Kanguva Review

Kanguva Review:  Suriya & Siva shine in generic but technically excellent spectacle

'Kanguva' has been carrying huge expectations since its quite a long time since Suriya gave a hit in theaters.  Director Siruthai Siva too has been burdened with the 'Annathe' effect.  Now that the fantasy period drama set in 2024 and 1070 has finally hit the screens worldwide, let's analyze whether all the boxes are checked to emerge an epic box office winner.

'Kanguva' opens In a hightech modern scientific laboratory in the Indo-Russian border where some strange brain experiment is conducted, on a little boy code- named Zeta.   Francis (Suriya) is a bounty hunter in Goa who has broken up with his girlfriend Angela (Disha Patani) who is now his rival in business.  While pursuing one of  his bounties Francis accidently kills him and the strange little boy witnesses it.  Francis feels some innate connection with the boy who keeps on gazing at him admiringly.  The Russian militia catches up and forcefully takes the boy hostage and as he touches Francis the past unfolds.  What is Francis' past life connection to Zeta? Why does Francis want to protect Zeta even though there is no bond?   Who is Kanguva from 1070? What connects him and Francis?.  The rest of the screenplay of 'Kanguva' gives the answers in a spectacular manner.   

Suriya has given his all to bring to life the epic character of 'Kanguva' the leader and protector of the ancient Perumanchi clan.  His majestic body language and impeccable chaste Tamil dialogue delivery are a treat to watch.  The 49 year old is tremendous in the gravity defying high octane action sequences that dominate the running time.  There are also a handful of emotional moments where Suriya stamps his authority as one of the best actors of his generation.  Disha Patani as the hip ex flame of the hero does not get much scope to perform but will satisfy her fans in the song.   Bobby Deol is terrifying as the monstrous villain while Natty Nataraj, Karunaas and Bose Vekat score in their respective scenes.  It's a big fail from Yogi Babu in the comedy department.  Karthi's not so surprising cameo appearance serves only the purpose of a lead up to 'Kanguva 2'.

What works best in 'Kanguva' is the international standard technical work especially showcased in the 3D version.  The CGI world building is solid and the set pieces are breathtaking that are consistent from the first to last frame.    Supreme Sundar has choreographed a handful of edge of the seat action sequences amongst which the one fight where Suriya is not there but his presence is felt, being the major highlight.    The late Milan Fernandez's final work as production designer will remain one of his best.  Similarly the late Nishadh Yusuf deserves special praise for his excellent editing of this complex film. 

As far as the screenplay goes though its generic the emotional drive of the protagonist is transferred adequately on screen.   Some may feel put off by the loudness which is necessary to authenticate the period setting and the war mode.  The boy turning against Suriya with vengeance and his realization of who the hero truly is are two of the best moments in the film.   On the whole one should say that the Suriya- Siva combo hold the film together.

On the downside, 'Kanguva' would have been much better if the characterizations of all the others were written on par with Suriya's.   The film follows the structure of action, action and more action with a few emotions thrown in.  If this order was reversed the film could have risen many notches above what it is now.

Vettri's cinematography is as big a hero as Suriya capturing action that changes once every few seconds without a glitch.  Studio Green's K.E. Gnanavelraja's 2000 Crores confidence  is not unwarranted as 'Kanguva' is on par if not better than the similar genre Indian films that came out in recent times.  Director Siruthai Siva has far exceeded expectations in crafting a technically breathtaking film.  

Verdict : Go for this technically brilliant film that elevates Tamil cinema to the next level