrics : Kabilan 

The long wait for a slow and addictive number has ended. Yuvan keeps it simple with the use of instruments such as light chings, tabla and only gets innovative for the interludes. The rendition is near perfect, and this song does remind us of his earlier hit solos such as Yedho Onnu ( Paiyaa ) and Pogadhe ( Deepavali ). Such a beautiful number, with lyrics which are as good as the vocals.

Siripu En : Singer : MM.Manasi, Lyrics : Viveka

A pedestrian item number from Yuvan. Though we have Manasi with her suave rendering, this song stays secondary compared to the caliber of music enjoyed throughout the album so far. The instrumentations are adequate, thereby ending the album on a par state.

Composing music for a big star film is no easy job, and Yuvan is undoubtedly a king pick if you want a stellar album for your movie. The coveted Lingusamy-Yuvan combo is back, bringing out an album which takes the centre stage on all mediums. Tea stalls, radio stations and iPods will blaze away with these songs, as the true talent in the composer has come out once again. Anjaan is an album replete with hit numbers, we have a winner here! 

Pick : Kadhal Aasai

Pure chartbuster material.

3 / 5

VIP

Most of us have come across an event in our life which has shown us right path, giving us an opportunity to prove to the world who we really are. Known by the term 'reality check' such incidents help us redefine ourselves, thereby introducing to the greener side of life. Dhanush's 25th film, Velai Illa Pattadhaari, deals with the same terms, along with a huge worry that we see almost everyday in our lives - unemployment. Directed by Velraj, who is a cinematographer by profession, we have Amala Paul, Samudhrakani, Saranya Ponvannan, Vivek and Surabhi in the cast. Music is by the hot and happening Anirudh Ravichander. Will VIP revamp the dry Kollywood Box Office? Read on.

VIP is the story of how Raghuvaran (Dhanush), an unemployed graduate, checks his boxes and puts himself on the right track. Right from the start, VIP walks on with unemployment as its main theme. Though the attention is zeroed on the main character Raghuvaran (Dhanush), the movie never fails to keep reminding us of the theme, unemployment. Even the jokes in the first half revolve around this. The film moves with its enjoyable moments sowed here and there, but the final result together is only half as engaging. With the sentimental breakdown at the interval, the movie does make a king's move, but sadly we are presented with a second half which is filled with clichés and balloon punches when its gets on to the much hyped 'mass' stage. In VIP, the first half reminds us of Polladhavan and Yaaradi Nee Mohini, while the second has traces of Thiruvilaiyadal Aarambam.

Coming to the casting, and we cannot escape without lauding this man. Dhanush, once again the ace actor proves why he is a master of cinematic emotions, bringing out stupendous reactions with complete ease. In the song visuals especially, the actor juggles between happy and sad expressions, making it an absolute delight to watch. Ostensibly the saving grace of the film, VIP would have been a bummer if not for this guy. Amala Paul looks a bit bloated up, and her makeup which looked oily doesn't help her appearances either. Dhanush's family in the movie consists of two veteran artists and a debutant, who fit the bills to perfection, Saranya Ponvannan and Samudhrakani are superb picks by Dhanush for their respective roles. You will have to wait for the second half to watch Vivek's comedy and Surabhi's beaut, but their moments are truly assets to a film going down the lane. Being a mass entertainer, VIP needed a tough villain. Unfortunately, the villain here is stiff and ends up being a complete dummy.

Technically, VIP just passes muster. Cinematography is middling except for the song sequences, and there is nothing much to say about the editing too. Yet, we have relief in the form of the stunts, which are well planned, notably the first stunt sequence.

Music by Anirudh is superb, and one can say that he has done a fair job in the re-recording too. VIP will remain to be one of his best, musically. The songs somehow create the excitement for the front benchers.

Velraj as a director has been overparticular to bring out a convincing mass entertainer, losing track in the process. Though he must be appreciated for his sharp dialogues which are well etched with facts and figures, the treatment of the script isn't mature, things unfold onscreen just as how you have them worked out in your head. VIP ends up fetching all essentials of an entertainer, just that it fails to have them in the right proportions. It will be a party for Dhanush's fanbase, but not everyone can dance there. Right? 

Customary entertainer which sparkles here and there but misses out on the final connect.

2.5 / 5

Thirudan Police (Music)

Yuvan Shankar Raja returns to composing tunes with his next album, Thirudan Police. Starring Attakathi Dinesh and Aishwarya in the lead, Thirudan Police is directed by Caarthick Raju. The composer's fans are waiting for an album which they can call a comeback, does Yuvan manage to provide that here?

All lyrics by Na.Muthukumar.

Ennodu Vaa : Singers - Sathyan, Senthildas, Priyadarshini

Typical kuthu start from Yuvan. Much like his earlier compositions, Yuvan keeps the kuthu beat at the backhand, allowing it to take over only at the high point. The rendition is pretty normal, as well as the lyrics by Na.Muthukumar.

Moodipanikkul : Singers - Naresh Iyer, Roshini 

Originally composed for Aaranya Kaandam, this digitalized track is a treat. Yuvan has seriously gone for something different here, both on the musical and vocal mediums. The interludes are on another level, as this track turns out to be a slow climber.

Pesadhe : Singers - Hariharasudhan, AV Pooja

In Pesadhe, the composer gets into the mood of a vintage Ilayaraja number in terms of the vocal placements. The music is electronic, as it takes centre stage in the interludes. Pooja's vocals are a beaut, adding a rich flavor and feel to the number.

Deivam Enbadhenna : Singer - Haricharan

After Dheivangal Ellam in Kedi Billa Killadi Ranga, Thirudan Police is the next film for a moving track on a father's love. Haricharan's vocals are impressive as they were in the former, as Na.Muthukumar's lyrics make a stinging impact here. Wonderful is the word for this soul-filled melody.

Deivam Enbadhenna Version 2 : Singer - SP. Charan

The alternative version of the previous track, is a touch softer on the whole. SP.Charan's renditions add a different feel to the song, making a good listen.

Yuvan has once again kept it simple here, except for the second track which is arguably innovative. Though Thirudan Police isn't a comeback of sorts for the composer, it is not a damp squib like what he's been presenting off late. Yuvan needs to hit back soon with a kickass album, something which sets the speakers on fire. We're waiting, man.  

Pick : Pesadhey

The wait for Yuvan\'s comeback album will continue.

2.5 / 5

Arima Nambi

Action thrillers are a genre most loved by Tamil audience these days. Films which manage to couple a strong baseline along with good amounts of brain and brawn have always worked at the box office. Arima Nambi is one such thriller, coming from the house of Kalaipuli Dhanu who churned out a large number of blockbusters including Vijay's biggie, Thuppakki. Directed by Anand Shankar, who was a former assistant to AR.Murugadoss, Arima Nambi has Vikram Prabhu and Priya Anand in the main starcast. Music is by Drums Sivamani, who makes his debut here.

Arima Nambi kicks off at Hard Rock Cafe where Vikram Prabhu falls in the eyes of Priya Anand. The song Yaaro Yaar Aval comes in, as the lead pair get to know each other. After their first date, Vikram Prabhu visits Priya Anand's house, where she is mysteriously kidnapped by a couple of goons. When Vikram Prabhu explains the situation to the police, evidences reveal that nothing ever happened. What follows is a series of events which unveil the mystery behind the kidnap and an even bigger issue which has been canned.

Debutant Anand Shankar manages to keep the audience glued to their seats for most parts of the film, especially in the first half where the screenplay moves at a breakneck. The director has ensured that the viewer does not lose his attention thanks to cliché less writing. He successfully stitches the comic moments at the start along with some really thrill-filled scenes that you will root for. Coming to the second half, the movie does take a stroll but comes back well towards the end with the help of the twists and a well-etched climax. Anand Shankar must also be appreciated for the use of updated gadgets and technology in his film, using them in the right amounts wherever required.

Vikram Prabhu is fabulous in his role as a power packed hero, as he must be lauded for his script selection which has struck the roof here. His comfort is evident in the action scenes and the chase sequences, and this is a stellar performance from his side. Priya Anand as the modern damsel is chic and trendy with her colorful costumes, cute smile and the foreign accent. The supporting cast including Arjunan as the friend and Yog Japee as the firm cop are near perfect, as the team has really pulled off a coup with the casting. One must not forget MS.Baskar in a short but superb role.

Technically too, Arima Nambi is no less. RD.Rajasekhar's camera gels into the mood of the film, the cinematographer has undoubtedly showcased pure talent in the chase scenes. Cuts by Bhuvan Srinivasan could have been a touch crisper in the second half, as the movie tends to take some time to build up to the climax. Stunts deserve a special mention, the street chase in the second half is truly riveting to watch.

Music is a huge blip to the film, as none of the songs lead to a positive response. BGM though, is a saving grace, due to a well panned sound design.

On the whole, Arima Nambi is a taut thriller which keeps you guessing till the very end.  Another film which will prove that content is the king to keep the cash registers ringing. 

Go grab your tickets, it\'s an edge-of-the-seat ride.

3.5 / 5

Nambiyaar (Music)

Vijay Antony has now become a hero, who is quickly establishing himself onto the next league. Meanwhile, he has somehow managed to tip off some of his time to get back to his roots and compose some music for Srikanth’s next, Nambiyaar. With Sunaina essaying the female lead, Nambiyaar has Santhanam for comic relief. Let’s jump into the music review, right away.

Aara Amara : Singer – Santhanam

A drunkard’s jingle crooned by the comedian himself, this track tries too hard to be catchy. As a result, we are presented with a song which is takes irritation to the next level. The second version, although a touch decent, is no better.

Idhuvarai Yaarum : Singers – Rahul Nambiar, Chinmayi

An electronic track with a relatively good pair-up goes out of rhythm and ends up being another downer. The rap bits don’t help either, the only saving grace being Chinmayi’s vocals.

Kaima Kaisa : Singer – Naresh Iyer

This track, which has more of a tech-based Punjabi dhol to it is a hurried one which taps the musings to money and celebrations. No Vijay Antony, no!

Thoongum Penne : Singer – Srinivas

Vijay Antony sticks to the basics for this song, which has a fairly simple tune and fine lyrics which take it a step above the other songs which are wildly crass. Neat rendition too.

Saroja Devi Ennai Paar : Singer – Aalaap Raju

Here is a joke. Vijay Antony takes the tune of the previous song, replaces the singer with Aalaap Raju to lyrics which are crooked compared to the former. Dismal!

If acting is working out for Vijay Antony, he better stick to that. Nambiyaar is an abominable album, and there is nothing good to take from it. The kiss of death beckons Srikanth, for he has been bestowed with a flaky album from a reasonably bankable composer. Nine times out of ten, the songs aren’t going to help the movie in any way.  

Pick : Thoongum Penne

Dear Vijay Antony, better get back or go back.

1 / 5

ATSVS (Music)

Aindham Thalaimurai Sidhdha Vaidhiya Sigamani (ATSVS) is Barath's 25th film in his long career. Directed by LG Ravichandar, it stars Barath and Nandita alongside a huge supporting starcast in the likes of Karunakaran, Manobala, Thambi Ramaih and many others. Music is by Simon who caught some attention with his debut album, 555. How does this one go?

Aindhaam Thalaimurai Sidha Vaidhiya Sigamani - Madurai Chinnaponnu, Simon

Sung by Chinnaponnu and the music composer himself, this 2 minute track is a ridiculously gibberish start to the album. What a bummer.

Onnuna Rendu - Vijay Antony, Sunidhi Chauhan

Although this track has a catchy tune on the guitars and vocals by the notable Vijay Antony and Sunidhi Chauhan, the loud and jarring instrumentals take away all the spice from the song.  Vijay Antony might be the only good aspect of the number.

En Anbe - Vijay Prakash, Ramya NSK

Melodies are what Simon impressed us with in his debut album, and here comes the melody of this album. A pedestrian tune without much innovation, this track which grabs your attention at first falters halfway.

Elarai - Gaana Bala, Yabama

Gaana Bala is here. A Caribbean kuthu track, this is one track for the masses. Though the Tamil lyrics do gain some brownie points, the meaningless English lyrics do make the track fall flat. Nothing going right in this album so far.

Kandaangi Selai - Hariharasudhan

Coming to the final track in the album, and Simon seems to have saved his best for last. The saving grace out of all the songs, Kandaangi Selai works thanks to the lovely rendition from Hariharasudhan.

After an impressive debut in 555, Simon's commercial numbers do not manage to create the much needed excitement for this film which is already low key. Except for Kandaangi Selai, none of the songs pass muster, resulting in a crashing album. Dear Barath, with all due respect, why this film? 

Pick : Kandaangi Selai

Bad is an understatement.

1 / 5