Director A R Murugadoss makes movies that take their subjects far too seriously. And in this action drama, which reminds us more of Malayalam action film Kochi Rajavu (2005) than Mouna Guru (2011), the Tamil film which it is actually a remake of, the titular character takes herself so seriously that she fails to impress or inspire.
Akira (Sinha) is a tough adolescent who was brought up rather aggressively by her father. At a very young age, she used to stand up for herself and her causes (whatever that means), and as a result, had to do time for three years for a crime that she didn't commit (or did she?). So, naturally, her familial relations are sorta sticky. It is when she moves to Mumbai and gets involuntarily entangled in a serious crime involving a bunch of corrupt cops that her audience really get a wind of what Akira is capable of: break some bones and stare at the camera in slo-mo after the deed has been carried out.
The story is a mixture of popular plot elements we have been seeing in films generally in India. A silent nobody whose principles sound great on paper, but are practically boring and non-feasible in a world where working towards the greater good is everything. Throw a bunch of vindictive villains in this mixture, and there you have it. Just like someone has mentioned in the mainstream media how the active theme of the story is given a dramatic punch by introducing family members is very much true. But, the compassion that should've accompanied it seems to be missing.
Of course, the 140 minutes are not boring if one can prevent oneself from asking questions that are related to logic and common sense. But, then again, one should understand that they are watching a Murugadoss film, which are infamous for defying logic.
Sinha is surprisingly good in the role of a rugged action hero who lands some heavy punches. Her deadpan expression is all that I had qualms about, but let's appreciate her for this feat anyway. Kashyap is average, but that is because of the formulaic approach adopted by his character. Supporting cast is fine.
Overall, a feminist who has gotten the original sense of the word completely wrong may adore this movie and its central character, for she strives to be like a man here. Also, we cannot call it a film about women empowerment; watching a one-woman-show trying to subdue the forces of man-made insanity is not exactly the best way to depict that trending virtue (?). Konkona Sen Sharma also plays a narrator in the film, but I cannot accept what she delivers asn an epilogue: that our daughters should aim to be like Akira. Of course, I would want my daughter to have guts like Akira, but what might look appealing on theory does not always yield good results in real life.
BOTTOM LINE: A R Murugadoss's "Akira" is a decent entertainer with some fine stunts delivered by a woman who should be stopped taken seriously the moment one exits the theater hall. Wait for DVD, and then rent it.
Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES
