Ponniyin Selvan - part 1

Ponniyin Selvan : Part One is director Maniratnam's vision of the epic Tamil novel by Kalki. True to the poster the movie is based on the novel but is purely Maniratnam's movie. It does have some minor deviations in plot narrative which might upset purists.

The good part about this movie is one does not have to have read the book. Viewers can experience a version of director Maniratnam's PS:1. It does feel a little bit rushed, however those uninitiated to the PS landscape will be able to catch up. The entire cast and crew deserve a major round of applause and kudos. The visuals, cinematography and performances are the highlights of the movie.

Dare I say, but the parts that annoyed me were that I found the movie highly rushed. I'm no one to judge casting decisions but somehow Lal as Thirukovilur Malayamaan and Mohan Raman as Anirudha Bhramayar didn't quite cut it. Personally, some of the scenes could be a tad brighter and action at times shorter. And Yes, someone else could've played Vanathi.

But above all, this is a wonderful movie. Director Maniratnam's effort has to be appreciated. I gave the movie an 8 based on cast, cinematography, costume and art but have changed it to a 6 for being fragmented.

The book trumps the movie and I'm sure viewers have ample time to read the epic before the next release.

I am the biggest fan of Maniratnam. I was so eagerly waiting for this film. I watched it on the first day itself. This film needed a better hero than Karthi. It was hard to take him seriously as a picaresque swashbuckling warrior. He lacked the physical frame and the acting chops to pull it off. Trisha looked gorgeous. The sets and visuals were also lavish. Songs and background score were unremarkable at best. Has Rehman declined this badly? He used to bring his A game for Manirathnam movies. I wouldn't really recommend this film.

So what really went wrong? A lack of narrative punctuation. It lacks those memorable and spectacular scenes that ties it all together. The narration is quite flat and only the occasional beautiful visual spruced me up as a viewer. Remember the Udal Mannukku monologue in Iruvar? That 3 minute 24 second clip on Youtube was more innovative and had more swag than this whole film.

But I am so glad the film is a big hit and it is a pleasure to see your favorite director smiling and celebrating. Mani sir really stuck his neck out with Iruvar and Kannathil Muthamitaal. He deserves this success. Bravo, Mani sir.

There are three types of audiences for this film in the country: those who have read the books, those who haven't, and those who are familiar with the history of the Chola Kings.

The books were written 70 years ago as a serialised format for a magazine, based on the characters and events of the Chola kingdom. They include fictional characters and dramatic elements for intrigue.

The movie's screenplay is adapted from the books, with necessary changes to appeal to today's audience, similar to adaptations like "Lord of the Rings," "Harry Potter," and "Game of Thrones." However, the mentioned books take place in a fantasy world with miracles and non-human characters, while "Ponniyin Selvan" is a historical fiction set in reality.

The screenplay, written by Mani Ratnam, Jaya Mohan, and Kumaravel, feels flat and confusing for a two-part movie. It gives the impression of a rushed eight-episode TV show re-edited into a two-part film, which is very different from "Baahubali."

Vikram's portrayal of Aditha Karikalan is flawed, with overacting.

Trisha's performance as Kundavai is unbelievably phenomenal. Her look and acting are terrific.

Aishwarya Rai and Karthi get to play the most interesting characters in the movie. Aishwarya looks convincing as Nandini, albeit slightly older, and her performance is okay, but it could have been extraordinary.

Karthi doesn't meet my expectations as Vanthiyadevan.

Jayam Ravi's portrayal of Arun Moli Varman is a surprise. His performance is very good, and although I was initially disappointed with his appearance, by the end of the movie, I accepted him.

The same goes for Aishwarya Lakshmi. Many of her scenes from the book are missing, and Prakash Raj as Sundara Chola doesn't fit the role.

Jayaram as Nambi is fantastic.

Sharath Kumar, Parthiban, Kishore, Mohan Raman, Prabhu, Rahman, and Jayachitra are perfectly cast.

Shobitha as Vanathi appears very artificial, but her dancing skills are commendable.

Manimeghalai is absent from the film.

The locations feel real and exotic, while the sets and props transport us back to the 10th century. The costumes, accessories, and makeup are so well done that we forget the actors and see the real Cholas. The visual effects blend seamlessly with reality in many scenes.

The sound effects are of high quality.

The music sets the mood of the film, and the songs flow well, except for "Chola Chola." However, "Ponni Nadhi" and "Alai Kadal" are great additions to your playlist.

The Devaralanatam sequence is perfectly shot and choreographed, but "Sol" is cut out.

The cinematography by Ravi Varman is outstanding, creating world-class visuals, with only a few shots falling short.

It would be better if both movies were re-edited and released on an OTT platform as a mini-series with eight one-hour episodes.

Mani Ratnam delivers a masterpiece yet again. One would have been forgiven for being a sceptic considering the fact that Ponniyin Selvan is an all time classic of Indian Literature and could have forgiven the makers for not living up to the expectations. However, Mani Ratnam and crew delivers aplomb with PS1. Vikram, Karthi and the rest of the stellar cast did not disappoint a wee bit. The screenplay, direction and music holds its lofty standards throughout the movie. The numerous delays that the movie had before finally hitting the theaters now make sense as well as Mani Ratnam did not leave any stone unturned in making sure the audience were treated to a visual masterpiece.

Part 1 is a must watch and cant wait for Part 2.

Magnum Opus, Brilliant Cast ,Engaging Screenplay,Lovely Presentation,Visual Treat,Justice to the Novel, Best Way to present it, Maniratnam THE MASTER Book the tickets, Watch it in Theatres with Family and Enjoy

Vikram and Aishwarya Prove yet again as to why they are best in Indian Cinema

Trisha and Karthi Are Brilliant Jayam Ravi is THE APT face in and as Ponniyin Selvan Pooonguzhali Will stole everyone's heart

When Maniratnam and ARR unites You can always experience the Best Cinema

Kundavai Nandini Face off scene Vandhiyadevan Kundavai Boat scene and the Ending Frame by Maniratnam Wah Wah Wah

Can't wait to see the Next part that's due next year.