'Johnny Mera Naam, Preethi Mera Kaam' (Kannada)
Director: Preetham Gubbi
Cast: Vijay, Ramya, Achyuth, Rangayana Raghu, Dattanna, Sharan
If the script of ‘Johnny Mera Naam Preethi Mera Kaam’ is of any indication, it seems director Preetham Gubbi has failed to realise the importance of the quality. It is unfortunate that Preetham failed to envisage it even after his maiden movie ‘Haage Summane’ bombed at the box office.
The problem with this two-film-old director is that he merely depended on the art director who put up a colony set that required lakhs of rupees. Had the director devoted a little more time to ensure all the ingredients in the script and a crisp screenplay, the movie would have been a good one.
As far as Vijay’s performance is concerned, he has tried his best. The disadvantage is that there is not much scope for a villain in this movie. Generally, Vijay’s fans expect him to ensure that enemies are admitted in hospitals with multiple injuries. Due to no strong villain in this movie, Vijay’s fans have no chance of becoming vicarious while watching the stunt sequences.
Perhaps, it is the first time that Ramya has taken up the item-number route not only to entertain her hard-core fans but also to keep the cash registers ringing. She sets the silver screen on fire by appearing in midriff-baring outfits. Ramya’s dancing skills in the song — ‘Don’t Know You Know I’m Sexy’ — deserve a pat on her back.
Though senior actor Dattanna’s performance is a treat to watch for frontbenchers, it is pity to see him in such a role. It is Rangayana Raghu who has provided the maximum support. His body language and gestures are very good in a song sequence between Dattanna and himself.
The movie is about Johny (Vijay) and Maamoo (Rangayana Raghu) who maintain a social service centre. Both of them devote their life to help residents of Gandhinagar Colony. Johnny happens to meet Priya (Ramya), who comes from abroad to stay with her grandfather. Smitten by her beauty, Johnny falls in love with her. Meanwhile, her father (Achyuth) brings Pritham (Sharan), a prospective bridegroom, from abroad and she refuses to accept him.
Later part of the movie is all about what happens with Johnny and Priya. Harikrishna has provided lilting music. Songs are full of rhythm. Cinematographer Krishna has done a neat job behind the camera. The movie is worth watching if you are interested in entertainment.