Cast: Pasupathi, Aadhi, Dhanshika and Archana Kavi
Director: Vasanthabalan
Ratings: 3/5
It stands strong and tall...
When Vasanthabalan, after a stunning presence in Angadi Theru, announced that his next would be a period film titled Aravaan, lovers of Tamil cinema rejoiced that another quality offing was on the pipeline.
Their hopes have not gone false, as Vasanthabalan has come out with yet another honest attempt. But the question here is- will the producer who has invested so much money and time in this project take home the money back?
Though this question should not be the concern of a reviewer, we must say that Aravaan, made out of a huge budget, is agonizingly snail-paced. Those who love art films can alone enjoy this Vasanthabalan's product, or at least that is what we believe.
But at the same time, one should also appreciate the penchant and passion of the director to deliver a good cinema, without any commercial compromises. On that count, Vasanthabalan stands tall and strong, like his protagonist.
There is a place near Madurai and people there, led by Komboodhi (Pasupathi), are thieves. But they have their own principles and follow it at any cost. One day, Komboodhi comes across Varipuli (Aadhi) and both become friends.
Varipuli is a dare devil youth who once saves Komboodhi when he is caught by soldiers in a palace, when he is on the 'job' there. But those in the palace get the shock of their lives on seeing Varipuli. Why?
Aadhi is tailor made for the role. With is macho looks and convincing performance, he passes out in flying colours. Pasupathy is like a pillar and his performance elevates the movie. Dhanshika and Archana Kavi are there as heroines, but have little scope to perform. Others in the cast are okay.
Siddharth's cinematography takes us to 18 century. The art director and costume designer should also be appreciated for that. Singer Karthik makes a stunning debut as music composer.
On the whole, Aravaan turns out to be an important movie of Tamil cinema, in terms of making and storytelling. But how far it will be welcomed by the audience remains a question.