Tamil cinema is in an experimentation mode these days. A host of the recent releases in Kollywood testify to the growing attempts at innovation. A welcome trend, indeed.

The latest movie to flaunt this urge to be different is ‘Thirumagan’. The film represents the directorial debut of Rathnakumar, a disciple of veteran director Bharatiraja.

Well,
Rathnakumar seems to have learnt his craft well from his mentor. ‘Thirumagan’ has all that a Bharatiraja film unfolds : a story set in a rural ambience, village characters unblemished by the cunning and ways of the city-folk, music that meshes well with the bucolic charm of the rural areas and commendable performances from the lead pair.

Rathnakumar’s success lies also in his ability to mix the various ingredients well to produce a romantic flick that appeals to all sections of the audience.

‘Thirumagan’ also marks the transformation of actor-director SJ Suryah. In ‘Thirumagan’ he has essayed a rural-centric role, in contrast to his normal urban-specific roles. To his credit, Suryah has managed the change well, in the process showing that he can emote well, too. Apart from excelling in action scenes.

Heroine Meera Jasmine is a perfect foil for him. The talented Meera has turned in yet another masterly performance as Mayakka, a pot-maker. With a superb sense of timing, Meera has well and truly got under the skin of her character. Her expressive eyes convey it all with telling effect. ‘Thirumagan’ proves again that Meera Jasmine is one of the most talented actresses on Indian screen.

Here is the story. Thangapandi (Suryah) is the son of Malaisamy (Vijayakumar). An honest, go-lucky guy, Thagapandi falls in love with Mayakka who ekes out her living by selling pots. But there are others who have an eye on him : his own cousin Rasaathi (Preethi Verma), and Maina (Malavika), a local girl.

The story takes another twist with Malaisamy promising his friend Sivalingam (Radha Ravi), a landlord, that Thangapandi would marry his handicapped daughter Vairam (Lakshana).

Understandably, hell breaks loose when Thangapandi bares his heart to his father. The shocking revelation results in the death of a heart-broken Malaisamy. Needless to say, Thangapandi is blamed for his father’s death. Will he succeed in marrying the woman of his choice? The denouement is best left unsaid.

Excellent camera work by Venu and lilting music by Deva contribute to Thirumagan’s success in no small measure.

Last but not the least is the brilliant on-screen chemistry of Meera and Suryah.

Above average.