With lots of punch -- Pokkiri : The Hindu

MADE FOR VIJAY: Pokkiri

Pokkiri

Genre: Action
Director: Prabhu Deva
Cast: Vijay, Asin, Prakash Raj, Napolean, Vadivelu, Nasser, Asish Vidyarthy, Vincent Asokan, Sreeman and Vaiyapuri.
Storyline: The mystery behind a mercenary.
Bottomline: Out and out a Vijay film.

After watching the Telugu `Pokkiri,' one wondered how it could be rehashed to suit Vijay. Well, kudos to Prabhu Deva for doing a fine job of the remake.

Kanakarathinam Movies' "Pokkiri" has all the ingredients to make it a box office success, and that is what Vijay needs now after "Aadhi." The story is about a rowdy who kills for money. And thereby hangs a tale. Enters Asin, who loves his manliness and good heart but he spurns her affection.

An overdose

This is one film where Vijay uses his fists and the punch dialogue with telling effect. Only it is an overdose and one is left with the feeling that it is essentially an effort to boost Vijay's image. Asin, beautiful, is a glamour doll and the screenplay just does not allow her to emote or show any histrionic skills. Prakash Raj, who enters the scene in the second half as Ali Bai, provides some hilarious moments.

Vadivelu, on the other hand, fails in his role as comedian. Nasser is his usual competent self and the movie picks up with his revelation. Napolean as an upright police officer is really different. Vincent Asokan as Guru has done a neat job while Sriman as the friend of the hero stands out. Vaiyapuri, Sriranjani and Ashish Vidyarthy have also made noteworthy contributions.

Nirav Shah's angles and visuals go along with the story and the songs have been picturised in a beautiful way. Almost all the songs composed by Mani Sharma are melodious with `Dolu Dolu' topping the list. The song is sun by Ranjith and Suchitra. Pa. Vijay has written the lyrics. Vasantha Mullai' (written by Na. Muthukumar and sung by Raghul Nambiar, V.Krishnamurthy) is not remix, but blends with the tune in a lovely way. Re-recording is above average.

V. Prabhakar has written the dialogue and excels in the punch lines and in the romance scenes.

Produced by Ramesh Babu the film is directed by Prabhu Deva who has done his homework admirably. The dance movements, especially for the `Dolu Dolu' song speak volumes of Deva's expertise. In fact, action and dance garner a lion's share of the frames. And an extra word of commendation for maintaining the suspense till the climax.

S. R. ASHOK KUMAR

THE HINDU