Massu Engira Masilamani

I truly don't know what is the original title. 'Mass' or 'Masss' or 'Massu' or 'Massu Engira Masalimani'. Since 'Mangatha' I haven't seen any Venkat Prabhu's films. He has lost his midas touch. His films are used to be youthful and fun, but not anymore. This was a different than his usual theme, but did not deliver. Particularly, I hated the graphics. Those CGI characters ruined the film in the initial part, I thought it was a very cheap thing I ever seen in a big production film. The action sequences were so stupid as well. The comedies were okay, but still it had lots of references of old films. So you can't enjoy them if you are not familiar with the original.

Surya is a very dedicated actor that you would find in Kollywood today, but the filmmakers are not using that properly. Compared to any other actors, he does many varieties of films. I watched it only for him and nothing else. I appreciate the experimental theme, but they did not get a better screenplay. The storyline looked decent, especially the flashback, but did not develop well. Like what the title hints, it was too much mass which suits better for Tollywood fans. Might be Surya fans or Venkat's would like it, sadly I'm not one. Surely you will have some laughs, other than that this is not good. So skipping it is not a bad option.

3/10

Suriya and Venkat Prabhu merge in this sort of spooky tale of twists, now both of them needing a proper hit at the BO. Venkat and co announces that there won't be an 'item' number with a scantily clad chick like his previous films.Shortly after that, 'Masss' gets granted an 'U' certificate, you wonder if the director had compensated anything script wise to bring in the family audiences flocking. Songs also seem alright ,almost situational, giving fans and cinema goers unrest on whether this could be one of those experimental movies.

Venkat and team answers all doubts and critics in a such a fashion, commercial directors might have started taking notes. Suriya being the refined actor he is, takes center stage acting his heart out on screen. Turning 40 this year, it doesn't add up to his youthful looks and brilliant physique. Suriya's acting prowess seems second to none as he single-handedly holds the film playing a dual role one a grifter and another unexpected surprise role. 200% effort from Suriya, explains why himself and Vikram chase concept driven scripts, they are the only ones ready to put so much effort into one film.

Yuvan Shankar Raja also nails big time on the background score whether its the feet tapping 'Conman theme' or the darker, thrilling theme. With the film having some emotional content and sentiments, Yuvan adds some magic touches to compliment them. Songs are quite satisfying on the whole with the added visuals.

Speaking of the visuals, R.D. Rajasekhar proves to be the second hero behind the camera with extraordinary lighting and angles for an Indian film. He just might pick up a couple of awards for his contribution.Aiding the camera-work is the nicely done sets by art director Rajeevan, in the opening song as well as in the MJ tribute number.

The screenplay presented by the director is pretty new to Indian audience and will be the highlight as Masss is cut almost inch perfect by editor Praveen, serving the right amounts of the action and drama. The movie runs seamlessly from the turning point to interval,pre- climax and the simple ending. Despite that the flashback could have been shorter, as they slowed down Venkat's good narration.

Comical add ons by Premji and Sriman, Karunas and Rajendran will be much appreciated as they are subtle and effective. Premji also comes up with perhaps his best act on screen. Heroine roles in a VP movie always are justified but short and cameo orientated. Nayanthara and Pranitha both are gorgeous looking and pushed astray by Suriya's one man army of a a show. Perhaps the director might give more screen time to heroines in his future scripts.

Masss is a sure treat for fans of all ages, expect kids to fill up seats in the cinema hall this summer. A rare occasion when a big star's film is out. Clean, well cut, exciting twists, zero hip shaking glamor, kid friendly almost masterpiece. Masss , the 3 S's for; story,screenplay and Suriya. ( 3.75/5 )

Genre: suspense/horror/action

Story: A conman(suriya) finds that he can see spirits after so close to death in an accident.He uses this power to get money .Finally there comes a plot twist and it makes as revenge drama.why and how is to be watched on big screen.

Performances: Suriya steals the show.. Tried and succeeded at mannerism for a suspense role and dialogue delivery is near perfect.Rest of the cast has nothing much to do. Premji didn't annoy with his dialogues this time and does a decent comedy liners.Parthiban had some witty comic one liners as well.

Technicalities: First thing to praise is background score BGM was awesome and yuvan have done it yet again after anjaan.RD Rajasekar has worked some magic to portray suriya as stylish and done wonders in visuals.Editing was near perfect as well. making was decent enough and songs were adequate enough and nothing extra ordinary.

Verdict: hit or miss?

Former suits best for the film.

Massu Engira Masilamani (2016) is a movie that swings wildly between being engaging and outright exhausting. I went into it expecting a quirky mix of horror and comedy, and while it delivered on entertainment in parts, I couldn't shake the feeling that it overstayed its welcome. For a film with an interesting premise and a charismatic lead like Suriya, it somehow manages to lose itself in unnecessary detours and convoluted storytelling.

On the positive side, the movie does pack in some fun moments. The spooky elements, while not groundbreaking, are cleverly executed and provide some genuinely enjoyable scenes. Suriya's performance is a major highlight-he brings charm, energy, and just the right amount of seriousness to carry the film, even when the script falters. The message about redemption and standing up for justice is heartfelt, and I appreciated how the film tied that into its narrative. Plus, the last act really picks up, delivering a mix of emotional payoff and high-stakes action that almost makes you forget the slog leading up to it.

But that's the issue - almost. The film is far too lengthy for its own good. It spends so much time meandering with subplots and comic relief that it doesn't get to the point until well past the halfway mark. I found myself checking the time during the first half, waiting for things to click into place. When the story does finally kick into gear, it's good-but by then, I felt a bit worn out.

Another problem is the way new elements are introduced seemingly out of nowhere. At times, I couldn't tell if I was supposed to be shocked, confused, or both. It's not just surprising - it's disorienting. The convoluted narrative doesn't help either; with so many moving parts, the story often feels like it's trying to do too much, leaving some characters and plot points underdeveloped.

Ultimately, Massu Engira Masilamani is a mixed bag. There's enough entertainment to make it a decent one-time watch, but its pacing and cluttered execution weigh it down. For me, it's a film that could've been great if only it had been tighter and more focused.

This Venkat Prabhu's sixer is a complete one man show both behind as well as on the canvas.While on screen, it's Suriyas' all the way where as the captain, Mr.Prabhu, carried it on his shoulders being behind the camera. Screenplay is very good with a lot of twists all through but was not very gripping in the first half, giving way to unnecessary comic and song sequences. But still, one doesn't get bored of anything as the director incorporated a lot of references in very clever manner with which one is kept busy thinking about it, the best one being in the second half. Production values are really good, the cinematography is just enough to say so. Editing was just okay, could have been better. All the supporting cast did their part. Nayanathara had a very small role though. The film has ample of comedy, frightening situations, action scenes, awesome BGM, setiment and supernatural spirits. It's a complete entertainer which one can watch with their family. That sums it up, this 'Masss' is Suriya & Prabhu's F**king game!