Mambattiyan Review

It has been some time since Prashanth was seen on the silver screen. He is back with 'Mambattiyan', remake of a film that spurred his father Thyagarajan to new highs.

The decision to choose a story that propelled his dad to stardom over a couple of decades ago, would have not been a difficult one but it remains to be seen if it has the same impact as the original ('Malaiyur Mambattiyan' featuring Thyagarajan).

It is a star-studded cast which includes Meera Jasmine, Vadivelu, Prakash Raj, Mumaith Khan, Kota Srinivasa Rao, Vijayakumar, Manobala, Kalairani and Riyaz Khan.

The story goes like this: A landlord (Kota Srinivasa Rao) rules a village in western Tamil Nadu. When he is opposed by Mambattiyan's father (Vijayakumar), the 'jameen' kills him. Coming to know of this, Mambattiyan kills the influential person and those in support of him.

A group of youngsters in the village join hands with Mambattiyan. They lead a life in a forest. By robbing the rich and distributing the wealth to the poor, Mambattiyan becomes the local Robin Hood.

Meanwhile, police forces led by DIG Ranjith (Prakash Raj) go from pillar to post to nab Mambattiyan. This is the start of a cat and mouse game between the two. Also, Mambattiyan has romance in the form of Kannathal (Meera Jasmine).

Prashanth lends solidity to the character. From his tough looks to the emotions he spills on screen, the actor announces his comeback in a big way. Giving him good company is Meera Jasmine. Vadivelu's role doesn't have much of an impact. Prakash Raj is good choice as a police officer.

Thyagarajan, who donned the title role in the original has taken care of the story, screenplay, dialogue, production and direction, and must be said has tried to do his best.

Camera work by Shaji Kumar is worth a mention and the music is scored by S Thaman, editing is Donmax, special effects by Prashanth himself.