First day, first show

"Panninga-thaan da kootam kootama varum, singam single-la thaan varum"

One of the very few punch-dialogues by the Super star in this film. In these days, even when adloscent heroes have punch dialogues, its quite smart of Shankar to make the comedian Vivek speak such dialogues instead of Rajni.

Sivaji -

This is not a Shankar film.

Just like for most other films, do not look for any logic here too.

Sivaji is a must-watch, fantastic Rajni film. It would be difficult for the SS to better this film in terms of style, risks and experimentation.

Though the title sequence evokes interest, the introduction sequence and the song are do not bring in energy, unlike Rajni's usual opening sequence. But the film slowly picks up and the first half is quite humorous and stylish. Rajni-Vivek combo supported by an array of artists make us happy. Even the stunt in the first half is a light one, though executed well. The comedy is drawn liberally by spoofing many old films and dialogues, like the SS saying - "Enna vacchu comedy yethum pannaleyae.." in Vadivelu style. Or the Chandramukhi song sequence being enacted by Shreya-Rajni. And from many other places like Anniyan, Sivakasi etc. Quite fun. White Rajni is awesome. Rajni style stands out from the very first scene.

The second half is a Rajni riot. There is nobody else on screen. Suman does an impressive role, though subdued. But there are a few really humorous sequences in this half too. Also unexpected dialogues like "Motta boss.." and "Parasakthi hero.." make the film more enjoyable. Nothing more to be analysed here, only experienced. Watch out for the boss in the climax. Rajni establishes himself as the boss, for ages to come.

So, what's Shankar doing?

He has shown who he is in conceptualising and executing songs and stunt sequences. Especially the "Adhiratikaaran..." has almost realised Rajni's full potential. "Oru koodai.." is wonderful. Awesome. The sets for "Sahaana.." and "Vaaji vaaj.."" are breathtaking. KV Anandh has done a great job here. However Shankar has failed a bit in "Ballelakka..", its so much inspired by "Konjum mynaakalae.." and "Andan kaakkaa.." songs. AR Rahman has infused so much energy into the film. The stunts have taken Rajni to a new plane.

With that, I abstain from carrying on with this highly biased, pro-Rajni review.

What is your caste?

Easily the worst question I get to hear from somebody. My reply is one of these depending on my mood and my relation with the person asking.

* How does it matter to you?

* Don't you have anything else to ask?

* I'm a human being.

* How is it relevant?

* I'm an Indian.

* Don't irritate me.

And I really mean every reply I give. How does it matter to someone to which group I belong to, if at all? I feel if there is nothing else to ask it's better to give some rest to the mouth. And I can understand if somebody above 60 years of age or having a couple of grandchildren asks this, then it can be called the generation gap. But what's disgusting is when people from the so-called young India put up this question!

Worse is when the so-called educated even start orkut communities on caste lines, probably they took the word "community" too seriously. And what to say about the souls who become the members of such online caste groups. Hopeless. Apparently these communities are dedicated to - "...enlightening people about (community name here, deleted) values, traditions, beliefs, culture and also as a platform for entertainment." Quite euphemistic, these guys are. Naturally, they are all well-educated isn't it!

Either, these people have a serious sense of insecurity or not able to control their urge to assert their illusory dominance. In either case, it's highly regressive. These netizens are no better than the local goon who plays with people's sentiments to meet selfish needs.

There is also an argument that caste prejudices will not be removed unless there is an active discussion on it. Let me think more on this. I 'm very happy that most of us in Tamil Nadu do not have surnames.

Cheeni Kum

Had seen this film's trailer some days back, was not impressed. Looked like one another failed attempt at making a fine film. But having watched this film last night, I realised this is one of those rare cases where actually the film is much better than its trailer. Ironically, the film director happens to be the Executive Creative Director of India's one of the best ad agencies!

Cheeni Kum is a refreshing film. Good script. Ilayaraja's old melodies are given a new lease of life, which in turn blends with the natural perfomance of the actors. Every role is given its due place by the director, right from Big B to Colgate. The film is never a one-man/woman show. A realistic script that is never over-burdened with sentiments. Quite humourous, most of the converstaions between the hero/heroine are sarcastic, witty. The kitchen happenings and the bunch of chefs provide a pace for the unfolding of the interesting relationship between the two - a very old man and a slighlty old female.

Though the character of the kid with blood-cancer is cliched, the little girl has put up a stellar performance. The interactions between the little kid and the very old man are quite funny yet meaningful, though a sad tone always lingers in our hearts. The second half is not as interesting, and the script has failed to keep the audience glued to it. Paresh Rawal raises our expectations, only to let us down after the first few minutes. This character needs more life. However the film picks up towards the end, when the iron pillar in Qutb area comes to the rescue of the script. Quite innovative. At many places, very simple happenings of our lives are captured well - like Amitabh's mother always stressing on his health or the nicknames that the hero/heroines give each other or the efforts required to apologise to somone whom one had had a fight with . I also see a tinge of Maniratnam in the dialogues.

Watch it.

For Balki's interview

http://www.blonnet.com/catalyst/2007/05/17/stories/2007051700140300.htm

Six Reasons to Smile

A couple of days back I came across a poster with this post's title, and the following lines.

* Smiles make others believe
* Smiles are contagious
* A smile makes your dream come true
* Smiles make your eyes sparkle
* Smiles are stepping stones to great things in life
* I forgot this verse

(Insert: Ronaldo, the highly successful chimp.) I found some of the lines really funny, especially the second and fourth ones.(Are they meant to be funny? I don't know.) Should we do something just because it is contagious?! And here my friend asks, Do we really need a reason at all to smile? Point.
By the way our school motto is "Keep Smiling".