Vellithirai is a remake of Malayalam Movie Udayananu Tharam and has shades of Steve Martin’s Bowfinger in its climax scenes. Yet this movie is worth watching for the brilliant roles of Prakash Raj ably supported and underplayed by Prithivi Raj, the duo who gave "Mozi" which was a stunning hit. The other cast of the movie are Gopika, Sarath Babu, Praksah Pothen, M.S.Bhaskar. The music is scored by G.Prakash Kumar and the film is directed by Viji.
The story is about two individuals wanting to become successful but through opposite means. Kannaiyan, the middle aged, potbellied and an obscure individuals obsessed to become a superstar by hook or crook, steals the script from his own Friend, saravanan in a stealthy manner and does become a super star. On the other hand, his Friend, Saraann, a honest but struggling Assistant Director, despite having an original script written by himself, finds it impossible to breakthrough the wicked mold of the system and become successful. Consequently, he is pushed into economic hardships and psychological distress.
Prakash Raj plays the role of Kannaiyan effortlessly. Whether as a wicked friend of Saravanan, transformed superstar in the name of Thalapathy Dilipkanth, he fits the characters to the core. Except in one or two scenes, as the interview to publications where he overdoes himself, the rest of his role is a delight to watch.
Prithivi Raj expresses his honesty, sincerity and distress all through his eyes. His character is reflective in nature and his expressions are an asset to add to this reflection. Gopika in the role of a leading actress and yet a loving wife, does justice to the role. As the comedy is built around the main script, it not only produces peels of laughter but also makes one think.
What makes this movie different from others? The answer is that the movie reflects the state of cinema in general and Tamil Cinema in particular. It bring out the sordid reality that comprise however evil it is, it still rules roost of the day. The movie may not be a master piece but for that reason one should not shun from watching it.
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