The Villain

The Villain Plot: Rama or Ravana, whose ideologies work better? Two shrewd minds battle it out in a one-upmanship game. Who will win?

The Villain Review: Prem had everyone's expectations up when he got a casting coup with Shivarajkumar and Sudeep in one film. The Villain shows how he had to tread carefully since he had two superstars and their fan bases to cater to. The film has enough songs, dialogues, fights and cheekiness to ensure both the fan groups are appeased. But, is the narrative treading on thin ice?

The story begins on a rather dramatic note that deals with a couple that has a husband who is known to play Ravana on screen, his pious Rama-worshipping wife and their son, who is confused whose ideologies work better. The little son is told that in today's world on needs to not just have Rama's discipline and dedication but also Ravana's tact. This sets the tone for the film. The two lead characters are poles apart. While Shivarajkumar's Ram has a heart governing him, while Sudeep's Ram is cerebral and ambitious beyond reason. What happens when the paths of these two cross?

The Villain is not the edgy thriller. Instead, it is every bit the commercial film that needs action, comedy, romance and many songs. It is three hours long and one can question whether this long screen time was required. The two lead actors have interesting mannerisms and give their fans a lot of moments to whistle. Though, one might end up feeling underwhelmed by the end of the three hours. Given the scope and the canvas, one might have expected more, but there are many scenes that leaves one feeling shortchanged.

The film has some laudable moments. Shivarajkumar's song with six heroines is a treat. In one scene that is supposed to be in Sri Lanka, there is a Kannada board saying Ranatunga Tea Stall, which does get a few giggles. Small moments like these are laudable. The mother sentiment that Prem is known for is found aplenty in the film. One might question Amy Jackson's casting as she seems uneasy in a few scenes, but Rakshitha Prem's dubbing does add some emotional credibility to her performance.

The Villain has the formulaic elements that one expects in Prem's films, but are they in the right measure is questionable. Though, for fans of the two superstars and the director, there is enough to cheer about in the film.