Released in the early 80s, Malaiyur Mambattiyan was one of the biggest hits of actor Thyagarajan’s career. He had written, directed, produced and played the title role in the movie and the film was remade in various languages too. The Robin Hood saga has now returned to Tamil screens again as Mambattiyan.
However, while Thyagarajan has restricted his responsibilities to only production and direction this time, it is his son, Prashanth, who has donned the lead role, which his father had essayed with such flair in the earlier version. As comparison to his father’s performance is inevitable, Prashanth has risen up to the challenge and has played the role with panache. The actor’s body language and voice modulation has lent intensity and conviction to the role of the outlaw. His action scenes are a delight to watch.
Remaking a successful film is no easy task, as makers invariably fail to capture the soul of the original while replicating the content. But Thyagarajan has managed to recapture the essence of his earlier work, even while giving the rustic saga a more contemporary feel.
The screenplay is taut, the director rarely losing his grip on his narration. It’s a racy pace as we follow Mambattiyan’s transformation from a simple youth into an outlaw, who is revered by his people and wanted by the police at the same time.
There is vendetta-killing which forces Mambattiyan to take to the forests; a persistent cop (Prakash Raj apt for the role) who is determined to hunt him down; the woman in his life whose marriage he had inadvertently thwarted; the local dancer who held a torch for him; and the copycat thief (Riyaz) who cashes in on Mambattiyan’s name.
Meera Jasmine has got a substantial role after a long gap and lent a wholesome appeal as Kannatha. Mumaith’s Sornam character, the local dancer who holds a torch for Mambattiyan, has been well played too. What doesn’t click is Vadivelu’s comic antics, as the actor somehow has failed to get the laughs.
This version is grander and larger on canvas, with more technique and style. The clothes and the fights have all been adapted to suit modern sensibility. Thrilling are the chases and stunts, particularly the one where Mambattiyan escapes from police custody.
Thaman’s background score and the slick editing (Don Max) enhance the mood. The cool lush locations are breathtaking as Shaji Kumar’s camera has captured the action impressively. Fast-paced and engaging, Mambattiyan couldn’t have been made better than this.