An outstanding film. It is been a long time since we have seen such a fine period film with good music, a story and one of the best performances in recent times. Siddarth and Prithviraj are students of Nasser in a pre-independence time when stage plays used to rule as they were the only form of entertainment. They are close friends and infant Siddarth treats Prithviraj as an elder brother. Trouble starts when Nasser sees the brilliant sparks in Siddarth and offers him the lead role in the play. The rest of the film deals with jealousy, betrayal, love and hatred between these two leads. This is a career best performance from Siddarth who excels in every frame. Prithviraj deserves credit for accepting such a role where he has to let Siddarth act better than him. He has done a fantastic job too. The biggest surprise is Vedhika who has come up with an award deserving performance. Her introduction scene where she sings and dances is natural. Hope she gets the recognition that is long due. There is also pretty face Anaika Soti, who can act too! The other real hero is AR Rahman who mesmerizes you with his period songs. Nirav Shah’s camera is another big asset. All credit should go to the brilliance of director Vasanthabalan who has once again come up with a film that simply blows you away. The only downside are some extended scenes in the second half and a romantic dream song that seems out of place. The grandeur can be enjoyed more in the bigger screen.
