Vinodayatra Review

Monday, April 30, 2007

Just about everybody has an agenda. It isn't unusual to see films in which the director uses his characters to mouth his feelings about issues. This time around, it was Sathyan Andhikaat's turn to speak his mind through Anupama, his heroine.

There's something special about Sathyan Andhikaat. His film genre is very predictable- family. His films move at a steady pace and aren't in a hurry to get anywhere. But, almost always, they end up making more money at the box office than some of the best fast-paced films. Dileep was doing a fine job as an adorable comedy hero. But when he shifted to action, he also started to lose his sense of judgment of comedy films too. Just when he was clueless about what to do with his career, he found his own Vinodayatra.

The film's story is very simple. There is nothing even remotely suspenseful or unpredictable about it.

Dileep is Vinod, an MCA graduate. He still hasn't figured out what to do with the rest of his life. His parents decide to send him to his sister Vimala's (played by Seetha) house. She is married to Shaji Raghavan (played by Mukesh), an engineer with the Irrigation Department. The idea is to put some sense into Vinod's head so he would do something useful with his life.

Shaji isn't all that happy to have Vinod at home because his unmarried younger sister too is living with them. He doesn't want the younger sister to fall in love with his irresponsible brother-in-law.

Life is smooth and full of rib-tickling funny incidents. But the seriousness of the narration increases when he runs into Anupama (the heroine, Meera Jasmine). She has a sad tale- she was a student of engineering who had to quit her studies and share the family responsibility when her police-constable dad gets killed in an accident.

A nice chemistry develops between them and they start to meet each other frequently. She slowly starts to make a profound impact on Vinod's mindset. He learns that he really doesn't have to get all worked up about things and events that don't make much difference.

The film has a very wonderful cast. All of them are versatile actors and actresses. They really didn't have to strain themselves too much to play these roles.

Ilayaraaja's songs are melodious as usual. Sathyan's faith in the music director stands justified. The music doesn't distract you from the film, but fills the gaps beautifully. You really feel warm and comfortable with yourself when you watch the film. That's what you call Sathyan Andhikaat magic.

Cast - Dileep, Meera Jasmine, Seetha, Mukesh and others.
Director - Sathyan Andhikat
The Producer - MM Hamsa