Two fascinating stalwarts, Darshan and senior actor Ambareesh, have got together for this mass entertainment film, Bulbul; undoubtedly, one among the best remakes in recent times (Bulbul is a remake of the Telugu film, Darling).
With lavish production and superb cast, MD Sridhar manages to give an atmospheric direction stitching in gorgeous landscapes, soothing scenes and some excellent shots.
Darshan, in a lover boy image has delivered his part in style and elegance. Though the story of Bulbul is quite a cliched one, more often seen in Telugu films, the family drama is all about a few thick friends settled in different locations who decide to come together after a gap of 10 years. Among these friends is Vijay (Darshan), in love with his childhood sweetheart, Kaveri (Rachita Ram) who migrates to Switzerland along with her father (Ashok). Meanwhile, an acquaintance of Vijay, Ramya Barna tries to commit suicide because her love proposal gets rejected by him.Not tolerating his daughter's plight, Ramya's father, played by Sharath Lohitashwa, blackmails Vijay and threatens to kill his friends if the proposal is not accepted. Vijay manages to convince him by cooking up a false story about Kaveri. Vijay gets to meet Kaveri at the reunion along with his father Amarnath (Ambareesh). Surprisingly, Kaveri does not reciprocate to his love even though he goes all out to impress her. Is Kaveri really in love with her childhood friend? Will Vijay win the love of Kaveri? These are answered in the second part of the film.
Bulbul is a story for everyone, with fast paced action and comedy, the excitement lasts throughout. Darshan, who has evolved as a actor has handled the family entertainment well. But the highlight of the film is the relationship of Ambareesh and Darshan as father and son.
Actress Rachita doesn't come out as a first timer in the film. She has managed to match up with Darshan.
The rest of characters have supported the film well. Director MD Sridhar, who is known for making films based on family entertainment, has again left an artistic stamp in Bulbul too.
Though the entire movie turns out to be fun-filled, the second half is more impressive. However the director could have trimmed it by few minutes and make it more sleek.Kaviraj's dialogues are engaging and good in parts. A good attempt by V Harikrishna with songs like Nille Nille Kaveri crooned by Hemanth Kumar and Jagadalliro sung by Sonu Nigam.
Cinematographer AV Krishna Kumar has explored good locations in Switzerland. Action by Ravi Varma needs a special mention. There could have been a little more effort at the editing desk.
The Verdict: Forget the story, watch for the mass entertainment and don't miss the magic treat of Darshan and Ambareesh
Film: Bulbul (Kannada)
Cast: Darshan, Rachitha Ram
Director: M D Sridhar