Rollicking fun as blockbuster comedy smiles for the camera
MUNDASUPATTI (9/10)
DIRECTOR Ram decided to adapt his own short film to a full-length feature after noting the success of Kaadhalil Sodhupuvadhu Yeppadi . He cast Vishnu of Vennilaa Kabadi fame in the lead, giving him the first comedy role of his career.
Nandita plays the female lead, supported by Kaali Venkat (from the cast of the original short film) and Raamdhaas in his first major role.
The film has had a hugely successful run, mainly because of the freshness of the concept and the unique brand of comedy. Set in the early 1980s,
Mundasupatti tells the story of a struggling photographer, Gopi (Vishnu), who tries to eke out a living in a small town outside an area called Mundasupatti.
Because of an unfortunate incident in history, the people of Mundasupatti believe anyone who is photographed will soon die. Gopi is, therefore, intrigued when the leaders of Mundasupatti call him to their area for an assignment.
Accompanied by his assistant, Azhagumani (Venkat), Gopi reluctantly goes there. He is delighted to find Kalaivaani (Nandita) living there , but things go horribly wrong for Gopi and Azhagumani — with hilarious consequences.
It is difficult to believe this is Vishnu’s comedy debut. His comedic sense and timing are those of a seasoned actor.
Venkat provides brilliant support as his assistant. Raamdhaas is in a delightful role that gets better and better as the film proceeds.
Nandita handles her role superbly.
The freshness of the concept and the humour ensure that there is hardly a dull moment. Apart from a slowing of the pace early in the second half, the screenplay is without blemish.
The script is punctuated with all types of humour that is supported by some side-splitting physical comedy.
The movie is complemented by playback songs by Sean Roldan — there is wide variety in the style of songs and my favourite is the beautiful love ballad Kaadhal Kanave.
PV Sankar’s cinematography is a sheer delight to watch. Apart from unusual angles and lighting techniques, Sankar also makes clever use of the fade-to-white technique.
Leo John Paul’s editing shows international class and his is definitely a name one should watch out for in the future.
Ram has taken an offbeat theme and turned it into riveting entertainment with a relatively new cast. He has a good visual sense and looks set to become one of Kodambakkam’s successful directors.
Mundasupatti is a refreshingly different film with a curious mixture of adventure, romance and comedy.