Watching a Rajinikanth movie is not a cinematic experience that falls strictly within the dictates of a good story, a racy screenplay, great music or whatever else that conventionally makes movies click. The iconic Superstar contributes a certain magic that is hard to explain. It’s more like a mother’s touch to home cooking that simply makes you want more.
With Enthiran, this magic is unabashed and unrelenting from the first frame to the last. Director Shankar not only deviates a great deal from the tried and tested ‘Superstar’ formula by putting the story firmly in the centre, but also presents Rajinikanth in an avatar not seen in a long while.
It’s no secret that he developed his highly-stylised mannerisms to play the antagonist. He excelled in negative roles early on in his career — in classics like Avargal, Moondru Mudichu, Netrikann, and 16 Vayathiniley, but his transition into a mass hero meant toning down all those shenanigans on screen. The audience did get a glimpse of it in Chandramukhi’s ’Vettaiyan Raja’.
But now, in the second half of Enthiran, Shankar unleashes a villain of such megalomaniac proportions that only Rajinikanth could pull off. It ends up being a master-class in theatrical over-expressive villainy that is almost a throwback to the days of M.N.Nambiar and Asokan.
Shankar has managed to successfully walk the tightrope of making the story accessible to the masses and yet not dumbing it down. The narrative of Dr.Vaseegaran, a dedicated robotics scientist, and his humanoid robot Chitti (short for Chittibabu), both vying for the attention of the medical college student Sana (played by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan), is brought out with some soul. In between all the song and dance sequences over the love triangle, Shankar manages to capture the inner turmoil of a robot coming to terms with the rather complicated human emotions of love, hate and betrayal.
There is a parallel storyline of Dr.Vaseegaran’s running feud with his mentor Dr.Bohra (played by Danny Denzongpa), who is clandestinely interested in getting the technical know-how of Chitti to sell his commando bots to an illegal foreign arms dealer. He keeps sabotaging Vaseegaran’s plans of getting Chitti approved for mass production for use by the Indian Army.
The movie does take time to warm up a bit in the first half in introducing the concepts to the audience. But the struggle between a ‘re-programmed’ Chitti and Vaseegaran gets the pulse racing right through the second half, all culminating in a rambunctious climax that is beyond all expectations. There is also a poignant epilogue.
Nearly every technician involved in the movie has brought in his A-game and seems to have set new benchmarks for Indian cinema in general - cinematographer R. Rathnavelu, editor Anthony, art director Sabu Cyril, stunt choreographer Peter Hein, music director A.R.Rahman, lyricists Vairamuthu, Pa.Vijay and Karky, sound engineer Resul Pookutty and costume designer Manish Malhotra. The association of the world-renowned Stan Winston studio (rechristened two years back as Legacy Effects) for special effects has had a profound impact on the visuals. The effects are on a par with the best in the industry.
Actors tend to get lost in special effects movies. But not so in Enthiran. Rajinikanth and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan carry the movie on their shoulders, and considering the fact that much of the acting must have been in front of green screens, one has to say that nothing looks artificial right through. Actors Karunas and Santhanam try to evoke a few guffaws in a comedy track that sadly fails. But that is hardly an issue here.
The song sequences are the centrepiece of the movie. Irumbile oru Idhayam poothatho and the climax song Arima Arima stand out for their execution.
Billed as India’s costliest film ever, Enthiran is also Sun Pictures’ first home production. It hits the bulls-eye as an entertainer.
This article has been re-edited since it was posted first.
Keywords: Enthiran movie review, Rajinikanth, Director Shankar, Aishwarya Rai
First Shankar needs to be congratulated for conceiving a sci-fi story suiting the India Masala genre. He has one of the best mass cinematic brains in the country. But the usual depth of character in Shankar films is really missing in this film. Had this been acted by anyone else other than Rajini, it could have resulted in a different experience. I think Rajini simply carries the film throughout with his subtle, joyous and villainous acts. The locations like Machu Pichu is not looking too great in the movie as the hype made us believe. The camera work is exemplary and dialogues 3/4 of the movie is great esp the ones that have scientific overtones. It would have made even more satisfying experience if the scenes had the depth that we usually find in Shankar's films. But definitely a must watch for all in theaters.
Shankar says it took him a decade for conceiving this film which he claims to be his dream project. But what's there to crave about except for a journey to Hollywood Masala.
The team has a lot of uplifting energy encouraging all to move out of their normal boundaries. They have soared above the clouds. Since a long time, Tamil movie industry always had its feet on the ground, so may it explore the daring side in other ways, too!
In addition, Tamil movie industry "will" be able to outsmart the very best in the field when it comes to strategizing.
The director usually renders something that either launches a trend or gets us talking in a new way & that may not be the role the Hero is used to, but sure he takes to it with surprising relish.
I give all the credit to 3 people - First, Shankar for his vision and showing to the world that as an Indian, "yes, I can". He has woven a science fiction concept so beautifully with the Indian sentimental fabric that it is almost seamless. He also proved his mettle in being able to transform his vision onto the celluloid screen - Hats off.
Second, the ever humble director's actor - Rajinikanth - no other actor of his stature would have given full control of his reins to the director as Rajni has. It is Shankar's movie all in all who has given the most complete Rajnikanth movie to-date capturing the complete repertoire of his talents. Rajni has shed everything that has come to define the Superstart over the past 25-30 years. No stylish actions, no one-liners, no dramatic entries with an opening song, no laughable and incredible stunt sequences, none of all that. But Rajni has portrayed the scientist, the good and the bad robot with such finesse that only he could pull off. Villian Rajni is an absolute treat to watch - simply superb. Rajni's acting talent and his humility to allow Shankar to bring that to the screen so beautifully after almost three decades is truly commendable.
Third, Kalanithi Maran - he took a gamble, a bold risk betting 200 crores of his money trusting Shankar's vision. We need more Shankars and more producers like Maran to support them.
Some people think criticizing Rajini films make them thoghtful, and whoever watch Rajini films are thoughtless. Grow up guys don't think always hollywood films are better, this is step forward for tamil cinema (can say Indian cinema). Enjoy the film for the sheer entertainment, Rajini films are meant for that.
It is more interesting to read the comments. This movie is really lame. It is meant for thoughtless Rajni fans. For the amount of money invested and one fan here recommending Oscar [which was given to movies like Avatar] is really hilarious. A Star Trek Next Generation TV serial had convincing graphics used for Data the Android. And how to act as an Android with and without emotions is demonstrated very well. [Data and Lore played by Brent Spiner] . It is believable and not dumb.The Mosquito Mode is another dumb thing[though that showcases Sujatha's style of making fun]. Overall a horrible attempt but Rajini craze will carry it through.
The second half was even better than the first. The last hour was simply awesome. It proves that Rajini is the only superstar.
An impressive review by Karthik. As for the movie, the good and the possible bad effects of technological invensions are portrayed well by the director, taking Robot as the tool. The animation adopted in Endhiran was top notch and relevant to the story line. That Robots can do rescue operations humans won't be capable of and help doctors treat complicated medical conditions are wishful thinking and could be a possibility in future. Shankar has shown to the world that Indian films can compete with Hollywood in every respect. Hats off to Shankar! Rajni has his huge share for wonderfully portraying Chitti, both the good and bad roles in his own unique style of acting! Puthiya Manidha and Kadal Anukkal are superb compositions by ARR. Writer Sujatha(no more) who came out with the concept of Endhiran needs praise. Felt great watching Endhiran.
Great review......hats off to you
Its a nice review. I have seen the movie. Its amazing to see such hard working team who brought out a wholesome entertainment for all walks of life. Well there are some gray areas which Shankar could have thought twice. I felt that could be due to missing of SUJATHA, the futuristic writer. Neverthless it was great to see such a tamil movie. Congrats to everyone involved in the making of this great movie.
Hi, I am Mrs.Sujaritha KrishRamesh(Srirangam,Trichy,TN,India ) presently from Detroit, USA.The entire team of Enthiran including the producer Mr.Kalanithi Maran deserves big accolades for giving such a wonderful and unimaginable sci-fi film & I wish that the entire team should get Oscar award. I whole heartedly pray for my wish to come into reality.Hats off to the hard efforts of the entire team.
Shankar's magnum-opus is indeed breathtaking. Well done, Shankar! Nevertheless, all the technical brilliance and vivid graphics rob the movie of the human element and down to earth storyline that was evident in his "Indian" and "Anniyan". Hope he reverts back to his diligent story telling and churn out classics like "Indian" once again.
Shankar made his dream come true... Rajini acting is superb.. thou i missed thalaivars style and punch dialog KUDOS to the team for giving hollywood kind of movie and only because of Rajini they can make out profit... great show guys..
This is the best movie seen this year. All the credit goes to Rajini,Shankar and Sun Pictures. Hats off to the technical Brilliance. Its time our directors learn from Master Pieces like Endhiran.
Best movie in india :)
Whenever Rajni film releases, it is festive time for ardent fans like me. In "Endhiran" there is no punch dialogue, no gimmicks from our superstar. After a very long time we have seen a very different Rajnikanth and that too as a villain. "Chitti" whenever comes on the screen rocks. I agree with one of the reader that Shankar would have got 5/5 if he had logic in some scenes. And above all I think we have lost a very great villain by making him as "Superstar"!!!! It is great watching the movie. Always Rajni rocks!!!!!!
i thought by seeing an advertisements related to this film, SURE IT GET FLOP.. but the result seems to be very positive and my poor guessing all vanished and now, i too get ready to watch this enormous movie
Movie is good technically - But the scenes are mostly copies from Hollywood, with no original thinking except in the last scene where the Robots all form different shapes. It is a drag in the second part mostly and Aishwarya's capability needs movies like Devdas, not a dancing partner for mass hero. With all the marketing and hype created with the power of media, it is very easy to see all singing the same tune. It is just a mass film - and no one wants to be noticed otherwise. Hindu too.
Excellent movie by Shankar, and thanks a million as he brought out the acting skills of Rajini. Fantastic movie, great work.
I am in Hong Kong and just came back seen movie Endhiran. It is fantastic, fabulous, entertainment movie that i have ever seen with Indian Cinema. I guess and strongly recommend this movie is one of the best hollywood range moive and it will sure capture many many awards. Credit goes to Shankar, Rajnikanth, etc,......
Saw the movie in London. It was perfect evening and the movie kept us us entertained for the whole evening. a nice one...will certainly recommend it.
truly the picture has elevated all of us in kollywood to
international/ hollywood standard. kudos to the entire team.
let the tamil film industry brings in such innovative and scientific homely touch to all its productions, rather than the oft-repeated garam masala stuff.
NOTHING TO SAY MORE THAT THE EFFORTS AND MONEY THEY HAVE SPENT FOR THIS MOVIE, I JUST PRAY TO GOD THAT THE PICTURE HAS TO BECOME A BIG SUCCESS, THAT'S IT
"It’s more like a mother’s touch to home cooking that simply makes you want more" : Couldn't agree more. Its not abt just the storyline or spl effects, its something that this simple man of 60 possesses that makes it click!
amazing work by sankar and team, enthiran movie is the first step of shankar and sun picture's to get into hollywood. superstar becomes world superstar.
The film is suitable for kids. At least the next film by Shankar should have some seriousness.
Rajni rocks again.Well done Thalaiva Keep it up
This is the best and fairest review of the movie so far. I really liked the mother's touch in the first para.
Enthiran is another loaded film with computer graphics animations.
Sun pictures efforts and Sujatha dialogs are the hallmarks. Shankar's screenplay in second half, lags and did not meet expectations.
Shivaji impressed me more.
i hope dis is a first indian higly technical movie
lost 20 mnts is excellent mainly graphic work but firstoff in train fighting everything is good graphics are not natural like running seen on top of the train and more ever music is good but in backdrop music is nt good instuments r irritating there dirctor concentration was less
camara work is good but there scope to see more
songs choreography is nt good becoz in most of the songs coordination missing
and makeup also nt good in many seens rajnikant(vasee) appers very agly and custums good, editing good, what ever may be filim is good i hope budget problem becoz that only some of the movie like that,
but i can tell in india nobody deal this story like i aprriciate director shenker
i wish u all the best for next movie
The movie is a good entertainer, but to call it the best is not correct. Some of the scenes were not logical, like the mosquito scene, the delivery scene etc. Also the dances in songs were not good with heavy histrionics by Aishwarya.
Overall its ok.
Congratulations to the Endiran Team for making an Indian film at par or more than the levels of Hollywood or anyother International Standards. As expected Rajini has excelled in his acting through his hard, smart work, sincerity and truthfulness in carrying out the roles of Dr Vaseekaran and the "Chitty" well supported by a team including Shankar and Randy. Each Indian is proud of this film!
Endiran - Ths is "Diwali" no matter even if the real one is still a month away, Superstar has arrived and rocking the theatres. Indian cinema's Pinnacle of Evolution - Endiran.
Nice review..
with current exposure of indian fans to foreign movie and making everything globalized has also raised the awareness in people who see movie ... If any of you just search for inception .. you will find thousands of pages of discussion about it... and we have also seen sites describing how Iron man is possible in real life.. All i am saying ... Rajni has single handedly lifts thw whole film even though there are many faults in the movie.. shankar could have closed those logic-less issue with simple solutions.. but yet he kept it that way.. particularly those "Mosquito MOde" and taking with mosquito was very cheap .. just to show chitti will do anything for sana.. and when a robo is soo powerful , it can reprogram and deworm itself and show USG pictures in real time needs its assistance to report in person ( in the second half ) where it could have easily used wifi or any other technology to communicate..
this film could have easily been the best movie , if shankar could have taken some more time to weed out these pesky issues...
the climax is ultimate ... and fight scene in train was really nice
to be true many people including me saw chitti as a robo ... and not as a human(rajni) acting ... and also the rogue robot ...
i would give 3.5/5 if shankar could have slightly used logic in some places...
Excellent. Wish and pray that this film should run for more days and break the entire record so far. Super star is super star.
A balanced review. Guys who write crap elsewhere in other online sites should take a leaf out of writing from Karthik.
Hi all, very generous review this one I might say, haven't watched the movie yet though. A very encouraging note that touched key areas that go in to making a wholesome entertainer. Looking forward to seeing this movie now....where's the pop-corn!
I Like this Pitcher,so Advance tecknoledge Tamil film. So I Like it
Thanking You
"It’s more like a mother’s touch to home cooking that simply makes you want more"
This says it all! A good review for the mega entertainer..
A near picture perfect review. Kudos to the reviewer or editor.
Nothing more to add other than watch it on silver screen. You are indirectly contributing something to many a families involved.
Where ever Rajini throws the dart , the bull's eye circle falls around it.
Im very proud to be a tamilian. But,to entertain the people a single man can spend this much amount of money,first we(youth) wants to be tired then we need relax,entrtmnt,etc.,so spend currency in growth way.atleast give to poor people.
Very nice movie.chitti rocks. Get ready folks. Dot
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