Ponmalai Pozhudhu

My review: Ponmalai Pozhudhu

It is astonishing how when a movie with a particular theme is released and successful, it is followed by slew of movies on similar themes. Here though it is more of a co-incidence that "Ponmaalai Pozhudhu" is released couple of weeks after "Aadhalal Kadhal Seiveer" that deals with almost similar issue albiet from different viewpoints. Bud sadly the honesty and conviction of the latter seems to be a casualty in "Ponmaalai Pozhudhu". Rookie A.C.Durai's inexperience and jitters at wielding the megaphone shows on the end product which lacks the punch and proficiency of a professional. 

Movie is inconsistent at many levels. Story is not focused with many transgressions that dilute the main plot that director wants to present. Screenplay is haggered swaying all over the place with stretches of  inanity that tests your patience. Even the characters and their performances are inconsistent. Heroine's father character is one of the most crude and theatrical characterization in recent times with a loud Aruldoss making it worse. And Kishore's is the other end of the spectrum as the hero's father who is so compliant and understanding that it reeks out artificiality in spite of a dignified and honest effort from him. In fact the scenes involving Kishore and Anupama Kumar as his wife are the one of  the very few instances the movie is bearable with almost having a poetic tinge to it.  

The first half is artificially conceived and presented in a contrived manner. Due to the weak first half one is not able to invest in the characters emotionally and as a result the better second half suffers. Due to the tortuous and contrived screenplay movie doesn't evoke any emotions from the viewers in the end. In fact even half way into the first half one can see the audience becoming restless in their seats. The poorly placed songs confounding the matter further.  

Aadhav Kannadasan makes his debut with this flick but has a long way to go before he can pass muster. However his footwork in the song sequences are quiet good for a new-comer. Gayathrie, one of the few promising young actresses who can confidently dub herself has done a decent job. Kishore and Anupama Kumar are good in their roles as understanding parents of Aadhav while Arul Doss is irritating in an over-the-top theatrical role as Gayathrie's father.

Music is the only redeeming aspect of this movie. In Sathya's music movie boasts of a hit album. "Adikadi mudi" in Hariharan's honey coated voice after a long time is the pick of the album while "Iravugalil" is not far behind. 

On the whole, "Ponmaalai Pozhudhu" tries a "Thulluvatho Ilamai" but it is neither honest enough nor bold enough, as a result destined to fall by the wayside. 

Bottomline: Not a pleasant experience.

1.5/5