'Irandu Mugham' (Tamil, Political Satire, 2010)
Director: Arvind Raj
Cast: Karan, Satyaraj, Suhani, Nasser
After a long hiatus, director Arvindraj ( of 'Oomai Vizhigal' fame) returns with 'Irandu Mugham'. Delving into the murky side of politics, he depicts with humour and a fair degree of interest, the unscrupulous acts of politicians, and their desperate games for survival.
Sarathy, the protagonist, accidentally meets wily politician Tamizhan (Nasser revels in his role), and gets inducted into the party. Dreaming of making it big by hook or by crook, Sarathy never lets go of any opportunity to worm his way further up the hierarchy. From being the party’s youth wing leader, to an MLA, and then a minister, his coffers fill up through murky deals. Suddenly, a shock jolts him out of his senses and forces him to introspect.
Karan essays the role of Sarathy with natural flair, bringing out the transition from a carefree, callous youth, to a more sensitive one. Sathyaraj’s role, as a duty conscious IAS officer, in the film is quite similar to the ones, that he has played in quite a few of his earlier films.
The two actors share a good camaraderie on screen. The twist in the finale goes well with the film’s feel.
There are some other colourful characters like Sakkubai (Malavika) of the ruling coalition, and Tamizhan’s partner-in-crime; Deivanayaki, an upright minister (Anuradha), and Sarathi’s buddy (Kumaravel), who becomes an accidental victim of Sarathi’s thoughtless act. Suhani adds glamour to the film, as Sarathy’s beloved.
Various contemporary, controversial issues like the BT Brinjal issue, come under the director’s scanner. Though not with a bang, the director has made his comeback. Satirical and fairly engaging, Irandu Mugam, is on the lines of movies like 'Amaidhipadai' and 'Arasiyal'.