For the 50th birthday of showman of Kannada cinema V Ravichandran, `Mallikarjuna' releasing three days earlier to his birthday on May 30, there is absolutely nothing special to rejoice.
The value addition to the existing image of trailblazer V Ravichandran has not happened. Just because producer Dinesh Gandhi had the rights of Tamil film `Thavasi' (released in 2001 starring Vijaykanth and Soundaraya) he must have compelled V Ravichandran to accept this film.
The richness seen in V Ravichandran films, melodious songs the forte of all his films, romantic moments and comedy - all constitute V Ravichandran films are missing in `Mallikarjuna'.
In fact this is a serious subject - in the double roles the enactment is serious situation for the protagonist. Then how does it attract his fans, producer should have given a thought.
The landlord and man with equality in thoughts Mallikarjuna (V Ravichandran) although not studied law knows how to give verdict that is acceptable to all. His brother in law Vishakanta (Ashish Vidyarthi) is a strong opponent and oozing out venom every now and then. In the missing case of goddess gold ornaments Mallikarjuna suspects a servant. That leads to a costly decision by Mallikarjuna as the servant commit suicide. For the loss of a son, servant mother asks for justice with Vishakanta to her side.
Mallikarjuna studying the situation asks his son Soorya (V Ravichandran again) to serve as an alternative son. Developments further make Soorya to take a firm decision to expose Vishakanta who is the real barricade for peace loving village.
This is not a fitting role for V Ravichandran. The hairstyle for Mallikarjuna is disturbing to his acting. Anger is not seen properly at places where it was required. As Soorya he looks good but his costumes, ironed ones even when he is looking after cowshed is beyond imagination.
Sada role is not strong enough. In the two songs also she has not delivered the romantic moments. Ashish Vidyarthi, Hema Chaudhary, Ramesh Bhat are convincing in their roles.
SA Rajakumar knowing well that V Ravichandran films should contain melodious and peppy songs fails to deliver. GSV Seetharam as cameraman has captured the villages and interiors of the house very well.
Remake makers should revive! A decade old subjects not hold good precisely now is that they should understand.
Score - 5/10
