Dog-centric crime investigation films are a rarity on Tamil screen. And when one comes along we welcome it. Idoh, a German Shepherd, which shares frames with Sibiraj in the film, gets top billing next to the hero in the credit list. And the canine deserves every bit of the attention showered on him.
The earlier part is interesting and fast paced with many fun moments. Karthik is a policeman suffering from post-traumatic stress. His wife had left him when he had refused to give up his job. A dog, Mani, comes into his life providing companionship.
The chemistry between Mani (Idoh) and Karthik (Sibiraj) seems natural. Karthik tries to train the disobedient dog, a strong bonding developing between the duo. It’s in the second half where the story shifts to vendetta and kidnapping that the narration loses steam. Karthik’s pregnant wife Renu is kidnapped by a man angered by the cop’s action. The story shifts from Coimbatore to Ooty where the rest of it is played out.
The film seems to be inspired by various Hollywood films. Renu being buried live in a coffin fitted with a webcam, time running out for her, reminds one of a similar scene in Kill Bill. The whole rescue operation by Sibiraj and the cops lacks thrill and the suspense element.
Balaji as the baddie could have toned down his performance, which is more on the loud side. The scenes between Karthik and his wife lack depth, so we neither empathise with her plight, nor identify with Karthik’s feelings as he desperately searches for her. Karthik is said to be suffering from post-traumatic stress, and distressed by the sound of bullets. The director could have worked on this angle in a more effective way. The twist in the tale on the real reason for the villain’s animosity with Karthik seems contrived.
Nizar’s impressive camera work is a plus point for the film. And Praveen’s slick editing limits the narration to a crisp 114 minutes of viewing time.
The uncomplicated tale of a man and his dog may have its glitches. But it’s refreshing in its premise and has many charming moments. An ideal comeback vehicle for Sibiraj, the actor looks fit and more presentable. Watch it for Idoh and Sibiraj’s flattering makeover.