Cinesouth.com
- 19.01.2007
Everyone knows that a Mani Ratnam film is always received well everywhere. Now, 'Pokkiri' seems to be leading over 'Guru.'
In UK, the 3 films released were 'Guru,' 'Pokkiri' and 'Azhwar.' 'Guru' secured 15th spot among the UK top films. The Hindi version grossed 1.35 crores in 44 screenings!
Vijay's 'Pokkiri' came 21st getting 19.39 lakhs in 3 shows. In 29th place, Ajith's 'Azhwar' earned 8.57 lakhs in 2 shows.
Among Indian films released abroad that are doing well, 'Pokkiri' and 'Azhwar' are in Tamil and the successful 'Guru' has been made by a Tamilian. The other films come after that. This was the status last week.
In comparison with the earnings from the number of screenings, Vijay's 'Pokkiri' stands first, followed by 'Azhwar' and then 'Guru.'
'Guru' is doing very well in the US. It earned 3.73 crores in 71 shows in the US and 34.27 lakhs from 10 shows in Australia. As far as Hindi films are concerned, this is a new record.
In mass opening in the UK, Aamir Khan's 'Fanaa' comes first, followed by 'Guru.' Then come Shahrukh Khan's 'Don' and Aamir Khan's 'Rang de Basanti'!
All about Ilayathalapathy Vijay
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Pokkiri – The Pongal Gift of Vijay
The Prelude
My penance has ended today. That too, in the best possible way. The last film of any hero I had watched on any screen (silver screen/small screen) was Aadhi, which was a year ago. (I watched Imsai Arasan few months back, but would consider it a comedian’s film onlyJ) And Pokkiri was the best and fruitful way to end my year long penance.
A disappointing film on his back... Huge expectations of one year from fans… Heavy responsibility to silence the critics… And the new found responsibility of the Next superstar title conferred on him. Vijay hits a huge sixer crossing all boundaries with Pokkiri, handling all the above said issues with ease.
It might not be the best film in Tamil Cinema, it might not be the best film of this year (with Sivaji and Dasavatharam following soon), it might not be as excellent as Ghilli, but it is excellent and brilliant film in its own right. It is sure to leave a mark in the history of Vijay’s film career.
The story and screenplay are same as Telugu I suppose, nothing much to write about it. Its one of the best action-packed entertainers ever witnessed by Tamil Cinema. Slick and crisp presentation, racy script and excellent performances take the film to great heights. Be it a faithful remake or a carbon copy, it takes great guts to make an engaging movie with a story and suspense that is known to half of film audience.
It’s all about how a police officer disguised as a rowdy uproots the gangster groups and curbs the evil activities they do.
The Thumbs Up!!!
ü Asin – She makes her presence deeply felt throughout the movie and her role has an important share in the screenplay. She is not yet another dumb heroine.
ü Supporting Cast –Napolean, Nasser, Prakashraj, Sriman... Each and everyone did their roles in the best way.
ü Cinematography by Nirav shah – Best in a Vijay film till date
ü Editing by Kola Baskar – An important factor in keeping the audience engaged
ü Music by Manisharma – Great songs as everyone knows and a decent background score
ü Comedy – By Vijay, great timing. And Vadivelu in parts, though not 100%
ü Art direction – In Maambazham song and in many stunt scenes.
These were the best moments of the film. The picturisation, choreography, sets were all very appeasing. The intro song was stunning, Vasantha Mullai was fun, Dole Dole was full of style, Nee Mutham Ondru was mellifluous, En Chella
Each song had a different flavor. Special mentions to the historic getup and concept of Vasantha Mullai, Prabhudeva-Vijay dance piece in Aadungada, Costumes in Thamizh song, choreography and editing in Dole Dole and the marvelous sets in Maambazham.
The Pokkiri
If you were wondering where is Vijay in the films plus points, well, he is not just the plus point of the film. He is the life of the film. Without Vijay, Pokkiri would have been yet another crap movie. He lives throughout the film, and stands out in acting, dance, emotions, dialogue delivery, action and everything.
And each of these was different from what he did in the string of action movies till date. The last scenes in Police get-up are really stupendous, to say the least. At least for me, after feeling sick of watching unsized/shapeless heroes in that costume in the name of fitting the character and doing homework. It’s a fresh feeling to watch a tummy-less, fit and handsome IPS officer :-D
The on-screen chemistry between Vijay and Asin was really amazing it was nice to watch Vijay getting actually “romantic” after a long time. (Hmm... I guess last time it was Sachien)
The ReactionsI watched the movie in Abirami. It was not an out and out fan’s crowd and a good number of neutral fans did come. But an all youthful audience- almost equal share of men and women. There was loud response for the entry scenes of Vijay, Asin, Vadivelu and Prakashraj and that Police academy training scene.
And for Maambazham song, from start till the end the whole theatre was full of noise and whistles.
The scenes that brought tears of joy in my eyes I should say – Vijay’s intro, the police academy scene and the Vasantha Mullai song.
The Thumbs Down :(
These do not affect the movie’s brilliance in any way, but still they are the downsides:
c Over make-up of Asin in some scenes.
c Comedy in parts (especially the water lorry and nature’s call scenes)
c Few Graphics, especially the glass breakage in climax fight. I wish such unintentional comedies be avoided in future in such serious scenes.
c Unnecessary characters like don’s girlfriend and loud sidekicks (Too many in number) and a what-is-he-doing-in-this-film act of Anandaraj.
c As already said, conscious efforts of Vijay to make dialogue delivery different.
The Conclusion
It is a landmark movie In Vijay’s career in terms of performance and getting close to the “different” thingie that the film audience expects from him. Hope he maintains the same spirit and tempo in all his movies in future and writes pages of history in his name in Tamil Cine World. Vijay fans could not get a better gift for this Pongal… It’s Pokkiri Pongal all the way!!!
By
Srinivasan
Friday, January 19, 2007
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
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Pongal race – Pokkiri outruns Gilli in Kerala
By Behindwoods News Bureau.
January 18, 2007
Harvest festival Pongal has set the stage for a few big budget releases of the kingpins of Kollywood. Vijay’s Pokkiri, Ajith’s Alwar, and Vishal’s Thamiraparani released amidst huge fanfare in theatres across Tamil Nadu. There were initial hiccups in the release of Pokkiri when the movie was not released in a few theatres in Chennai.
Fans resorted to stone pelting in display of their anger and they gave it a rest when the movie was screened little later.
Now that the hype is over with, it is time for trade analysis and reports from all over. Trade analysts predict from the initial reports that are pouring in from Kerala that Pokkiri’s performance in the state will outdo the collections of Vijay’s previous hit Gilli in no time.
Sources also suggest that while Alwar has been categorized as Ajith’s fan-only movie, Vishal’s Thamiraparani stand a fat chance to have a say at the box office. Stay tuned for updates on Pongal releases.
January 18, 2007
Harvest festival Pongal has set the stage for a few big budget releases of the kingpins of Kollywood. Vijay’s Pokkiri, Ajith’s Alwar, and Vishal’s Thamiraparani released amidst huge fanfare in theatres across Tamil Nadu. There were initial hiccups in the release of Pokkiri when the movie was not released in a few theatres in Chennai.
Now that the hype is over with, it is time for trade analysis and reports from all over. Trade analysts predict from the initial reports that are pouring in from Kerala that Pokkiri’s performance in the state will outdo the collections of Vijay’s previous hit Gilli in no time.
Sources also suggest that while Alwar has been categorized as Ajith’s fan-only movie, Vishal’s Thamiraparani stand a fat chance to have a say at the box office. Stay tuned for updates on Pongal releases.
Pokkiri great opening
January 18, 2007
If one takes the number of advance bookings as a sign of how popular the movie is and if we take it as an indication of things to come, Pokkiri is going to rock. In Devi theatre in Chennai, which is Vijay's stronghold, the tickets for Pokkiri have been sold out until January 21.
Udhayam Theatre, another theatre in Chennai has also sold out all tickets for Pokkiri. It is indeed time for Vijay's fans to rejoice, for this is Vijay's release after a one-year gap. Truly Vijay's fans' dils do "maange more" of Vijay. This is in addition to the awesome reviews for the music of the movie, which Vijay's fan term as simply superb.
Pokiri leads the pack
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Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Chennai box-office - (Jan 12-16 ) - Sify.com
| Film | Cast | Pluses | Minuses | Trade fact |
 Pokkiri | Vijay, Asin, Prakash Raj | Racy mass masala entertainer | Same old formula story | Hit |
Chennai box-office - (Jan 12-16 )
This week, it is a five day Pongal special Chennai box-office. It was “Pokkiri Pongal” all the way. The Vijay starrer took an amazing 97 percent opening from five city theatres in three days and is clearly the number one.
The masses are loving it and they are coming back to see it again as Devi and all other theatres screening the film has kept ticket rates at Rs 40 and Rs 30!
Full Story @ http://sify.com/movies/tamil/boxoffice/fullstory.php?id=14370955
Pokkiri: Possibly a Vijay century - Review from Behindwoods
Behindwoods Movie Review Board
Pokkiri - movie review : Another feather in Vijay’s cap
Cast : Vijay, Asin, Vadivelu
Direction: Prabhu Deva
Music: Mani Sharma
Production : Kanagarathna Movies
The first Vijay starrer in a year; loads of expectation from his fans; another release along with his arch rival Ajith. If you are an ardent Vijay maniac and reading this review with bated breath, we have some good news, Pokkiri has been worth the wait, it lives up to all the expectations.
The hard work that has been put into this movie by Vijay is evident right from the start; the short break seems to have done him good. Prabhu Deva making his directorial debut in Tamil has done a convincing job, with a special mention on the dance sequences.
Pokkiri, branded as an action packed entertainer is sure to strike the right chord with Ilaiya Dalapathi’s fans and the masses. The ‘formula’ has been adhered to well by the script and executed well by the director without appearing stale or repetitive. The tempo of the screenplay, the movie’s single most important factor does not sag through the entire length of the movie.
The action sequences, especially the climax stunt have been well shot. Asin climbs the next step in the glamour ladder; this must be her most glamorous role to date. She leaves an impression, even though the movie starts, moves and ends around Vijay.
The comedy track, handled by Vadivelu has nothing special. In fact, at some places one gets irritated at some ‘below the belt’ stuff that is churned out in the name of comedy. However, the spoof on Ghajini’s superhit song ‘Suttrum Vizhi Chudare’ featuring Vadivelu and Asin has the entire theater in splits. Amusing at times and crass at others, the lighter side of the movie could certainly have been better. Mani Sharma’s music enhances the movie’s appeal.
All songs have come out reasonably well; with Vasantha Mullai remix standing out without demeaning the original. It has also been handled with finesse. Mani Sharma is bound to get a few more offers in Tamil following Pokkiri. The story factor does not seem to hold much significance in the movie. The emphasis is on pacy narration and the approach has worked.
Performance wise, there is not much to mention except Vijay who looks fresh, young and full of energy; the title Pokkiri sits well on him.
Prakash Raj’s character is one of the movie’s disappointments; quite unusual. The way his character has been built leaves a lot to be desired. The redundant ‘Chellams’ in the climax tend to blunt the appeal of the phrase. Prakash Raj, one of Tamil cinema’s finest actors might do well to sit back and analyze the roles that he accepts. He must realize that he too has a fan base that cannot be disappointed. Roles that dent his image may not be well received.
Technically too, the movie is quite well handled. The camera work by Nirav Shah must be appreciated.
Though a sincere adaptation of the original, Prabhu Deva must be commended for not bringing in the Telugu hangover. Pokkiri, aimed at the masses might just cash in on the festive mood and entice the classes too.
A winner, at least it looks to be, after the first day, the overall box office result can only be decided after a couple of days performance. Vijay comes back with a bang, that’s good news for the Tamil industry.
Pokkiri packs a punch.
Pokkiri - movie review : Another feather in Vijay’s cap
Cast : Vijay, Asin, Vadivelu
Direction: Prabhu Deva
Music: Mani Sharma
Production : Kanagarathna Movies
The first Vijay starrer in a year; loads of expectation from his fans; another release along with his arch rival Ajith. If you are an ardent Vijay maniac and reading this review with bated breath, we have some good news, Pokkiri has been worth the wait, it lives up to all the expectations.
The hard work that has been put into this movie by Vijay is evident right from the start; the short break seems to have done him good. Prabhu Deva making his directorial debut in Tamil has done a convincing job, with a special mention on the dance sequences.
Pokkiri, branded as an action packed entertainer is sure to strike the right chord with Ilaiya Dalapathi’s fans and the masses. The ‘formula’ has been adhered to well by the script and executed well by the director without appearing stale or repetitive. The tempo of the screenplay, the movie’s single most important factor does not sag through the entire length of the movie.
The action sequences, especially the climax stunt have been well shot. Asin climbs the next step in the glamour ladder; this must be her most glamorous role to date. She leaves an impression, even though the movie starts, moves and ends around Vijay.
The comedy track, handled by Vadivelu has nothing special. In fact, at some places one gets irritated at some ‘below the belt’ stuff that is churned out in the name of comedy. However, the spoof on Ghajini’s superhit song ‘Suttrum Vizhi Chudare’ featuring Vadivelu and Asin has the entire theater in splits. Amusing at times and crass at others, the lighter side of the movie could certainly have been better. Mani Sharma’s music enhances the movie’s appeal.
All songs have come out reasonably well; with Vasantha Mullai remix standing out without demeaning the original. It has also been handled with finesse. Mani Sharma is bound to get a few more offers in Tamil following Pokkiri. The story factor does not seem to hold much significance in the movie. The emphasis is on pacy narration and the approach has worked.
Performance wise, there is not much to mention except Vijay who looks fresh, young and full of energy; the title Pokkiri sits well on him.
Prakash Raj’s character is one of the movie’s disappointments; quite unusual. The way his character has been built leaves a lot to be desired. The redundant ‘Chellams’ in the climax tend to blunt the appeal of the phrase. Prakash Raj, one of Tamil cinema’s finest actors might do well to sit back and analyze the roles that he accepts. He must realize that he too has a fan base that cannot be disappointed. Roles that dent his image may not be well received.
Technically too, the movie is quite well handled. The camera work by Nirav Shah must be appreciated.
Though a sincere adaptation of the original, Prabhu Deva must be commended for not bringing in the Telugu hangover. Pokkiri, aimed at the masses might just cash in on the festive mood and entice the classes too.
A winner, at least it looks to be, after the first day, the overall box office result can only be decided after a couple of days performance. Vijay comes back with a bang, that’s good news for the Tamil industry.
Pokkiri packs a punch.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
UK Box Office Report
U.K. BOX-OFFICE
[3-day weekend: January 12 – 14, 2007]
[Based on screen averages]
Full News @ http://www.indiafm.com/trade/overseas_boxoffice/index.html
[3-day weekend: January 12 – 14, 2007]
- GURU has debuted at No. 15 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 155,012 [approx. Rs. 1.35 crores] on 44 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 3,523.
- POKIRI [Tamil] has debuted at No. 21 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 22,318 [approx. Rs. 19.39 lacs] on 3 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 7,439.
- AALWAR [Tamil] has debuted at No. 29 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 9,868 [approx. Rs. 8.57 lacs] on 2 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 4,934.
[Based on screen averages]
| RANK | FILM | AVERAGE |
| 1 | POKIRI [Tamil] | £ 7,439 |
| 2 | AALWAR [Tamil] | £ 4,934 |
| 3 | GURU | £ 3,523 |
| 4 | DHOOM 2 | £ 1,030 |
| 5 | BHAGAM BHAG | £ 815 |
| 6 | BAABUL | £ 474 |
| 7 | I SEE YOU | £ 216 |
| 8 | KABUL EXPRESS | £ 159 |
Full News @ http://www.indiafm.com/trade/overseas_boxoffice/index.html
Pokiri strikes it rich
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Pokiri Review - Galatta.com
| Banner | Kanagarathina Movies |
| Producer | S.Sathiyamoorthy |
| Screenplay,Direction | Prabhu Deva |
| Music Director | Mani Sharma |
| Cinematography | Nirav Shah |
| Editing | Srikar prasad |
| Art | Kalai |
| Stunt | Fepsi Vijayan |
| Diolouge | V.Prabakar |
| PRO | P.T.Selvakumar |
| Star Cast | Vijay,Asin,Prakashraj,Napoleon,Vadivelu,Nasar,Anatharaj |
Vijay plays a character called Tamizh, a brat. He works for two mafia gangs along with his friends. He does anything for money. Asin plays the role of an aerobic instructor having the cini name Shruthi.The institution is being run by Nasser, who plays the role of a retired upright cop.
Both the mafia group gets attracted by Vijay's work and they try to convince him to join their group. Meanwhile he falls in love with Asin at the very first sight. Asin too loves him, but hesitates to confess her love to him as he is a reckless criminal. she tries to convince him to leave this kind of work and lead a normal life. But Vijay does not listen to her advice.
The story takes a sudden twist when one of the members from a mafia group is killed. This is when Alibai played by Prakash raj don of that mafia group is introduced. Prakash raj is arrested by the commissioner. Napoleon plays the role of the commissioner.
By the time prakash raj's gang kidnaps Napoleons daughter in order to release him. They distort her character by sending porn pictures and videos of her. Napoleon then releases prakash raj to save his daughter from hell.
But even after Prakash raj comes out of jail, his gang does not let go her and continue to ill-treat her in the same way. Unable to tolerate the abuse she tells them that her father (Napoleon) will kill all those who ill-treated her. She also tells them that one man from the department is involved in their gang.
On listening to this prakash raj becomes very shocked and tries to find out the culprit. They get an information that the culprit is the son of Nasser, a retired upright cop. Prakash raj and his gang tortures and kills him and finds out the culprit. To everybody's shock Vijay was the person from the department who worked along with his gang. He also comes to know that he is an IPS Officer. The movie ends with Vijay rescuing Napoleons daughter from the mafia gang and punishing them.
National Award Choreographer Prabhu Deva has directed this movie. The movie Pokkiri is a re-make of a telugu film Pokkiri.If the violence in the movie would have been reduced it would have been good.Prabhu Deva has directed the movie, if he had done the choreography by himself he would have made vijay fans feel more happier. The camera of Nirav Shah was good. Stunts of Fepsi vijayan's stunts was impressive. All will like Mani Sharma�s music.
This is a movie which is typically suited for Vijay. He has done everything perfect. Asin has done her character well. She has done a character which is different compared to other movies.
All the characters in the movie are perfect.
Pokkiri is smart 'N' excellent movie.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Vijay and Silambarasan want to see Mirugam
IndiaGlitz
[Saturday, December 15, 2007]
Very rarely we come across such responses. Mirugam, which hit the screens yesterday (December 14), has triggered much interest not only among the public but also from the stars.
Impressed by the ads and the first day’s responses, Silambarasan has expressed his willingness to see the film, directed by Samy. Vijay too has conveyed Samy that he wants to see the movie.
Vijay, who leaves for Malaysia with the unit of Kuruvi, has requested the director to arrange a show before he leaves. Samy has planned two different shows for Silambarasan and Vijay keeping their tight schedules in mind.
It is a healthy trend that prominent personalities in Kollywood recognizing others’ admirable efforts. Recently we saw many stars including Vijay and Parthibhan showering praise on Thangar Bachchan and Vadivelu. Now Samy receives rare complements from the leading stars. These kinds of responses would definitely go a long way in encouraging different attempts in Kollywood.
[Saturday, December 15, 2007]
Very rarely we come across such responses. Mirugam, which hit the screens yesterday (December 14), has triggered much interest not only among the public but also from the stars.
Impressed by the ads and the first day’s responses, Silambarasan has expressed his willingness to see the film, directed by Samy. Vijay too has conveyed Samy that he wants to see the movie.
Vijay, who leaves for Malaysia with the unit of Kuruvi, has requested the director to arrange a show before he leaves. Samy has planned two different shows for Silambarasan and Vijay keeping their tight schedules in mind.
It is a healthy trend that prominent personalities in Kollywood recognizing others’ admirable efforts. Recently we saw many stars including Vijay and Parthibhan showering praise on Thangar Bachchan and Vadivelu. Now Samy receives rare complements from the leading stars. These kinds of responses would definitely go a long way in encouraging different attempts in Kollywood.
Pokiri Review - Sify.com
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Movie : Pokkiri Director : Prabhu Deva Producer : Ramesh Babu Music : Mani Sharma Cast :Vijay, Asin, Prakash Raj, Nassar By Moviebuzz |
| Pokkiri is a power packed mass masala entertainer. If you are looking out for some fun and time-pass entertainment then Prabhu Deva and Vijay combo is sure to make your day. Thrill-a-minute is the calling card of this unpretentious film which plays to the gallery. Superbly choreographed action and song sequences, fast moving storyline laced with Vadivelu�s comedy, romance and subtle sentiments - all make this film a festival treat. Don�t expect any surprises in the plot or treatment. It is a faithful remake of Puri Jagannath�s Telugu Pokiri. Remember that Puri the master copy cat had taken the plot from the Hollywood gangster thriller Dannie Brasco (1997) featuring Johnny Depp and Al Pacino. Tamizh(Vijay) is ruthless, fearless hit man in Chennai underworld. He climbs the mafia ladder much to the dislike of other members in the gang. But he has some principles in the job as he never does any harm to ladies or children. He sees Sruthi (Asin) an aerobic teacher and falls hook-line-sinker for her. Tamizh rubs the local mafia chief Guru who controls the city and kills him. Now the master mind of all crimes, the international don Ali Bhai (Prakah Raj) lands up in the city and appoints Tamizh as the new chief. Now the big twist is that Tamizh is none other than Satyamoorthy IPS who has infiltrated into the gang to clean up the city off its gangsters. All this leads to a riveting climax when City Police Commissioner�s (Napolean) daughter is kidnapped and Satyamoorthy becomes the one-man-army who takes on Ali Bhai and his entire gang. What makes Pokkiri tick is that the story uses all the characters as restless, unbelievable pawns in a do-or-die chess game. To Prabhu Deva� credit, he keeps the tempo running besides making use of Vijay�s immense screen presence and comedy timing. Nirav Shah and editor Kola Bhaskar has used a techno-pop-style for the first time in a mass masala Vijay film that gives it an extra edge. The romance in the lift scene and in the ruins when Sruthi is about to express her love for Tamizh which is cut short with sporadic gunfire and killings has been well-picturised. Vijay-Asin pair has terrific on-screen chemistry. The actress has never been picturised so glamorously as the camera focuses mainly on her front, midriff and back especially in her introductory scene. Vadivelu�s comedy track as a Kung-Fu instructor is hilarious especially the Suttrum Vizhi.. number where he pokes fun at Surya. But the same cannot be said about some scenes when he pees on a bike are in low taste. Prakash Raj is like old wine that gets better with time as he once again surprises you with his performance especially the scene in police custody. It is an out-and-out Vijay film as the wise-cracking rowdy who turns a cop, he is wacky and has great comedy timing. He steers the film to the winning post. Mani Sharma�s music from the original has been retained and songs like Aadungada Ennai Suthi.. and Tamil Tamil.. are hummable and well-choreographed. On the downside, the film is lengthy( 2 hours 50 minutes) and there is too much of blood and gore, including disturbing close-up shots. But on the whole, Pokkiri is enjoyable while it lasts. Verdict : Paisa Vasool |
Pokiri - Action aplenty
| Banner: | Kanagarathna Movies |
| Cast: | Vijay, Asin, Prakash Raj, Vadivelu, Nasser, Napoleon |
| Direction: | Prabhudeva |
| Production: | Rameshbabu |
| Music: | Manisharma |
| IndiaGlitz [Monday, January 15, 2007] |
 With a winner in the form of story, Vijay in the company of Prabhu Deva has come out with an action-packed entertainer. With typical 'Vijayisms' (action, humor and punch dialogues) finding a place at right intervals, he steals the show and his charm is spread all through the movie. The life and blood of the movie, the actor charms the audience in dance and stunt sequences. His characterization, though not unfamiliar to the film-buffs, is made interesting by director Prabhu Deva as he has let Vijay to be himself on the screen. Prabhu Deva and Vijay leave their magical presence especially in the dance sequences. Both proven dancers, the choreography for the peppy songs are entertaining and attractive.  Asin is attractive and plays a typical heroine falling in love with a macho-man. She does have the opportunity to shake her legs with Vijay. Both Vijay and Asin share a terrific on-screen chemistry. Prakash Raj as the notorious Don Alibhai does an excellent job. His mannerisms and body language would surely win applause from the film-buffs. Napoleon plays an honest police commissioner in the hunt of criminals. Hats off to him for playing the tough role with utmost grace. Vadivelu evokes laughter with his comedy. He succeeds in tickling the funny bone. He dons the role of a kung-fu instructor. Tamizh (Vijay) is a hardcore criminal, who can do anything for money and also change loyalties for currency. He meets Sruthi (Asin) and love is the immediate offspring between the two. A villainous cop attracted by Sruthi threatens her mother to send her daughter with him. Enters Tamizh as a savior for Sruthi and her family. Tamizh works for an underworld gang and he soon rises in life, owing to his bravery and never-say-die attitude. The sequences that throw light on the ruffian attitude and ‘can’t-care-any-less’ stance of Tamizh offer sumptuous treat for Vijay’s fans. His boss and an international don Alibhai (Prakash Raj) arrive from abroad only to be caught by the Tamil Nadu police.  An honest cop Mohideen Khan (Napoleon) investigating the cases of Alibhai is blackmailed by Ali's men. What happens next is narrated in a fast-paced, gripping narrative that is sure to bring the audiences to the edge of their seats. The twist of events adds to the thrills. Stunts by Vijayan are a major attraction of the movie. The chasing sequences have been captured well by Nirav Shah's lens. Sreekar Prasad’s editing is crisp with fast-paced cuts. All credit to director Prabhu Deva for managing to sustain the tempo throughout. He has given a perfect formula film for Vijay which should work out well with the masses. He seems to have given more thrust on expressions and all his characters are there, doing what Prabhu Deva wanted from them. Excellent choreography, thrilling action sequences and catchy songs besides cool 'punch lines' from Vijay contribute for a cracker in Pokiri. To sum up, the movie is an action-packed film with loads of fun and thrill. Pokiri is a sweet Pongal treat for Vijay fans. |
KUMUDAM INTERVIEW - 3rd PART
Cine people have the most happiest life with high salary, contact with beautiful women, foreign tour chances. Do you agree?
-A.JayaVeeran, Thiruvannamalai
Vijay: Who said other people dont have happiness? They too enjoying their life. Now all people are flying. Then, why you jeoulous about cine people. ( yenge ippadi kannu vekkuringe?)
-Suba.Palaniyappan, Trichy
Vijay: They called it "Uumai Kusumbu" in our place. That's my character. Maybe we can say I'm a silent pokkiri.
Now a days, all actors want to be Superstar including you. In futute, can you make all actors to say "I want to be like Ilayathalapathy" ?
-C.Karthigeyan, Viruthunagar
Vijay: All people want to be the first place in which ever field their in. That what we are doing in our life. We all do hardwork for it. We only can succeed in life if we have such kind of ambitions. That what I to want to be. So, I'm going to that direction now.
For long the "heroism" of beating-up ten guys at a time will go on?
-R.Ganesan, Madurai
Vijay: Until you're watching it
-V.Kavitha Rajeswari, Perampaloor
Vijay: I wonder how do this guy became an actor
If you were appointed as one day CM, what would be the first action you'll take for the benefits of Tamil Nadu?
- L.Sevuga Paandian, Raathapuram
Vijay: I'll do all the action taken by Arjun in Mudhalvan.
Is profit (vasool) is you only aim or have any interest in awards?
-Ram. Athinarayanan
Vijay: Vasool than
Tell the truth, do you really hate politic?
-A.Suhali Reshman, Trichy
Vijay: I never hate politic. But, politic doesnt suits for me, Reshman.
There are rumors saying that you Rasigar Mandram, is also getting into politic like Vijayakanth' s rasigar mandrams. What is your opinion?
-V.Ramkumar, Veloore
Vijay: Members from my fan club does contest in election. Many won in the election and some didn't. But they didnt use my fan club name or they didnt represent me or my fan club. Its their own interest, I didnt ask or push them into politic.
Priya Vijay, we feel happy and excited when see your energetic acting on screen. I wish you'll act as hero all the time like MGR, will you act?
-Thaiyuramoorthy, Chennai
Vijay: Thats nice thing, for i'll act for sure.
Copyright: Kumudam Magazine 17th Jan 2007
Link: http://www.kumudam. com/magazine/ Kumudam/2007- 01-17/pg4. php
Edit by: R.Ravishankar
Photo by R..Gopal, Chitramani and Pokkiri
Translation Courtesy: STEVE
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