 This remake of Tamil original "Veerumandi" is yet another feather in pioneering star Kamal Haasan's cap.
The veteran and versatile actor comes up with a brilliant performance as a ruffian who falls in love and reforms. It is as a director, however, that he scores higher.
He narrates the story from the perspectives of both the protagonist and the antagonist.
Handling a complex subject with characteristic competence, he enhances the film's appeal with his technical finesse. A memorable illustration is an aesthetically shot moonlight duet.
Maestro Ilayaraja offers a delectable fare of songs, besides a mind-blowing background score. Popular playback singer S.P. Balasubramaniam, dubbing for Kamal, breathes life into the character.
The film again reiterates the need for abolishing capital punishment. Perhaps Kamal will find a hit in this anger-driven film since a hit in Telugu is long overdue for him.
The story begins with Kamal returning to his village from Dubai to look after his mother and their land. He gets involved in local life and even participates in the traditional bull-catching sport.
He falls in love with Abhirami, kin of wicked village head Pasupathi. After losing his mother, Kamal falls into the trap of Pasupathi, who eyes his land. Napolean plays the rival leader.
A set of developments leads to the lovers' elopement. Pasupathi chases them and kills Abhiramai. For the rest of the story, watch the film.
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