Kanna - Review

Kanna is the worthy debut film of Anand, who has worked with R Parthiban earlier.

Kanna traces the emotions of a teenager Sheela, a school girl. She is the only daughter of upper middle class business man Prakasha Raj-Seetha couple lives in Coimbatore. The father and daughter share a special bond. Sheela goes on an educational tour to Ooty with her classmates. Raja, a young florist delivers flowers at their lodge every morning. His cheerful personality endears him to the schoolgirls and their teachers. Raja also helps them to look for some rare flowers there. Sheelai feels that he is trying to impress her and often snubs him. But she finds herself drawn towards him. Raja is unaware of this though.

On the way back to home, she feels as she is missing Raja. One eventful day skipping classes at school, she goes to Ooty with the intention of meeting Raja and tells all about her love towards him. But the two-wheeler, which she is driving, makes her trouble. She continues on her way by walk, hitching a ride on the way. Meanwhile, her parents are worried when she does not return home from school in the evening. The climax is sensible and even worth to watch with every teen age girl.

The story is simple but the treatment given by the director is very honest and effective. He shows how teenage girls step into trouble without any idea just because of infatuation. The script has enough stuff to warn the young to avoid the risky situations they can possibly subject themselves to. Not to forget the mental trauma and shame their parents are subjected to.

Sheela plays well as a school going girl with impressive performances. Raja as the smooth talking florist is a welcome addition to Tamil films. He looks dashing and has the making of a romantic hero. Giving the story some light moments are the two teachers Aashirwatham (Livingstone) and Venilla (Sona Nair).

No scope for Seetha to perform. She is coming in few scenes with few lines dialogues. Prakash Raj in the role of Sheela's father is spontaneous. As the father, whose daughter is missing, he portrays well the anxiety, trying at the same time to mask his fear and doubts. Ranjith Barod's music is very impressive and there are two good numbers also there to hum.

This film does not have the hero chasing the girl and professing his love or doing silly capers to impress her. He is the boy next door, whom you might fall in love with, but he hardly notices it. The camera work is really a visual treat with the breathtaking locations of Ooty. Thanks to Thajmal.

The only minus of the film is slow narration. But the film serves the purpose without fail.

Kanna is a neat and clean film with a message for teenagers.

Verdict: A must watch movie!
Credits:
Cast: Prakash Raj, Seetha, Sheela, Raja, Livingston
Music: Ranjith Barod
Camera: Thajmal
Direction: Anandh
Production: Cosmic Film Entertainment Company (p) Ltd.,