Aranmanai 2 – Keeps it very simple

Bharath Vijayakumar

Certain filmmakers try to explore something new every time and operate without much constraints. Another type works within a template but tries to stretch it within a certain threshold and  keeps things relatively fresh every time. Then there is another group which follows a template to a T. You obviously know Aranmanai 2 comes from a maker of the third category. 

Plot: 

A spirit is out to avenge the perpetuators of its death. 

Cast: 

This is the sort of film where the actors involved could possibly have only one of the two intentions.To be in a project that is a safe bet or to chill out amidst their more serious projects. Comedians are probably the exception as these films solely rely on them to cross the finish line. Kovai Sarala just keeps dishing out the same performance but remains likeable. Soori does a neat job after a while ( Not considering Rajini Murugan that was filmed quite a while back). 

What works? 

The best thing about Aranmanai 2 is that it keeps things very simple and most importantly tight. The runtime is such that it does not hurt you even if you aren't a fan of this type of cinema. Things happen exactly as how you would predict them to pan out even in your sleep. But these happen at quite a speed and this is where Aranmanai 2 gets it right. Comedy which is the mainstay of a Sundar C film is not exactly great here. But a few bouts of laughter are guaranteed. The sequence involving the mistaken identity of the ghost is one such. The horror works like a spoof at best. The garish ghosts do not even bother you let alone make you fearful. Sometimes glamour in a Sundar C film could border on the repulsive for a few. Aranmanai 2 however keeps things in check. 

Bottomline: 

There is a set of people who get scared at horror scenes and laugh at humour. There is another set who get scared when you merely mention horror or laugh at the mere announcement that you are going to crack a joke. Aranmanai 2 is targeted at those who belong to the second category. 

Rating: 2.5/5