Cast: Kamal Haasan, Prakash Raj, Trisha, Sampath and Madhushalini
Director: Rajesh M Selva
Rating: 3.5 stars
Kamal Haasan’s new film Cheekati Rajyam has been directed by debutant Rajesh M. Selva while Haasan himself has provided the screenplay. The action thriller with a police backdrop has been inspired by the French film Nuit Blanche (Sleepless Night). Diwakar (Kamal Haasan) is an undercover cop in the narcotics department. He stays with his son while his wife lives separately. Diwakar and his colleagues wants to trap drug dealer Vithal Rao (Prakash Raj). In an encounter, he gets nearly 10 kg of cocaine and plans to nab Vithal Rao. Meantime Vithal Rao kidnaps Diwakar’s son and asks him to handover the drugs.
Meanwhile, another cop, Mallika (Trisha), suspects Diwakar and follows him. To make matters more complicated, another cop and a mafia gang are also looking out for the bag of cocaine. Everyone reaches Vithal Rao’s nightclub and the story unfolds form there on.Director Rajesh deserves kudos for his narration… one does not need a comic relief or a song while watching the film. There are a few comic scenes but they are all part of the story. The plot has been well adapted from the French film and suits the local scenario. Most of the film is in the nightclub and the director has pulled it off well. Kamal Haasan’s screenplay is gripping.
Performance wise, Kamal Haasan once again comes out on top and steals the show with his portrayal of a cop. He is also outstanding in the action scenes. Trisha, too, is perfect as a cop and it is a fresh departure from her usual glamour roles. Madhushalini has a short role and she looks suitably cute and glamorous. The other highlight of the film is Prakash Raj, who plays the baddie once again. Kishore as another cop supports the lead character well, as does Sampath, who plays another villain. Technically the film is good. The camerawork is fine and the actions scenes have been choreographed very well. The background music of Ghibran is another highlight. Though the second half is a bit slow, overall the movie is good as it is a nice departure from the regular masala films.
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