Aaru Review

Remakes have been the flavor of the season. Almost every one of them, including the very same Suriya's Ghajini, has worked wonders at the box office.

So naturally Aaru comes to Telugu with lot of expectations and the film has its moments. It is a film of street violence and the soft underbelly  of the political system.

Whether one likes it or not, a hero is compelled to act in commercial masala and mass entertainers. He has to appeal to all segments. Unless a hero does it, he is not seen to have made it. If you can understand this logic,you will not be surprised why Surya, who has made his mark through slick thrillers like Khakka, Khakka and Ghajini had done a rough - hewn character in this mass entertainer. 

Aaru belongs to a different genre, something that may not appeal to the critics but may just come with a strong performance at the box office ---for, action and gritty sentiments work with the public.

Aaru (Surya) does anything for his mentor Vishwanathan (Ashish Vidyarthi). Surya and his gang, picked from the mean slums, are, however, essentially good hearted. But Vishwanathan is venal. He uses Aaru and his gang to settle scores with political rival Reddy (Jai Prakash Reddy). Aaru who sees his close gang men lose their life wakes up to the chicanery of Vishwanathan. The end is about how get his own back on the corrupt politician. In between, a college girl Maha (Trisha) also falls in love with him.

The film's strength is Surya and his energetic performance. Despite the glitches in the story, he gives a sincere performance.Surya too keeps you riveted to the seats with another wholesome effort.Asish Vidyarthi goes over the top time and again. But he is a regular in such roles. Trisha has a simple role and does not overcomplicate it.

The story may not be the most new, but the scenes have a raciness and keeps you interested.

Devi Sri Prasad has tried to get the local beats. Some songs are rhythmic. Priyan's camera work is efficient.

Hari has a way with masala entertainers.