After giving us the hit Sanju Weds Geetha, Director Nagashekar has done it again. With Mynaa, which is a nostalgic mix of romance, comedy, exuberance, suspense and infectious songs along with its extraordinary sets, photography and visual effects. Full marks to Nagashekar who is definitely establishing a reputation for making slightly off-beat films in which regular folks get into the intimacy of the subject. Cinematographer Sathya Hegde cleverly scrambles with the line scheme of the love plot with the beautiful colours of sensuality, emotions, and devastation that lies beneath the surface. Mynaa is based on a narration by real life cop, BB Ashok Kumar.
The story is told in flashback by Sathya (Chetan) to cop Ashok (Sarath Kumar). Sathya, who participates in a reality show in Chennai, accidentally meets Mynaa (Nithya Menen), who is affected with polio from childhood. He falls for her and pretends to be handicapped to seek her attention and love. Meanwhile Mynaa starts liking Sathya because she feels that both could relate to each other.
When love slowly blossoms between the two, Sathya's secret is revealed as Mynaa gets to know the truth. Soon Sathya opens up with his love and both enter into a wedlock. Sathya and Mynaa leave Chennai and come to Bangalore to make a living. Mynaa works as a software professional and Sathya runs a taxi. As a lover and later husband Sathya wants Mynaa to walk on her feet. He meets a doctor who shows keen interest to operate Mynaa. But then on the supense starts, as Sathya lands in police net in Chennai. What provokes Sathya that police chase him and he being falsely charged for 35 murders? Will Mynaa get back on her feet and be back with Sathya? All this and more is taken in an intense and romantic manner, which promises an unforgettable climax.Chetan and Nithya Menen ideally suit the roles as Sathya and Mynaa. This is Chetan's best performance till date. His talent is obvious to the viewer; sweet and sensitive yet strong and protective. He looks too powerful in the chase scene that starts with the film, which has been shot brilliantly. There is something special about Nithya Menen as she is genuine to her character and not just a ploy to look cute.
The other performances are notable particularly Sarath Kumar in a cop role and Suman Ranganathan as a police inspector. The other actors like Malavika, Suhasini, Ananthnag, Tabla Naani, and Sadhu Kokila are quite apt in their respective short and sweet roles. The way to keep the town youth from not being corrupt is captured well by the director, which has been emphasised in good taste.Everybody is in for a real treat with Sathya Hegde's cinematography. He has captured the natural sights very beautifully especially the Doodhsagar falls. Music director Jassie Gift has rendered some melodious songs, which matches the beauty. The only drawback of the movie is the slow narration, which could have been little crispy.
The Verdict: Go watch for the first love.
Film: Mynaa (Kannada)
Cast : Chetan Kumar, Nithya Menen, Sarath Kumar, Suman Ranganath
Director - Nagashekhar
Running at: Cinepolis, Sagar