Manmadhan Ambu Review

Handsome. Intelligent. Talented. Actor. Director. Script writer. Singer… One man with so many ‘kamaals’ (magical skills)! Kamal Haasan is not just an actor, he is an inspiration! He has sported various roles on and off screen, and has won accolades for his every venture. Irrespective of whether his movie bombs at the box office or runs to a golden jubilee, he continues to make movies of substance. And after the thrilling Unnaipol Oruvan, the legendary actor is back on screen with Manmadhan Ambu (Cupid’s arrow). This time, Kamal is back with one of his favourite directors K.S. Ravikumar. The Kamal-Ravikumar combo has always delivered hits. Remember the hilarious Avvai Shanmugi (1996), Thenali (2000), Panchathantiram (2002) and Dasavathaaram (2008)? Interestingly, this combo has never failed at the box office till date.

Manmadhan Ambu has the beautiful Trisha pairing up with Kamal Haasan for the first time in their careers. Maddy (Madhavan) is also back with Kamal after Anbe Sivam. Who can forget the powerful Anbe Sivam (also scripted by Kamal Haasan)? The portrayal of his own character and that of Madhavan are complete and flawless – and both the actors have lived their roles. Manmadhan Ambu has a huge star cast, which includes Sangeetha, Ramesh Arvind, Usha Uthup, Manju Pillai and Suriya (in a cameo appearance). More that half the film was extensively shot across Europe and on a cruise ship.

Kamal Haasan’s comedies are always unique and ribtickling. There is a streak of humour in this man that makes his comedies inspire laughter like only he can. Michael Madana Kama Rajan, Avvai Shanmugi, Pammal K Samandham, Panchathanthiram, Vasool Raja MBBS are proof enough!

Returning to Manmadhan Ambu, it narrates the story of three persons: Major Mannar (Kamal Haasan), industrialist Madhan Gopal (Madhavan) and Ambujakshi (Trisha). In addition, Sangeetha plays the role of Deepa (divorcee with two children), Ambujakshi’s close friend. Ramesh Arvind is Mannar’s close friend suffering from cancer. Then there is Oviya, Madhan’s cousin.

Madhan is deeply and madly in love with actress Ambujakshi but he always suspects her, which eventually ends in quarrels. When Ambujakshi goes abroad (Paris) to enjoy her vacation, Madhan gets irritated and approaches private detective Mannar to spy on her. Mannar accepts the job on one condition: Madhan has to take care of the medical expenses of Rajan (Ramesh Arvind). Meanwhile, Deepa also goes to Paris with her children. And with that, the hilarious joy ride begins!

The film also has some interesting flashbacks like Madhan’s accident, Mannar’s commando life and marriage! The film gets even more hilarious when Mannar hatches a conspiracy against Madhan.

When it comes to performances, who can be better than the legendary Kamal? Yes, it’s Kamal all the way; like an all-rounder he is right there in all departments. His witty one liners, dances and stunts are a treat for the audience. Manmadhan Ambu is definitely a treat for all Kamal fans. Madhavan is not too far behind. He has played a complex character with ease. He has once again proved his versatility and acting brilliance. Pretty lass Trisha has dubbed in her own voice in the film. Her subtle emotions need special mention! So get ready to see a new Trisha.

Sangeetha has given her best and she fits the bill perfectly. Ramesh Arvind, Urvashi, Kitty, Usha Uthup, Maju Pillai, Oviya and Kunjan have done their parts well. Suriya make a special appearance in a song sequence with Trisha. We salute producer Udhayanidhi Stalin for his wonderful efforts! As Kamal rightly said, the star cruise plays a very prominent role in the film.

Above all, it’s director K.S. Ravikumar’s racy screenplay that makes the film more interesting. He has ensured that fans are not disappointed all through. Music by Devi Sri Prasad is apt and perfect, with the song ‘Neelavaanam’ standing out. Cinematography by Manush Nandan is rich and sophisticated and Shaan Mohammed’s editing is neat and sleek.

Overall, Manmadhan Ambu is a perfect Christmas treat! So don’t miss this joyride!



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