Ponniyin Selvan: I (PS I) Movie Review

Story

Emperor Sundara Chola’s (Prakash Raj) health is deteriorating thus necessitating a new leader to the dynasty. Aditha Karikalan (Chiyaan Vikram) is the crown prince of dynasty who starts invading the regions of the North along with his friend Vallavarayan Vandhiyathevan(Karthi). Sundara Chola has also another son, Arunmozhi Varman (Jayam Ravi) and a daughter, Kundavi (Trisha). Besides them, there is also Madhuranthakudu (Rehman), who is powerful in empire vying for the throne conspiring with Periya Pazhuvettariyar (Sarath Kumar). Where do Nandhini (Aishwarya Rai) fit in this? How does these conspiracies get resolved forms the storyline.

The film’s biggest plus point is it stays faithful to the epic novel, without diminishing the novel’s essence. Karthi bags entertaining and meaty role, and his character evokes good laughs. The actor has performed quite well catching audiences attention whenever he appears on screen.

Aishwarya Rai has bagged another significant role in this Mani Ratnam directorial, and the actress does it with perfection. Jayam Ravi plays titular role, and he seem to get more role in second part. He performs well in his characterization. Vikram leaves his mark in his style while Trisha gets into the princess role with ease looks beautiful. Sarath Kumar once again proves his acting prowess.

The action sequences especially between Karthi and Jayam Ravi catches our attention. There are some moments that are very interesting and engaging. The Part 1 also ends on an interesting note with a hint of twist in sequel.

The film’s screenplay gets confusing at times with too many characters and subplots. The action blocks come in quickly and they don’t make much impact on the emotional content of story. The first half of the movie goes on a slow pace although second half is much better.

Technicalities

Made on a high budget, PS1 production values are remarkable. AR Rahman’s soundtrack are a major plus, and the background score complements the screenplay. There are some decent VFX-heavy and visuals catches your attention. Thota Tharani’s art work definitely adds attention. Screenplay could be little better while editing is below par.

Ponniyin Selvan has a good plotline, and it gets royal treatment with every frame looking rich. The film stays faithful to its remake, and it deserves a watch for the wonderful performances. However, the screenplay could have been much exciting to appeal to more section of audiences. The climax makes it up however with a good twist making us wonder what they have in store for the sequel.

Rating :-  3/5