Sports movies these days often follow a very familiar pattern. There would be the frustrated coach, the inefficient team, the surge of energy, problems in the team, the setbacks and the big win. Well, all these and more are there in 'Karinkunnam 6s'. What becomes a major challenge in such movies is maintaining the momentum and making things look realistic. To this end, the entire team deserves a standing ovation. The only problem would be a nagging feeling of being familiar with it all since many Hollywood and Bollywood movies have trodden this path umpteen times.
But the canvas of 'Karinkunnam 6s' has been well set with a layered storyline and practical considerations. Of course there would be flaws in the technicalities of the game and issues of continuity and this is expected to be out in the open once the dvd releases. The story revolves around a well meaning and selfless coach played by Anoop Menon who wishes to field a team in the Volleyball Premier League. His wife Vandana pitches in to help him with his dream and end up rounding up some jail inmates to form the team. In the meanwhile how Vandana lands the job in the jail et al are revealed. The team is typical in a sense, with each member slotted in to fill specific traits. This seems quite conscious, but the brilliant show by the actors takes off the contrived effort.
Manju Warrier looks very cool and level headed in her role as a spirited coach. There is an effortlessness which feels refreshing. Director Deepu Karunakaran has directed her well and there is no awkwardness in the characterisation of Vandana. Moreover, one does not feel the glorification of her role, which adds a great deal to the movie. Also the deviations on the plot concerning the characters essayed by Major Ravi adds to the narrative.
'Karinkunnam 6s' is hardly a one woman show. In fact the team members takes the cake with a classy performance. Sudheer Karamana especially stands out. Suraaj Venjaramoodu stands out as the police officer. Life inside the four walla is also interesting yo watch. But it is sad that Sudev Nair was relegated to doing small roles after the Best Actor Award win. Without naming everyone, it would suffice to say that the volley team has a big part in providing the emotional quotient in the movie. Of course the coaches too opens up their emotions in the course of events. There are some smashing dialogues which earns applause among the audience.
Deepu has been able to maintain the energy of the movie. To this end, the cinematography and editing departments have pitched in wonderfully. Some of the sequences have been shot with as many as six cameras and the editing work is top notch to provide the thrills. The camera too has captured moments on field wonderfully. Songs are by Rahul Raj and they are commendable.
'Karinkunnam 6s'may not be novel in its approach or style, but is entertaining to say the least, with action and drama interspersed well. The momentum is fine and this could be a one time enjoyable watch for all.
