THE VILLIAN
Prem had
everyone's expectations up when he got a casting coup with Shivarajkumar and
Sudeep in one film. The Villain shows how he had to tread carefully since he
had two superstars and their fan bases to cater to. The film has enough songs,
dialogues, fights and cheekiness to ensure both the fan groups are appeased.
But, is the narrative treading on thin ice?
The story begins on a rather dramatic note that deals with a
couple that has a husband who is known to play Ravana on screen, his pious
Rama-worshipping wife and their son, who is confused whose ideologies work
better. The little son is told that in today's world on needs to not just have
Rama's discipline and dedication but also Ravana's tact. This sets the tone for
the film. The two lead characters are poles apart. While Shivarajkumar's Ram
has a heart governing him, while Sudeep's Ram is cerebral and ambitious beyond
reason. What happens when the paths of these two cross?
The Villain is not the edgy thriller. Instead, it is every
bit the commercial film that needs action, comedy, romance and many songs. It
is three hours long and one can question whether this long screen time was
required. The two lead actors have interesting mannerisms and give their fans a
lot of moments to whistle. Though, one might end up feeling underwhelmed by the
end of the three hours. Given the scope and the canvas, one might have expected
more, but there are many scenes that leaves one feeling shortchanged.
The film has some laudable moments. Shivarajkumar's song with
six heroines is a treat. In one scene that is supposed to be in Sri Lanka,
there is a Kannada board saying Ranatunga Tea Stall, which does get a few
giggles. Small moments like these are laudable. The mother sentiment that Prem
is known for is found aplenty in the film. One might question Amy Jackson's
casting as she seems uneasy in a few scenes, but Rakshitha Prem's dubbing does
add some emotional credibility to her performance.
The Villain has the formulaic elements that one expects in
Prem's films, but are they in the right measure is questionable. Though, for
fans of the two superstars and the director, there is enough to cheer about in
the film.
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