SOODHU KAVVUM ("KIDNAPPERS IN TOWN")

May 1, 2013

Cast: Vijay Sethupathy, Sanchita Shetty, Radha Ravi, M.S Bhaskar.

Director: Nalan Kumaraswamy.

Nowadays when a film comes along with Vijay Sethupathy as the lead we have started expecting something different, and that is just what you get with Soodhu Kavvum.

Das (Vijay Sethupathy) is a middle aged man with a mental disorder (somewhat a funny version of John Nash in “A beautiful mind” you could say) who is a “professional” kidnapper with a rule list on how to kidnap. He keeps talking to Shalu(the imaginary character that only he can see). He takes 3 jobless youngsters along with him and after a series of petty kidnappings they hit jackpot when they are offered 2 crore rupees for kidnapping the minister’s son.

Scripted and directed by Nalan Kumarasamy, Soodhu Kavvum is a laugh riot with the situations in the screenplay being the main comedian, which is sort of a once in a blue moon event in Tamil cinema.

With no leading actors from the Tamil industry, except for M.S Bhaskar and Radha Ravi doing minor roles, Nalan Kumarasamy shows his mettle extracting solid performances from the entire cast.

Vijay Sethupathy once again does a fine job, but what is to be appreciated more is the fact that he has allowed the director and the screenplay dictate the course of the film. Though it is apparent from the screenplay that Vijay Sethupathy is the main character he never really hogs the limelight. He looks comfortable and happy letting the other actors have some of the best dialogues and scenes in the film.

The praiseworthy editing (considered Kumarasamy’s forte), catchy BGM and wonderful cinematography involving certain moving shots and slow motions spice up the film really well. Every element like thrill, suspense, humor and tension, to name a few, is given in right doses.

But the USP of the film is undoubtedly the tactful and brilliant screenplay that provides laughter throughout the film (even in tense situations) which keeps you engaged all the while. It would not be surprising if Soodhu Kavvum gets repeat audience especially as it’s summer vacation.

Iam giving a 3.5/5 for Soodhu Kavvum. Change is always good and this film is testimony to that statement! Soodhu Kavvum has finesse written all over it.Make sure you watch it!

Rating Scale (Out of 5)

Less than 2                   -           Unwatchable.

2 to 2.25                      -           Below average.

2.5 to 2.75                    -           Average.

3 to 3.25                      -           Good.

3.5 to 3.75                   -           Really Good.

4 to 4.25                      -           Great.

4.5 and above               -           Extraordinary.