Bommalattam (U/A)
12/Dec/2008

BOMMALATTAM

Critics Review

2.50

Lacks punch.

Nana Patekar, you guess, has been chiefly inspired by Bharathiraja himself - and a seasoned actor like Nana has no doubt imbibed as much of the director as possible. Arjun, appearing briefly, fulfills the role. For a murder thriller, however, Bharathiraja's screenplay lacks punch. He seems to have been confused about whether to give importance to the characters themselves, or the thriller portion. You end up getting only bits and pieces of both, which makes for a rather not fulfilling meal. (more)

Source: Pavithra Srinivasan, Rediff.com

2.50

Hold on to your seats!

Bharathiraja's skill at crafting watertight screenplay is evident as the movie travels at jet pace without a moment of sluggishness in the narrative. Besides, the narrative is smart that is capable of holding the suspense quotient until the truth is unfurled on its own during the course of the movie. Nana's acting needs no elucidation – he fits perfectly. Arjun delivers a subtle performance. Mandy's background score deserves a special mention, especially for its subtlety. (more)

Source: Editorial Board, Behindwoods.com

2.50

A very differently conceived plot, but with its share of howlers …

Firstly, the end is new. The impact on the viewer is tremendous and Bharathiraja proves that his creative skills are pretty much active. Editing (K.Palanivel) is slick but the oscillation from the present to the past and back is not always very clear. Art, in Sabu Cyril style, adds sheen, especially at the outdoor spots, and the colors used enhance the magic. Veteran Kannan’s camera caresses the spots with an eye for detail. (more)

Source: Malathi Rangarajan, The Hindu

3.00

Bharathiraja's touch.

Bommalattam has a lot of mystery and thrill in it, yet it also carries the director's signature imprint. In fact, audiences see a lot of Bharathiraja in Nana’s role; the character gels well with Nana Patekar's looks and personality. For Arjun too, this is a different role. Kajal Aggarwal, the bubbly, emotional heroine, gives her best performances in some scenes. Vivek's comedy in the movie also has a filmy link. B. Kannan impresses with his camerawork. Himesh Reshammiya's music is another plus point in the movie. (more)

Source: Editorial Board, galatta.com

3.50

Creative angst vs perceived thought.

After watching Bommalattam, Bharathiraja's bilingual venture, one cannot help being overawed by the excellence of Nana Patekar – easily one of the best actors India has ever produced. Comic relief is provided by Vivek and Manivannan. Rukmini Vijayakumar has done justice to her role. Cinematography is brilliant and the background score is passable. None of the songs impress. Bommalattam does succeed in arresting audiences' attentions during a major twist in the story which in actuality is the very crux of the film. (more)

Source: Editorial Board, IndiaGlitz.com

4.00

Don't miss it.

Bharathiraja is back. Bommalattam is an edge-of-the-seat, intelligent and absorbing thriller. Perfect casting, superb packaging and brilliant performances by lead actors make it a must watch. Himesh Reshammiya's music is just ok. At the same time the film is exquisitely photographed and editing is crisp. On the whole, hats off to Bharathiraja for creating a taut thriller which is a masterpiece of moods, anxieties and dread. (more)

Source: MovieBuzz, Sify.com