Kadal

My review : Kadal

Mani Ratnam's  "Kadal" is a feeble attempt at depicting the lifestyle of fisher-folk of coastal Tamil Nadu. It terms of authenticity and ingenuity "Kadal" is not even half as close to "Neerparavai" in depicting the lifestyle,  mores, and demographics of fishermen well. The purpose here is different, story is more abstract, almost metaphysical with sea-side and fishermen hamlet serving only as a picturesque backdrop for the narrative. 

The spoilsport this time is screenplay which is sketchy and woolly with scenes and characters popping out at the convenience of the scriptwriter. Hence it is difficult to sustain interest in the long course of two and half hours. Mani Ratnam and Jeyamohan have collaborated on the screenplay. Also movie has meager entertainment value with contents which are intended for entertainment failing to live up to it, songs picturization is a case in point. One of the best albums so far this year ruined by very ordinary picturization, especially much acclaimed "Nenjukulle" limited to the background is sad to see. 

What makes the movie click is the acting by the lead trio, Arjun, Arvind Swamy and Gautham Karthik. Veterans Arjun and Arvind have done their parts splendidly but it is the young Gautham who steals the show holding his end admirably in between the two seniors. Various shades of emotions are portrayed effortlessly by him. He seems to be at ease in emoting even in challenging portions. Thulasi is earnest but her effort gets spoilt by poor and confusing characterization. At times she looks intellectually disabled while at certain other parts not. The justification for the same is not that effectively told. 

 

Another reason why one should watch this movie is splendid cinematography by Rajeev Menon. Landscape and locations chosen has enhanced the visuals and made Rajeev's work easier. However at certain points there seem to be some glitches in the frames, wonder why.

A.R.Rahman's songs are already chartbusters but the picturization of the same leaves a lot to be desired. "Nenjukulle", and "Moongil Thottam" are my picks. But the background score is weak. It is one of the poorer background score from Rahman.

Story and dialogues are by Jayamohan. This time around Mani gets the dialects right unlike "Raavan".

On the whole, "Kadal" is a okayish movie for those who watch it with a open mind disregarding the fact that legendary maker like Mani Ratnam is the writer-director of the movie. Mani seems to have regained some lost ground from the disastrous "Raavan" yet he is far from his best.

Bottomline: One time watch.

3/5