Ponniyin Selvan: Part One

Perhaps no Indian film released in 2022 sans RRR and KGF2 has arrived in theatres with the ungodly hype that accompanied Mani Ratnam's "Ponniyin Selvan I". Based on the cult 1955 book series by Kalki Krishnamurthy, many icons like MGR and Kamal Hassan have attempted to recreate the magnum opus on screen but it took a visionary of Mani Ratnam's caliber to finally bring the project to fruition. With an ensemble cast and an exceptional technical crew backing him, the master director weaves his magic wand to create an immensely enjoyable period spectacle, albeit with its shares of minor bumps and flaws.

Set in the 10th century during the times when the Chola dynasty ruled over most of South India, Karthi stars as "Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan", commander to the crown prince Aditha Karikaalan (Vikram), and his journey to fulfill a set of tasks his liege lord sets out for him. Assigned with dismantling a seditious conspiracy brewing within the kingdom, the steadfast Vandiyadevan embarks on an arduous journey, with aid of the princess Kundavai (Trisha) as well as Karikaalan's younger brother, the titular "Ponniyin Selvan" (meaning Son of the river Ponni, played by Jayam Ravi).

Focussing more on drama elements and political machinations and in setting up the immense world detailed in the books, "Ponniyin Selvan" is devoid of the large canvas action sequences and mass moments of typical masala-period pieces like the Bahubali franchise and RRR. Case in point, one of the most enthralling sequences in the film was the confrontation between Trisha's "Kundavai" and the primary antagonist, the scheming "Nandini", played by Aishwarya Rai with each actress oozing menace and gravitas, aided by the excellent dialogues crafter by screenwriters Kumaravel and Jayamohan.

A R Rahman's music is unfortunately largely pedestrian with only the BGM composed for Trisha's character creating any real impact. The film also indulges in setting up too many things for its second part and meanders pointlessly for large portions post the interval. The climax showdown which was intended as a brutal skirmish doesn't come across convincingly, reducing the impact of the immersive politicking and mind games that led up to it. In short, PS-1 scores high in its drama elements while struggling to be convincing during its stunt sequences. Nevertheless, the painstaking worldbuilding, its clutch of ace performances and the level of political intrigue Mani Ratnam has managed to infuse into the storytelling make PS-1 a recommended watch in theatres! Cannot wait for the second part, set to release in 2023!

There are three types of audiences for this film in the country: those who have read the books, those who haven't, and those who are familiar with the history of the Chola Kings.

The books were written 70 years ago as a serialised format for a magazine, based on the characters and events of the Chola kingdom. They include fictional characters and dramatic elements for intrigue.

The movie's screenplay is adapted from the books, with necessary changes to appeal to today's audience, similar to adaptations like "Lord of the Rings," "Harry Potter," and "Game of Thrones." However, the mentioned books take place in a fantasy world with miracles and non-human characters, while "Ponniyin Selvan" is a historical fiction set in reality.

The screenplay, written by Mani Ratnam, Jaya Mohan, and Kumaravel, feels flat and confusing for a two-part movie. It gives the impression of a rushed eight-episode TV show re-edited into a two-part film, which is very different from "Baahubali."

Vikram's portrayal of Aditha Karikalan is flawed, with overacting.

Trisha's performance as Kundavai is unbelievably phenomenal. Her look and acting are terrific.

Aishwarya Rai and Karthi get to play the most interesting characters in the movie. Aishwarya looks convincing as Nandini, albeit slightly older, and her performance is okay, but it could have been extraordinary.

Karthi doesn't meet my expectations as Vanthiyadevan.

Jayam Ravi's portrayal of Arun Moli Varman is a surprise. His performance is very good, and although I was initially disappointed with his appearance, by the end of the movie, I accepted him.

The same goes for Aishwarya Lakshmi. Many of her scenes from the book are missing, and Prakash Raj as Sundara Chola doesn't fit the role.

Jayaram as Nambi is fantastic.

Sharath Kumar, Parthiban, Kishore, Mohan Raman, Prabhu, Rahman, and Jayachitra are perfectly cast.

Shobitha as Vanathi appears very artificial, but her dancing skills are commendable.

Manimeghalai is absent from the film.

The locations feel real and exotic, while the sets and props transport us back to the 10th century. The costumes, accessories, and makeup are so well done that we forget the actors and see the real Cholas. The visual effects blend seamlessly with reality in many scenes.

The sound effects are of high quality.

The music sets the mood of the film, and the songs flow well, except for "Chola Chola." However, "Ponni Nadhi" and "Alai Kadal" are great additions to your playlist.

The Devaralanatam sequence is perfectly shot and choreographed, but "Sol" is cut out.

The cinematography by Ravi Varman is outstanding, creating world-class visuals, with only a few shots falling short.

It would be better if both movies were re-edited and released on an OTT platform as a mini-series with eight one-hour episodes.

Great screenplay, great visuals, beautiful actors, great performances and really soulful music. An experience through and through, the old mani ratnam is back and this time he has something to prove. Aishwarya and Vikram proves why they are one of the finest actors that have graced Indian cinema and how experience matters the most. Every actor plays their part well, it's such a visual treat.

Maybe the only nitpick that i have is the length, gosh this movie is too detailed and lengthy, but don't let that inhibit you from watching it. One of the finest historical period dramas to come out of India.

Overall A Period Action Film that had potential but ends up as an underwhelming watch!

Interesting storyline with good music and visuals but is wasted by flat narration with absolutely no highs/emotional connect needed for this genre. Lack of characterization and slow plot. Could have better screenplay. For me, #Trisha, #Karthi & #ChiyaanVikram steal the show 👏

Especially Karthi, his one liners are so good 😄

TrishaKrishnan with her beauty & performance shines 👌

ChiyaanVikram was 🔥🔥🔥

Worth to watch if u know the story you will easily understand Chola Dynasty. Great way of portraying history. A must watch film.

I am the biggest fan of Maniratnam. I was so eagerly waiting for this film. I watched it on the first day itself. This film needed a better hero than Karthi. It was hard to take him seriously as a picaresque swashbuckling warrior. He lacked the physical frame and the acting chops to pull it off. Trisha looked gorgeous. The sets and visuals were also lavish. Songs and background score were unremarkable at best. Has Rehman declined this badly? He used to bring his A game for Manirathnam movies. I wouldn't really recommend this film.

So what really went wrong? A lack of narrative punctuation. It lacks those memorable and spectacular scenes that ties it all together. The narration is quite flat and only the occasional beautiful visual spruced me up as a viewer. Remember the Udal Mannukku monologue in Iruvar? That 3 minute 24 second clip on Youtube was more innovative and had more swag than this whole film.

But I am so glad the film is a big hit and it is a pleasure to see your favorite director smiling and celebrating. Mani sir really stuck his neck out with Iruvar and Kannathil Muthamitaal. He deserves this success. Bravo, Mani sir.