Aaitha Ezhuthu

Cast: Madhavan, Surya, Siddharth, Bharathy Raja, Trisha, Meera Jasmine, Esha Deol, Sriman
Language: Tamil
Banner: Madras Talkies Ltd.
Director: Mani Ratnam
Producer: Madras Talkies Ltd.
Camera: Ravi K Chandran
Music: A.R.Rahman
Year: 2004

Mani Ratnam’s latest flick Aaitha Ezhuthu has enough substance for the mass audience - popular stars, excellent music, brilliant camera, striking stunts and an interesting plot. What more you expect from a film?

The movie begins with Inba (Madhavan), right-hand to a power hungry politician – minister (Bharathy Raja) following motor cyclist Michael (Surya) along the Marina Beach Road in Chennai. In the meantime the young lovers Arjun and Meera (Siddharth and Trisha) plunge into the scene. As Inba fires bullets on Michael, a shocked Arjun interferes to save Michael and the story of the three young men unfolds. Their change, their conflict, and their interactions with each other form the crux of the film. The film examines the lives of these three men, their romantic interests and their families and the complex relationships between individuals who are very different, yet so similar.

Mani must be credited for telling a story of three youths whose characterization has been well etched. Lots of homework has gone into the roles which many a youth would identify.

Though the screenplay is taut and slick with brilliant camera by Ravi K.Chandran, the meticulously crafted sets of Sabu Cyril, background score of A.R.Rahman, the film must be credited to the two heroes - Madhavan and Surya. Their contribution as actors has lifted the film in many parts. It’s quite difficult to say who has done better. Toughie roles have been done by both, but the difference here is the intensity that these actors emote on screen. Madhavan in the tough-guy role is spectacular. Surya has the youthfulness and that rare combination of strength and vulnerability to pull off the rebellious college student. Siddharth is just right for the happy go lucky youngster who undergoes a life changing experience. Needless to say Mani has given an outstanding new villain to Tamil cinema - Bharathy Raja. He has given a commendable performance. The three girls Meera - Esha - Trisha too have very good meaty roles. Undoubtedly it’s Meera who steals the show while Esha who could have done a better job stumbles in many places. Trisha fits the role to a T. The overdose of politics in the climax jars the narration. The stunt scenes are a treat to watch.

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