There are very few films that manage to make an impact so profound that you can hardly think of anything else, even long after it gets over. Debutant director Logesh’s first offering is one such masterpiece.
What is even more surprising is that this nearly flawless film has been made by a bunch of first timers.
Yes, director Logesh is not the only one who is a first-timer. Almost his entire technical crew is made up of debutants. Right from his cameraman S K Selvakumar to his music director Javed Riaz to his editor Philomin, all of them are new comers and all of them have delivered exceptional work.
Their work coupled with some brilliant performances from a gifted cast and some amazing storytelling by Logesh is what puts Maanagaram in the creme de la creme league of Tamil cinema.
The film, which revolves around the lives of four individuals, is a gripping, intriguing, intense thriller with a generous dose of comedy, romance and action as well.
The film begins with three of the four individuals taking up new jobs and the fourth one, reluctantly making up his mind to hunt for a job on the insistence of his girlfriend.
Two goof ups happen, thanks to mistaken identity and the net result is that all four individuals, who are not acquainted with one another at the start of the film, eventually find their lives in danger. How each one handles the situation is what makes up the story.
The film’s story is primarily made up of events which happen over a period of 24 to 48 hours in the lives of these four individuals, three of whom are new to the city.
Sree, as the young trainee looking to join a BPO to win his girl’s hand back home in his village, comes up with a sparkling performance. This is yet another gem of a performance from the young actor who is fast earning a reputation for delivering brilliant performances.
Next in line is Munishkanth, who plays the role of a simpleton gangster. Without doubt, this is Munishkanth’s best performance till date. The man is simply in his elements in the film and manages to bring the roof down with his naive statements and innocent antics.
Charlie as a cab driver who is looking to nurse his son back to health actually lives the role. This isn’t the first time he has delivered a commendable performance and this certainly won’t be the last. What an actor!
Sundeep Kishen as a brash youngster who will go to any lengths to save his girlfriend is more than just convincing. It’s a pity that Tamil audiences haven’t had an opportunity to see more of his work.
Finally, there is Regina Cassandra, who handles her role like a pro. She just waltzes through the film, portraying the different shades of her character with the same level of ease and effortlessness. A fantastic performance that will be remembered for a long time to come.
On the whole, this is a film that is bound to make an impact — both on the record books and in the minds and hearts of the Tamil audiences.
Cast:Sundeep Kishan, Sree, Regina Cassandra, Charlie, Munishkanth and others
Director: Logesh Kanakaraj
– By Manigandan K R
