Paayum Puli Review
Director: Suseenthiran
Cast: Vishal, Samuthirakani, Kajal, Soori
If you are expecting a gripping family action entertainer from Suseenthiran-Vishal combo who gave us that gritty Pandiyanadu, their latest is nowhere near it. Paayum Puli is a predictable concoction of a cop story mixed with brother sentiments and the usual commercial trappings of Tamil cinema.
Jayaseelan (Vishal) is an undercover encounter specialist who is on a mission to eliminate a gang in Madurai who are extorting money from rich businessmen and later killing them. A senior officer who kills the gang leader Bhavani’s brother is killed in front of the public and soon Jayaseelan shoots almost all the members of the gang. But who is the king- pin to the nefarious activities in the city? It is the suspense element as a cat and mouse game ensues.
The major problem with the film is its first half, and unlike all Suseenthiran films, the romance between the lead pair of Jayaseelan and Soumya (Kajal Aggrwal) falls flat and in-between Soori as a constable tries desperately to provide comedy. Kajal’s character is badly written and she sleep-walks with no expression or involvement. And unlike in other Suseenthiran films, the romance here sticks out like a sore thumb.
But despite its obvious flaws, Paayum Puli is far from unwatchable due to the second half. At best, it’s a satisfying watch. Just don’t go in with high expectations. Vishal is terrific and convincing as a cop, and is the pick of the lot. Samuthirakani as the pivot around which the film revolves is not convincing. What’s missing here is strong characterisation.
There are far too many songs in the first half and they act like speed breakers. D Imman’s hummable number is Silukku Marame.. song, which has been picturised well. A big plus is Velraj’s camera especially the night affects shots.
On the whole, Paayum Puli is not racy enough, but a passable template formula film, which is only 2 hours and 15 minutes.
