Poo Movie Review

The innate determination of women has been written about extensively across many cultures…. 'Hell hath no fury like that of a woman's scorn' is one of them. 'Poo' also weaves a tale of a woman with tremendous determination….caught up with the fragrance of love in all its innocence and benevolence.

Advertisement : seo india

A cinematic adaptation of Tamilchelvan's short story 'Veyyilodu Poi', 'Poo' successfully carries over the literary flavor to celluloid. Hats off to director Sasi for the transition! However, the real star of the film has been actress Parvathy who has debuted in Tamil filmdom with 'Poo'. Having literally lived the character of Mari that she has played, the actress leaves a mighty stamp in the hearts of audiences with a performance that will be remembered for years to come.

'Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs' wrote Shakespeare. When a woman is in love the smoke intensifies so much that it engulfs her very self to an extent that it dictates every move of hers …. 'Poo' stands testimony to these thoughts….and yet there is something about 'Poo' that is so very pristine….true love above all else….

A slice of rural Tamilnadu comes alive right from the onset. The film follows the life of Mari, a rural girl with an incredible affinity to her cousin (Thangarasu). Both, as children share a world that is filled with laughter, pranks and even embarrassing moments. But as time the weary traveler plods on, the golden gates of childhood close behind them forever. Even as many a cherished moment fades into distant memory the affinity that has blossomed into love stays true.

Thangarasu is off to Chennai to pursue a course in Mechanical Engineering and Mari finds herself working in a cracker factory chirping away all the time about the man-of-her-life to her dear friend and colleague.

Scores of questions are raised as the film unfolds. Would an engineer want to marry a simpleton like Mari? Is Mari's love such an overdose that it'll destroy even her? etc…. Societal pattern plays a huge part all through the film.

Thangarasu's father, a hard working man uses his bullock cart to transport wares and is extremely happy to be referred to as 'Pennakaarar' (courtesy, he owns a pen and knows how to write too….). The man is ecstatic at the fact that his son would soon be an engineer earning huge sums of money. Thangarasu becomes the toast of the village thanks to his studies.

Would Mari's desire, societal norms and wavelength of thoughts converge? The crux of the film deals with all this.

All relationships in the film have been made with an abundance of realism and that is a major strength. Music by debutant S. S. Kumaran is refreshing and one gets the feeling he would be a musician to watch out for. The cinematography has been apt and one gets the feeling of being scorched by the hot sun through the lens of Sakthi Saravanan.

Kudos to Srikanth for having accepted to play the character of Thangarasu. Though he knew very well that Parvathy would be the actually star of the film and not him, he has ventured to be part of this good story. Not many heroes in Tamil filmdom would do that. If Parvathy can back this performance in her forthcoming films one can jump onto the roof and shout - a star is born.

On the whole the film is such a refreshing change from the regular hullabaloo of so-called commercial masala entertainment. 'Poo' would definitely join the ranks of 'Kadhal', 'Azhagi', 'Subramaniapuram' and the like which went on to rake in big money.

Varanam Aayiram - Life Story of Father and Son

The film designed as a tribute to Gautham Vasudev Menon's father comes across as emotions spelt out in a reserved manner and thereby proves to be a tame affair. One can understand the director's angst at losing a parent, and trying to make a film about the loss, but then the man's (father) enigma never takes center stage throughout the film. Probably the biggest drawback of the film.

Advertisement : Cheap Search Engine Optimization - seo india

The narration of the film has been designed to follow a 'classic approach'. Unfortunately, all the ingredients that go into the making of a classic are missing thereby making the screenplay stagnate at times to irritable proportions. All films that have been successful in being called classics portray enduring human emotions that can be related with instantaneously. Gautham has most definitely missed the plot with 'Varanam Aayiram' giving more emphasis to incidents rather than connecting them well. The story follows the lead characters (the protagonist and his father) through decades. Much effort has been taken to bring out authenticity to the 'period' effect which is praiseworthy.

The story starts off with a senior citizen Krishna (Suriya) getting his hair trimmed in a saloon only to die after reaching home. The news is conveyed to his son, Major Suriya (Suriya) who is part of a rescue mission. With gritty determination, the young man declares he wants to go ahead with the mission. But the son in him overwhelms the Major that he is and events of his life unfold as flashes in his mind.

What a fantastic dad he had had! The story is narrated through montage sequences – the time his father had met his mother in college (as told to him by his mother) and the innovative way he had made known his love for her – his birth and the way he had always looked up to his dad as a real hero – his sister's birth and the happy little family that they were – his peek at adolescence – his misadventures and the moment he was engulfed by the electric sensation of love etc.

Suriya's adolescent days come across as a breath of fresh air. The antiques he indulges in once he sees Megna (Sameera Reddy) on a night train and his train of thought that goes on in his mind to woo her, gets across to the audience very well.

After the interesting introduction, the determined Suriya goes to her house to see her. Megna is surprised but then is not convinced that his love for her is true. She reveals her plans to study in America and her preparations to leave in a week's time.

The happy-go-lucky Suriya does some business and using the gift of being a good guitarist makes money. And then he is off to America, not for a career, not for studies but to win his girl's heart and marry her. They do meet in America and the interesting character that he is wins Megna's heart. An unfortunate incident happens and Megna dies.

A reckless Suriya then starts smoking, drinking and becomes a horrible drug addict. His parents take care of him through these torrid times. His parents even want him to go away somewhere to find himself and come back as the person that he really is.

Suriya walks the streets of Kashmir and Delhi and even indulges in daring endeavors like rescuing a kidnapped child. Then the military bug bites him and he joins the armed forces. It is about this time that the director has made maximum usage of his good looks and the famous six-pack ab. After six years in the armed forces, he becomes a major and also has loving thoughts of a girl (Priya played by Divya Spandana) he had known for a long time but had really not given any kind of attention to. Does time wither away the association they had had?

The flashes of reminiscence stops and reality dawns….he is part of the rescue mission now, fighting terrorists….

The earthly presence of his father might have gone away forever….but will always have a home in his heart….probably thoughts that Gautham Vasudev Menon has….

Suriya the actor rocks throughout. The variety of emotions he has portrayed is very good and a strong mention has to be made about his good looks and charm. He looks unbelievably like a person in his early twenties in some sequences that require him to be so. Something very few actors can really do.

Harris Jayaraj has rendered a beautiful set of songs with this film. The Background score is good in patches and compliments the brilliant cinematography by Rathnavelu. The cinematographer needs special mention for a refreshing tone which he has infused especially in the youthful sequences.

Sameera Reddy has been casual and fits the role aptly. Simran has garnered all her experience and does justice. Divya Spandana with her girl-next-door looks performs a role that lightens up a depressed protagonist with good effect.

One gets the feeling Gautham could have used all of Suriya's efforts with a better narration AND with all-round emotions to connect all the incidents in the script which would have made it more interesting.

Satyam - Audio Review

Satyam - Yet another stunner from Harris Jayaraj!

Harris Jayaraj is proving to be a rare gem in Tamil Cinema. He speaks less and his songs do the rest. Right from his first film 'Minnale' till 'Sathyam', Harris has never compromised on quality and has successfully belted out chartbusters one after another.

'Sathyam', the 25th film from his stable, is indeed very special. It has right mix of hip-hop, melody and kuthu songs. He has experimented with new sounds and new voices. A shrewd thinker, Harris has intelligently used the voices of Premji Gangaiamaran and Rahul Nambiyar.

The additional rhythm and the Chinese interludes in a couple of songs display his mastery in Tamil film music.

‘Chellame Chellamae’ (Balaram, Bombay Jayashree, Sunitha Sarathy)

This is a song to watch out for in the album. A typical Harris number, 'Chellamae Chellamae' has Harris' favorite singer Bombay Jayashree at her best. A melodious number, the song has a lot of sheen thanks to Jayashree's classical touch. Naveen joins the party later and excels at what he does best. A soothing melody, which has become a rarity these days, 'Chellamae' is a song that's like a fresh evening breeze on a sunny day. Chinese preludes and interludes work well with this song.

Ennanbe (Sadhana Sargam, Beney Deyal)

Seemingly an extension of the 'Chellamae' song, this number has catchy lyrics that dwells a lot on romance. Harris comes up with new sounds that stick to heart immediately. Sadhana Sargam is the perfect choice to render the song as she has given her heart and soul to the number, which is appealing.

Paal Pappali (Naveen, Mahathi)

A kuthu number from Harris is a rarity. However, having proved his mastery in coming up with melody and western acoustics, Harris has got an opportunity to show his skills at a pacy kuthu number. Hats off to him as he manages to render a song that is mind-boggling. Rahul Nambiyar is a bundle of energy and his style is with a lot of enthusiasm.

Aaradi Kaatre (Hariharan)

Harris has proved once again with ease his mettle in coming up with songs on catchy instrumentation using only drums and guitars. Hariharan's melodious voice coupled with Harris's mastery on creating soft numbers provides a fresh feel. This is a song that will woo music-buffs big time.

Ada Gada Gada (Premji Gangaiamaran)

Premji Gangaiamaran has proved his mettle as an actor. Born in a family of musicians, Premji Gangaiamaran has proved that he is an equally good singer. This is a trendy number with hip-hop music and rap interludes and is sure to become the anthem among youngsters. Premji's vocals blend well with the music. With catchy lyrics and racy beats, Harris Jayaraj oozes with energy in this song.

'Sathyam' comes across as a catchy album and Harris has given his heart out to package it with the right mix of songs. With good vocals and perfect rhythms, 'Sathyam' songs would be remembered by music-lovers for a long time to come.

'Sathyam' is one more jewel in Harris's crown.

Subramaniapuram - Realism in all its splendor

Can a movie be made in an interesting and crisp format in spite of a boasting of a huge star cast?

Director Sasikumar, who had his tutelage under Bala and Ameer, has proved that a quality entertainer can be made with less-known faces provided the movie has interesting storyline with the right amount of twists.

Designed in a retro classic style, Sasikumar portrays Madurai in a different color and with a new perspective. As the title suggests, the entire movie is set in Subramaniapuram, a hamlet in Madurai.The story, set in the 80s, takes place in Madurai Subramaniapuram, a suburb of the city. Movies like Palaivana Cholai dwelt around four friends. Perhaps Sasikumar impressed by such classics, has made an attempt of chronicling the life of a group of friends.

They are fun-loving and carefree, who spend most of their time together. Jai, Kanja Karuppu and Sasikumar (the director himself), are typical youths, who do not miss an opportunity to fight when they come across a brawl on the streets. Often arrested, they come out of jail with the help of a neighbor, played by Samudhirakani. The neighbor's elder brother happens to be a former Councilor.

The irony is that Jai falls in love with the Councilor's daughter. When the councilor is ditched by a member of an opposite gang, the trio step in and bump off the man. Unfortunately Samudhirakani doesn't help them this time and the three are remanded for murder. However, they manage to come out themselves.

They then vow to settle scores with Samudhirakani and the Councilor. The revenge plot has enough twists and turns.A movie is loaded with fun and suspense all through and is pleasant to watch coming across as a whiff of fresh air amidst commercial clichés. Sasikumar and Jai impress. Their body language and diction of the Madurai Tamil are noteworthy.

Due credit should be given to music composer James Vasanthan, a television anchor-turned-music director. He has reminded everyone of Ilayaraja during his heydays, James Vasanthan's background score is scintillating.Sasikumar is a welcome addition to the list of talented directors taking centre stage in Tamil cinema in recent days.

’Subramaniapuram’ is a must-watch movie for those who love realism in Tamil Cinema.

Kuselan - Movie Review

How many times have you walked out of a theatre emotionally choked up after watching a Rajinikanth film? How many times have you seen Rajinikanth not uttering a punch dialogue in his films? How many times have you not seen Rajinikanth flexing his muscles and bashing the baddies in his movie?

Watch ‘Kuselan’, where one can find a completely different Rajinikanth – the real Rajinikanth, the human being. The movie is perhaps an answer to his critics who have been criticizing the actor for doing routine 'commercial masalas'. Thanks to P Vasu, Rajinikanth reinvents himself bringing out the actor within him through this film. One thing is very clear. He has not acted to commercial compulsions.

The movie throws light on the real Rajinikanth, who has been quite a puzzle with millions of his fans. And the star himself answers questions that have been plaguing the minds of millions of his fans. Want to know the answers to why Rajini has not entered politics? Why the superstar often goes to the Himalayas? Why the actor still prefers to work in run-of-the-mill stuff?

‘Kuselan’ has got all the answers. With Rajinikanth by his side, P Vasu has come out with a message that is quite though provoking. The usual adage is 'Matha Pitha Guru Deivam'. With ‘Kuselan’ the adage gets an addition - 'Matha Pitha Guru Nanban Deivam'.

He plays the 'Super Star' himself and does not at any time impose himself on screen. Watching Rajinikanth play the role with consummate ease is like watching Sachin Tendulkar on song at the middle of the crease. It's like listening to Beethoven's symphony sitting under the moonlight. Though the story doesn't revolve around Rajinikanth, he manages to leave his indelible presence on screen. Especially towards the climax, an emotional Rajinikanth identifies his friend recalling their good old innocent days. These are sequences that evoke tears to our eyes bring the human side of each of us to the forefront.

It is a tough task for an actor like Pasupathy to carry the entire burden on his shoulders acting alongside a scene stealer like Rajinikanth. As a poor barber, fighting for survival, he evokes all the sympathy. Seemingly an extension of his role in ‘Veyyil’, Pasupathy passes out with flying colors. Hats off to him!

Meena as his caring wife is more of a realistic portrayal. She understands the emotional struggles of her husband and gives him the much needed solace and comfort. She sure manages to get under the skin of her character and has done an extremely good job.

Nayanthara plays herself in the film and executes the job entrusted to her quite well. She plays a heroine in films, who shoots for a movie alongside Rajinikanth. She fulfills the glamour quotient and serves the purpose indeed well. Vadivelu's comedy compliments the script well. His trick to get an audition with Rajinikanth, who is shooting in the village brings down the roof with laughter.

The movie boasts of a huge star cast including Livingston, M S Baskar, Sona, Geetha, Fathima Babu, Brahmanandham, Chinni Jayanth. All have significant parts to play in the film.

Prabhu plays a cameo while a host of stars including Sneha, Soundarya Rajinikanth, Suriya among others appear for the ‘Cinema Cinema’ song.

Kuselan is about two childhood friends, with one becoming the Numero Uno in the film industry, while the other lands up as a barber in a hamlet.

Balakrishnan alias Bala (Pasupathy) is a poor barber in a village. He leads a happy life with his wife Sreedevi (Meena) and his children, until a film crew lands in their village to shoot for a movie. Coming to know that Super Star Ashok Kumar (Rajinikanth) has come for shooting in the village, and also with the understanding that he is Bala's childhood friend, villagers flock to Bala's house with favors. A man with tremendous self dignity, Bala fears to meet Ashok Kumar thinking that he may not identify him. But, when the two meet after a long gap, the emotional drama between the pals, sets up an emotional 20-minute climax.

Complimenting Vasu's hard work are Arvindh Krishna's excellent cinematography and the brilliant musical score by G V Prakash Kumar. The catchy numbers ‘Om zarerare’ and ‘Cinema Cinema’ have especially been captured in an attractive manner by Aravindh Krishna. The background score towards the climax sets up the momentum.

Hats off to director P Vasu! The film-maker, who knows the knack of remaking a Malayalam hit in Tamil, has rendered a movie that has the right packaging of emotions. He has intelligently packaged the movie with commercial elements that a hardcore Rajinikanth fan would love without spoiling the crux.

Produced by Pushpa Kandaswamy and Vijayakumar, ‘Kuselan’ is a movie that would go down well with Rajinikanth fans and this is a great opportunity to see the real side of this spectacular actor though on celluloid.

'Kuselan' gets a clean 'U'

Only five days are left for d-day. Come 1st August, Rajinikanth's 'Kuselan' will storm theatres across the globe.The good news for Rajini fans is that officials of the Regional Censor Board in Chennai who viewed 'Kuselan' on Saturday gave a clean 'U' certificate to the film sans any cuts.

With just three days left for the release, those who had a chance to see the film praised it as a decent family entertainer with a magnificent message.

Set for a worldwide release by Pyramid Saimira, 'Kuselan' is opening in a record number of theatres all over the world. The film is simultaneously being released in the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh as 'Kathanayakudu'.

With Pasupathy and Jagapathi Babu acting in the role of Rajini's friend in Tamil and Telugu respectively, 'Kuselan' is based on Malayalam cult hit 'Kadha Parayumbol'.irected by P Vasu, the Tamil version has Nayantara, Meena, Prabhu, Vadivelu and Vijayakumar in pivotal characters.

Kuselan audio to be launched today

Producers Kavithalayaa and Seven Arts Films and Big Music the audio company are going to have a very big audio launch of Rajnikanth's Kuselan. The function would take place at a five-star hotel in Chennai on Monday (June 30) evening.

The entire star cast of the film- Rajnikanth, Nayanthara, Meena, Pasupathi and Vadivel are expected to attend the function, along with P.Vasu the director and other technicians. The film's music director G.V Prakash Kumar will be honoured as his uncle the legend A.R Rahman, will be the chief guest of the evening.

Kuselan audio has been grabbed by Big Music, after a bidding war. The grapevine has it that the price paid is a whopping Rs 2.25 crore, the highest ever price paid for an audio in Tamil.

Big Music is opening the audio sales with a record 2 lakhs CD's and Cassettes, priced at Rs 99 and 45 respectively. They have already got an order for 1.15 units from dealers across the world.

The music downloads too have been snapped by UTV, for a never before price. The songs from the film will also be premiered simultaneously across all the FM stations in Tamilnadu and other Tamil stations across the world on Tuesday morning.

There are five songs in the film. "Cinema, Cinema…" written by Vaali and sung by Shankar Mahadevan and chorus is Rajini's introduction song in the film. The song is said to have been picturised to celebrate 75 years of south Indian cinema, with more than a dozen Kollywood stars taking part in it.

The other major highlight is the Daler Mehndi song along with Chitra and Sadhana Sargam, "Om Zaarare…" written by Vaali. It is a seven – minute song where Rajini and Nayanthara appear as Egyptian King and Queen (for a film within a film), and shot lavishly on a studio set done by Thotta Tharani. It has all the potential to be a chartbuster.

If the audio of the film clicks, G.V Prakash the prince in waiting will be anointed as the King of Kollywood. Prakash is in a position to piggy back ride on Rajinikanth's popularity across the globe.