“Rathnam: An Action Drama Review”
Cast: Vishal, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Samuthirakani, Yogi Babu, Gautham Vasudev Menon
Director: Hari
Producers: Kaarthekeyan Santhanam, Zee Studios
Music Director: Devi Sri Prasad
Cinematographer: M. Sukumar
Editor: T.S. Jay
Hari, known for his expertise in mass-oriented films, collaborates with Vishal for the action-packed thriller “Rathnam.” Their previous collaborations, “Bharani” and “Pooja,” were blockbuster hits, raising expectations for their third venture together.
Synopsis:
Rathnam (Vishal), a trusted ally of Chittoor MLA Panneer Swamy (Samuthirakani), finds himself entangled in various conflicts. His life takes a turn when he encounters Mallika (Priya Bhavani Shankar) and becomes embroiled in a mission to protect her from unknown assailants. As Rathnam delves deeper into the mystery, risking his life for Mallika, the plot unfolds with twists and revelations.
Highlights:
Vishal delivers a commendable performance, showcasing his prowess in action sequences and captivating the audience with his portrayal of Rathnam. The film features well-choreographed action scenes that cater to the mass audience, complemented by Priya Bhavani Shankar and Samuthirakani’s convincing performances. Devi Sri Prasad’s music adds nostalgic charm with memorable compositions reminiscent of his earlier works.
Criticisms:
While Hari’s films typically follow a formulaic pattern, his strength lies in engaging narration. However, “Rathnam” falls short in sustaining audience interest, with sluggish pacing and lackluster moments. The second half, dominated by relentless action, lacks the depth needed to balance the narrative, resulting in a tedious viewing experience. Despite attempts to inject emotional depth, certain character dynamics fail to resonate, hampering the overall impact. The underutilization of Yogi Babu and Murali Sharma further detracts from the film’s potential.
Technical Analysis:
Devi Sri Prasad’s musical prowess shines through, complementing the visuals, while M. Sukumar’s cinematography captures the essence of the action sequences effectively. However, subpar editing leads to prolonged scenes, diminishing the film’s overall impact. Director Hari’s inability to infuse the narrative with his trademark entertainment factor leaves a void, making “Rathnam” a lackluster addition to his repertoire.
Verdict:
“Rathnam” struggles to strike the right emotional chord, despite Vishal’s charismatic performance and well-executed action sequences. While it offers sporadic moments of excitement, the film ultimately fails to deliver a cohesive viewing experience. With its sluggish pace and lack of engaging storytelling, “Rathnam” falls short of expectations, making it a tepid recommendation for audiences seeking a compelling action drama.