Explosive drama
AJINIKANTH is far more than just an actor.
He is a phenomenon, a brand whose fan following throughout the world is unprecedented.
For many, loyalty to Rajinikanth spells an endorsement of perceiving him as a symbol that exemplifies the Tamil movie industry.
This perception is fuelled by the actor’s real life: his humility, compassion, benevolence, loyalty, professionalism and a record of clean living, giving him cult status in India. Hence, the release of any Rajini movie
Kabali. far surpasses the imagination of many. With all this hype around Kabali, does the movie deliver?
Kabali centres on a turf war between gangsters. Kabaleeshvaran (Rajinikanth) a champion for the cause of the Malayasian Tamil indentured labourers, evolves to be a much-feared don. He is framed by members of an opposing gang and given a 25-year prison sentence.
An aged Kabali returns from prison to settle old scores but fate dictates his future as the ghosts from his past comes back to haunt him.
With the loyalty of his trusted aides Ameer (John Vijay) and Jeeva (Dinesh), Kabali seeks revenge but alarming surprises await him.
Director Ranjith’s collaboration with superstar Rajinikanth generated much hype with pre-release publicity shattering records.
Known to be a brilliant storyteller, Ranjith delivers in Kabali by taking an ordinary story and adeptly handling it to deliver a blockbuster.
Catchy dialogue, a seamless narrative, Pravin’s crisp editing and cinematographer Murali’s clever use of lighting and camera angles accentuate Kabali’s success.
The screenplay lags a bit but Rajini’s superlative display overrides this flaw.
Santosh Narayanan’s background score is especially noteworthy, complementing the screenplay. His songs are already topping charts.
The deliberate attempt to leave out a comedy track further validates the theme.
But the real star of Kabali is undoubtedly superstar Rajinikanth. His charismatic screen presence is electrifying.
As the aging pensive don or dynamic younger Kabali, Rajini’s trademark swagger, mannerisms, stylish dialogue delivery and high-voltage action scenes are a fan’s delight. This coupled with the Tamil patriotism that the film evokes makes Kabali a runaway winner.
Kabali is Rajinikanth’s show alone and he carries it off superbly in a role that suits his age. A film to savour.
– MALA LUTCHMANAN