Mugamoodi, touted to be the first superhero film in Tamil had created a lot of buzz before its release. There were a few half-hearted attempts earlier to make a superhero film in Tamil but they never managed to get into that league. But, Mugamoodi was outrightly promoted as a superhero film by its production house UTV Motion Pictures. 

Plot

The plot is a rather very simple one. It is about the emergence of a common man into a superhero to bring down the evil. Anand a.k.a..Bruce Lee (Jiiva) is an upfront guy who first tries his superhero costume to impress Shakthi (Pooja Hegde). He runs into trouble when he helps the cops to nab culprits. Then, he decides to turn himself into Mugamoodi for bringing down Dragon (Narain) and his gang, who are responsible for looting and murdering people across the city. Kung Fu is the power used by the superhero to bring down the evil.

Script and Direction

Directed by Mysskin, who is best known for his critically acclaimed films like Anjadhe and Nandalala, the movie is about the emergence of an Indian superhero. Jiiva dons the role of the superhero and Narain plays the antagonist. It is not fair to expect this movie to match Hollywood standards, considering the budget and technological disadvantages. But, still, the movie could have been better script wise. 

Mysskin must be appreciated for his very attempt of making a superhero film for the Tamil audience. The first half of the film builds up well for the superhero to take off completely in the second half. But, it never happens. The second half is agonizingly slow paced and it is very easy for you to lose interest in the movie.

Cast and Crew 

Jiiva has pulled off a stunning performance. He has showed immense maturity and the transition from a common man to the superhero has been enacted by him brilliantly. A popular quote says ‘A hero is only as good as his villain’. A Joker and a Bane were needed to bring out the best from The Batman. They made the viewing experience reach the next level. A lot was expected from Narain in this film. But, sadly, he does not prove to be a powerful antagonist. Towards the climax, he tries desperately to impress but fails. Pooja Hegde and Nassar have very limited scope to perform and have done reasonably well.

Music 

K was praised for his background score in Mysskin’s Yuddham Sei, does not disappoint in this film either. The background score is gripping and blends well with the movie. Among songs, ‘Vaaya Moodi Summa Iru Da’ is already a rage among youngsters and the song has been picturized aesthetically.

Technical Department

Cinematogrphy by Sathya is laudable and considering the fact that most of the scenes are shot at night, he has done justice to the visuals. But, few of the special effects look little odd. The stunt sequences are well-executed, especially the one that happens at a fish market. Having said that, after a while, one may feel that the fight sequences are monotonous. 

Bottomline 

The makers have been telling that this film is made for Indian sensibilities and not a rip-off from any Hollywood film. But, it is nearly impossible to stop people from comparing this film with the recently concluded Batman series. To add to that, there are few characters and sequences (like the deformed mask worn by Narain) that may remind you of Batman series. With sequels being planned, we shall hope that Mysskin follows up with more engaging screenplays. ‘Mugamoodi’ is the story about a superhero, who never really gets going. 

Rating – 2.5 / 5