Director: Vignesh Sivan
Casts: STR, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, VTV Ganesh
Music: Dharan
Language: Tamil
Genre: Romantic Comedy
The following article is by IndiaGlitz user Kannan Vijayakumar and it's not IndiaGlitz's take towards anyone or anything..
After a sequence of experimental films and action entertainer, Osthe, STR strikes back with an easy romantic comedy directed by debutant Vignesh Sivan which also marks the debut of Sarathkumar's daughter, Varalaxmi. Podaa Podi was highly anticipated ever because it have announced, mainly because of its title and touted premise. So does Podaa Podi strikes the chord despite being made for 4 years?
Synopsis
Podaa Podi is a narrative set in London where two people, Arjun (STR) and Nisha (Varu) who has diverse perception about life fall in love and the way their differences carries forward as their relationship progresses from like to marriage.
Story & Screenplay
Surprisingly, Podaa Podi doesn't look dated at all, way to its ever relatable premise at the two opposite poles; Women and men. Vignesh Sivan scores along with his witty and relatable dialogues and situations. From the beginning to the end, the film is targeted well at the main characters and the director seems to have a transparent grasp on who he have intended the film to succeed in. However Podaa Podi can't be eliminated as film just for the youth but additionally has some practical examples for married couples who've repelling perception about life.
The film also has believable lead pair who often gets tangled because of their different cultural stands. The film which begins with a classy feel, but shifts slightly on the 2 nd half because the director injects his antiquated tackle Tamil culture. That does look quite confusing but doesn't affect the carefree tone of the film.
In overall, Podaa Podi stays excited by its main premise and results as a 'new age' Kushi.
Casting
STR is unquestionably the principle man on this section who had stood by the struggles of the team to wrap the film up. His characterization is inconspicuous yet likable. His casual body language and comic timing is a
Major plus to the lively mood of the film. His emotional scenes are progressively improving by each film and the scene where he confronts Shobana at her home is one such example where he also stamps his experience. Because the film contains dance as a backdrop, there are many opportunities for STR to polish but he waits till the top to showcase his full dancing calibre on the song, 'I am a Kuthu Dancer'.
A rom com will only get successful when there's an equally strong character and a skilled cast to hold it. Varu shines brilliantly with an outstanding debut by undertaking each scene with heart. Her original voice and fast diction, adds an apt flavour to her flamboyant character. Additionally it is shocking for her to peer her dancing capability matching that of STR's at many times.
Other casts corresponding to VTV Ganesh is an actual scream while Shobana's character unfortunately, looks lost. Premji and Santhanam even have done a blink and miss cameos on the intro song.
In overall, Podaa Podi has a well collaborated casting team led by the sparkling chemistry of STR and Varu.
Technical Aspects
Podaa Podi, as dance musical, demands much technical perfection and the film does lack in it. Dharan's music is peppy, fresh and experimental which serves the correct of energy needed for a dance themed film. His BGMs are done in some way which doesn't overpower the film but travels soothingly with the scenes. Podaa Podi should give Dharan a noisy entry to the league of giant music directors.
Duncan Teleford because the D.O.P captures London colourfully which elevates the sunshine hearted mood of the film further. On the subject of the songs, Duncan has experimented some ways to provide the audiences a candy floss feels which succeeds at many parts.
In addition, the trouble from the art department have to be commended as they try to give different tones of colors (in the case of costumes and sets) at different episodes in their life.
Last but not the least, Anthony who've been giving lengthy edits recently, has given a crisp product which runs just 2 hours.
In overall, the young director, Vignesh, have collaborated brilliant young talents which ends up in a fresh treatment.
Conclusion
Podaa Podi certainly enters the league of growing class Rom-com, following Kadhalil Sothapuvadhu Eppadi, which was released early this year. Vignesh Sivan's relatable screenplay, distinctive target market and fresh treatment, make Podaa Podi a likable musical treat instantly.
Rating: 4/5
