Top Albums and Songs - 2015

"Iraniyan Nadagam" from Uttama Villain remains to be my most favorite song of this year. Fantastic lyrics, singing and orchestration. It's "Malare" from Premam in Malayalam, "Tum Saath Ho" from Tamasha in Hindi and "Kanulu Kalanu" from Abbayitho Ammayi in Telugu are my other top favorites.

Tamil

My Top Favorite Albums

1. Uttama Villain - Ghibran
2. O Kadhal Kanmani - A R Rahman
3. Yennai Arindhal - Harris Jayaraj
4. Naanum Rowdy Than - Anirudh
5. Romeo Juliet - Imman

My Top 20 Favorite Songs

1. Iraniyan Nadagam - Uttama Villain
2. Naane Varugiren - O Kadhal Kanmani
3. Unakenna Venum Sollu - Yennai Arindhal
4. Neyum Naanum - Naanum Rowdy Than
5. Ennodu Nee Irunthal - I
6. Donu Donu Donu - Maari
7. Vaaya Veera - Kanchana 2
8. Siru Nadai - Urumeen
9. Thoovanam - Romeo Juliet
10. Sil Sil - Kaaka Muttai
11. Poo Avilum - Enakkul Oruvan
12. Enna Solla - Thanga Magan
13. Naanal Poovai - Kirumi
14. Dangamari - Anegan
15. Isai Veesi - Isai
16. Theemai Dhan Vellum - Thani Oruvan
17. Irul Konda Vaanil - Baahubali
18. Yendi Yendi - Puli
19. Yaar Enna Sonnalum - Aambala
20. Kadhal Kan Kattuthe - Kakki Sattai

My Other Favorites

• Lovea Lovea, Sagaavaram - Uttama Villain
• Kara Aatakara, Aye Sinamika, Theera Ula, Malargal - O Kadhal Kanmani
• Idhayathil Etho Ondru, Aadharu, Maya Bazzar- Yennai Arindhal
• Kannana Kanne, Thangamey, Ennai mattrum kadhale - Naanum Rowdy Than
• Pookale, Ennodu (reprise), Merasalayiten - I
• Vai Raja Vai, Pachai Vanna Poove - Vai Raja Vai
• Kadhale Kadhale - Indru Netru Naalai
• Oru Vidha Aasai - Maari
• Karuppu Karuppu - Kaaka Muttai
• Yaar intha muyalkutti, Silukkumarame - Payum Puli
• Hey Umayaal - Urumeen
• Naan Aval Illai, Piravi - Masss
• Prabalamagavey, Yendi Ipdi, Yaar - Enakkul Oruvan
• Konjalaai, Innum Enna - Yatchan
• Im so cool - Kakki Sattai
• Vaadi Rasathi - 36 Vayathinile
• Dandanakka, Araki - Romeo Juliet
• Vaa Vaa - Aambala
• Unnale, Anbe - Darling
• Nee Sunno - Nannbenda
• Azhaga Aanazhaga - Inimey Ippadithan
• Yen Intha - Rajathanthiram
• Kannala Kannala, Kadhal cricket - Thani Oruvan
• Yaaro yaaro, Penne Penne - Savaale Samali
• Mutham Kodutha - TIN
• Yenya En Kottikara - Papanasam
• Rasathi - 36 Vayathinile
• Chinnanchiru Kiliye - Kutram Kadithal
• Poove Poviname - 144
• Aaluma Doluma, Uyir nadhi - Vedhalam
• Tham Tham - Pasanga 2
• Aanalum Indha Mayakkam - 10 Endrathukulla
• Theeradha aasaigal, Payanangal - Orange Mittai
• Oh oh - Thangamagan
• Alunguren - Chandi Veeran 

Malayalam

Best Albums:

1. Premam - Rajesh Murugesan
2. Ennu Ninte Moideen - Gopi Sunder, M. Jayachandran, Ramesh Narayan
3. 100 Days Of Love - Govind Menon

My Top 20 Favorite Songs

1. Malare - Premam (Most heard, viewed)
2. Malarvaga Kombathu - Ennum Eppozhum
3. Arike Pozhiyum - 100 Days Of Love
4. Kannodu Chollanu - Ennu Ninte Moideen
5. Kankankalil - Madhura Naranga
6. Sneham Nee Natha - Charlie
7. Enne Thallende - Oru Vadakkan Selfie
8. Manpatha - Mili
9. Ummarathe - Ivan Maryadaraman
10. Manjupeyume - Mili
11. Mukkathu Penne - Ennu Ninte Moideen
12. Ee Kadalinu - Mariyam Mukku
13. Aluva - Premam
14. Kaanal Katte - Haram
15. Mele Mele - Life of Josutty
16. She's so beautiful - Lavender
17. Chanthan Thelinju - Utopiyile Rajavu
18. Vazhuvom Thazhuvom - Madhura Naranga
19. Karunkalli Kuyile - She Taxi
20. Neelavan Mukile - Ayal Njanalla

Other Favorites:

• Thithimi,- Ennum Eppozhum
• Kalippu, Kalam Kettu, Red Velvet, Rockkankuthu, Chinna - Premam
• Hridhayathil Niramai, Ninnekaanan, Manjilkoode - 100 Days of Love
• Kaikottum, Neelambalin - Oru Vadakkan Selfie
• Mili Mili, Kanmaniye - Mili
• Mekkarayil - Mariam Mukku
• Ettum Pottum, Sarangiyil - You Too Brutus
• Anaandhi  Yugangalai - Lavender
• I Remember You - Nee-Na
• Nanayumee Mazha, Rathiri Mulla - Lailaa O Lailaa
• Karunkalil Kuyile, Vezhambal - She Taxi
• Ayyayo Ayyayo - Kunjiramayanam
• Ilavanji, Ee Mazha, Ee Mazhathan, Kathirunnu - Ennu Ninte Moideen
• Mohabatth Mein - Anarkali
• Ende Maavum Pothe - Adi Kapyare Kootamani
• Puthumazhayai, Pularikalo - Charlie
• Ambaazham Thanalitta - Oru Second Class Yatra

Hindi

Best Albums

1. Tamasha - A R Rahman
2. Shamitabh - Ilayaraja
3. Shaandaar - Amit Trivedi

Favorites:

• Sha Sha Mi Mi, Sannata, Pidly, Ishq E Fillum - Shamitabh
• Move On, Banno, Old School Girl, O Sathi Mere - Tanu Weds Manu Returns
• Calcutta Kiss - Detective Byomkesh Bhakshi
• Moh Moh Ke Dhaage, Tu - Dum Laga Ke Haisa
• Mohabbat Buri Bimari, Dhadaam Dhadaam, Sylvia - Bombay Velvet
• Main Tujshe Pyaar - Baby
• Khoney De, Le Chal Mujhe - NH10
• Jee Karda - Badlapur
• Journey Song, Piku - Piku
• Dil Dhadkne Do - Dil Dhadkne Do
• Fashion Khatam - Dolly Ki Doli
• Tu Chahiye, Zindagi, Tu Jo Mila - Bajrangi Bhaijaan
• Sooiyan, Sahebaan, Guddu Rangeela - Guddu Rangeela
• Mera Naam Mary, Gaaye Jaa, Sapna Jahaan - Brothers
• Afgan Jalebi, Saware - Phantom
• Sarfira, Lip to Lip - Katti Batti
• Tung Tung Bhaje - Singh is Bling
• Gulaabo, Nazdeekiyan, Senti Waali Mental, Shaam Shaandaar - Shaandaar
• Tum Saath ho, Matargashti, Wat Wat Wat, Safarnama - Tamasha

Telugu

Best Albums

1. Abbayitho Ammayi - Ilayaraja
2. Malli Malli Idi Rani Roju - Gopi Sundar
3. Yevede Subramaniam - Radhan, Ilayaraja

Favorites:

• Marhaba, Yenno Yenno, Gathama Gathama - Malli Malli Idi Rani Roju
• Beautiful Zindagi, Challa Gaali, O Kala, Idhera - Yevede Subramaniam 
• Jil Jil Jil, Pori Masala Pori - Jil
• Anthapuramlo, Punnami Puvvai - Rudramadevi
• Nuvve Nuvve - Kick2
• Tholi Paruvam, Kanulu Kalanu, Maatallo, Okasaari - Abbayitho Ammayi
• Akkineni Akkineni - Akhil
• Bale Bale, Endaro, Hello Hello, Motta - Bale Bale Magadivoy
• Bangaramma, Maya O Maya - Courier Boy Kalyan
• Itu Itu Ani Chitikelu Evvarivo - Kanche
• Mila Mila, Ye Kadha, Sumangandhaala - Kerintha
• Pandaga Chesko, Ye Pilla Pilla - Pandaga Chesko
• Shivam Shivam, I Love you too - Shivam
• Charuseela, Jatha Kalise - Srimanthudu

Chennai Rains - Government Enters Notice Period Officially

Chennai is getting back to normal after the devastating effects of rain last week. Even now some of the places are yet to recover fully. Chennai never had this much amount of rains in last 100 years and the whole city came to a standstill for few days. Even though Chennai is not my native I still love this city and really enjoy staying here.

We struggled for some three days. None of the ATMs was working so we didn't have enough cash in our hand to eat. No power so we didn't even know what was happening around. No signals so we couldn't communicate with anyone outside. We almost led a technology detox and struck with sleeping and reading books.

Only after reaching a place with electricity we came to know the actual effect of this floods. It made us feel like we led a comfortable three days compared to what people were going through for those three days. Also, we came to know how many people in and around Chennai were helping everyone to get through this. Salute to all the real life heroes for making this happen. And, it was a shame to sit inside my home idly for three days without knowing what was happening around us. If these many people didn't volunteer then the effect of this floods would have been even worse and with this kind of government, not sure when Chennai would have been back to its normal life. They took so much trouble to reach for people struck in waters to rescue them, give them food and everything else. It was very sad to see people waving hands from their terrace to the helicopters asking for food.

Also, social media proved its power once again, and it made sure the help reaches everyone. And, many people volunteered to do relief work and made this huge. But, some morons were spreading fake news which travelled faster than light and reached everyone. And, few people fighting over actors' contribution instead of asking the same to their councillor, MLA and MP they have elected.

And, our government role in this flood, they not only abandoned the people in need, but they made sure they stop all the relief materials sent from various places and pasted "AMMA STICKERS". And, amid all these floods they printed those stickers of various sizes and had volunteers "தானாகவே  முன் வந்து" pasted those stickers. I couldn't believe someone has thought of this idea and this made the people, even more, angrier.

All our ministers and mayor were afraid to take any questions from the media. That was understandable because our CM hasn't given any statements and our ministers are not allowed/capable of making any statements of their own. Still we haven't seen our CM in any press meet or launch any formal investigation on why this flood have happened since many sites reported this flood was man-made which could have been avoided or at least the loss could have been reduced. But, still our government made sure all the TASMAC shops are open so people can get over their loses with the boozes, hats off.

With the state elections are around the corner, this Amma DMK government is working like an employee in his notice period, doing nothing, knowing that the end is near. Looks like Amma has already given up on next elections and the way they handled this flood proves us they have entered their notice period officially.

Get well soon Chennai and bounce back in style.

Abbayitho Ammayi Songs - நேற்று இல்லை நாளை இல்லை எப்பவும் நீ ராஜா

Abbayatho Ammayi - I have no idea about the hero or heroine or the director or even the meaning of this title. Only thing I know is it has Raja sir’s music. I know it's too much to write about the songs which you don't even understand, but still it's Raja sir’s songs. I really really loved this album so thought I would share about it.

Kanulu Kalanu Piliche - The first song I heard in this album and liked it the very moment. Haricharan and Chinmayi’s voice are so pleasant and has maestro's stamp all over this. Even though the language is so distant, but the song felt very close to me. It may be because of the tune or the singers. It's my pick of this album. Couldn't stop hearing this song and I really wish I understand the lyrics.

Reena Macareena - Wow, a very modern un-illayarajaish song, spirited singing from Piyush Kapur makes you tap your feet with the beat of this song. 

Edhuru Choosthunna - Another wonderful melody in this album. The song starts with some guitar and followed by violin. A typical Raja song sung by Vibhavari, As usual the orchestration in the interludes and preludes reminds vintage Ilayaraja.

Maatallo Cheppaleni - Karthik have sung this or breezes through this pleasant song. Enna voice da. He can even make gibberish sound wonderful and here he got another fantastic song in Raja sir music. Magic written all over.

Tholi Paruvam - Another wonderful duet after Kanula Kalanu with bit more pace in this song. Once again Raja sir's magic work with the strings of violins. Another pick of the album. And, both the singers really rocked it.

Okkasari O Vayyari - Rap portion in a Raja sir's song. This is really surprising, I wonder whether I have heard rap portions in Raja sir’s songs before and it is too good as well. And, the rap portions sound like Blazee, if I am correct.

Saradale - In Rudramadevi, three singers have sung a wonderful Andhapuramlo here four singers in this fun song and fantastic collaboration resulting another exiting song in this album.

Title songs - Short and slightly underwhelming compared to other songs, both versions are almost similar except for the singers here.

My favourites - Kanulu Kalanu Piliche, Tholi Paruvam, Maatallo Cheppaleni, Endhuru Choosthunna, Saradale. But, couldn't ignore Reena and Okkasari as well. Totally this album have become my favourite, now waiting for the movie. I hope they release with subtitles.

A fantastic romantic album post Neethane En Ponvasantham, even better then Megha from the veteran. I wish they have made this a bilingual so that the songs could have been released in Tamil as well. Isaignani Ilayaraja and his melodies works wonders even if it's in a language which I doesn't understand. Now eagerly waiting for  Raja sir's 1000th movie Tharai Thapattai.

As the caption of this film says, let's (hear the songs and) fall in love.

Deepavali 2015 - Class Thoongavanam and Mass Vedalam

This Deepavali we saw two big releases one from Kamalhasan, a classy Thoongavanam and another one from Ajith, a mass (don't ask me the meaning) Vedalam. Both are vastly different genre from each other.

Thoongavanam - Kamal's third movie this year, the more he ages, the faster he works. Thoongavanam was completed in double quick time. It's based on a French thriller, Sleepless Night, directed by one of his assistant Rajesh and screenplay by Kamal himself. I resisted my temptation to watch the original to witness in Tamil first.

Thoongavanam is a no nonsense movie with a tight and gripping screenplay. No song, unnecessary comedy, heroism build up scenes, etc. It's mostly a hide-and-seek game between, Kamal, Kishore and Trisha, Prakash Raj and Sampath. Even though more than 90% of the movie happens inside a same location, movie never gets boring. Some of the comedy lines were blend in neatly.

Kamal as usual at his best as a cop and a father who's trying to save his son. All other actors like Sampath, Kishore and Prakash Raj have performed up-to their potential. But, the real surprise is Trisha and her character. Really loved her as a cop and a fight scene with Kamal. Asha Shareth character didn't offer anything to the movie.

Sanu Vargese's choreography was a delight and especially during the fight sequences inside the kitchen. Once again, Kamal's regular Ghibran delivers his yet another best work. He gets it right for every scene to sustain the suspense and tension.

So, Thoongavanam just delivers what it promises from it trailers, nothing more and nothing less. It definitely met my expectation, but I secretly hoped it will exceed it since it's a Kamal movie.

Thoongavanam - 3.5/5.0. For not exceeding my expectation solely because it's Kamal movie.

Vedalam - Yet another movie from Ajith with director Siva, I cannot believe how's this happening. I can understand Veeram, where Ajith tried to do a village role, but a second movie with the same director was really a surprise and now there's talk that they will be joining hands again, god no.

Vedalam offers nothing new in terms of story, it's age old sister-sentiment-revenge-story, where hero finds an international Mafia and beats the shit out of them single-handedly. And, we don't even have to think about logic.

Ajith as a taxi driver looks good, but didn't like his don look, he looked really bulky. The flashback slowed down the movie. We know what's going to happen and too many fight sequences as well. And, I don't even get it why he's nicknamed as Vedalam. Thambi Ramaiah's last conversation with Ajith before he dies was the only good sequence in that flashback.

The fight choreography was good even though it was as usual over the top. I couldn't comment on comedy and Shruthi's character since I missed a whole 40 mins in the beginning. So, I didn't get to see the good guy transforming into a bad guy since I missed the most part of a good guy. Lakshmi Menon does a good job who's really the female lead in this movie. Anirudh's BGM were really loud for most of the places and the songs were underwhelming, except Aaluma Doluma.

So Vedalam is yet another commercial movie solely aimed to play for the gallery and Thala fans in particular. The festival season and Thala veriyans in the theatre made it a worthy experience. Everyone celebrated each and every move of Thala. But I really wish Ajith to work with some other directors for at least three or four movies before he does another one with Siva.

Vedalam - 2.5/5.0. Nothing new, but the experience of watching this movie with Thala veriyans in the theatre was electrifying.

Sehwag - A man who doesn't believe in Singles

Virender Sehwag, a phenomenon in Indian Cricket has finally calls it a day. A batsman who played fearless cricket throughout his career and gave so much joy to every cricket fans.

My first memory of Sehwag was way back in an ODI match against Aussies at home under Dada's captaincy. Sehwag won the MoM award for his contribution with both bat and ball. He scored a fifty while batting down the order and also picked up three wickets. I still remember watching that game in my neighbour's home and remembered this guy's name.

When Sehwag was back in Indian team as an opener, the first thing that made me like him instantly was his batting stance, he looked exactly like Sachin. During his initial days it was always a confusion when both of them are batting together. As a Sachinist this made me a fan of him easily. And, he and Sachin must be one of the most dangerous opening pair in ODIs.

He changed the way test matches are played and made them entertaining. If he gets going he will be near his hundred before lunch. Few people are struggling to maintain his test strike rate (82.23) in ODIs. He will be the only guy who tries to hit a six when he was 195 or 295, nobody will even think about it. Only Sehwag can do those, and he won't mind getting out as well. When Viru opened with Dravid in an innings they were very near to break the record for highest opening partnership, but he got out. Sehwag didn't even feel about missing the record because he wasn't even aware of it. That's Sehwag, he never really cared about records.

And, when he started opening with Ghambir in all formats, they were like Rabne Bana De Jodi. My most favourite innings in test will be the triple century against SA in Chennai, he was playing it like an ODI. Also his eighty odd runs while chasing against England which made team India to believe themselves to chase more than 380 in that match. And, most of his ODI innings he played, if he was in the crease for more than twenty overs, it would be absolute entertainment. Hitting first ball to boundary in five consecutive matches in 2011 worldcup.

And, he sometimes wins matches for India with his bowling as well. One of his best must be against S.A in a champions trophy where India pulled victory out of nowhere. Also, in another match against Sri Lanka in an Asia cup which made them qualify to the finals. In test, against Aussies in Perth where he bowls Gilly around his legs which brought a famous victory for India. Also, in that same match he insisted then captain to give one more over to Ishant when he was bowling one of the best spells in test cricket to Ponting. And, Ishant gets the wicket of Ponting the very first ball.

During a test match against Kiwis in New Zeland, there was a guy with a board saying 'Sehwhack', when he was hitting the bowlers all over the park toward the end of the day's play. And, he immediately gets out, the guy changed the board from 'Sehwhack' to 'Idiot'. Yes he makes you think he's an idiot for throwing away his wicket when he was batting so well, but that's how he plays. The only player who never changed the way he played right from his debut till the end of his career.

My only regret is he didn't break Lara's record for highest individual score in tests, I believed only he could break it. It's really unfair that he didn't get a farewell series, he really deserved it. And, just like the way he played he will never mind about this as well.

The most relaxed cricketer who keeps humming songs while batting in any situation and gives nightmares to the bowlers. Bye bye Viru, you are rare and we will miss you.

Clouds Don't Pass - Abhishek Krishnan

Clouds Don't Pass, first time I am reading a novel written by someone I know very well. Right after receiving the book I was bragging to everyone "hey look, the author of this book, Abhiskek Krishnan, is my friend". The title and the book cover itself made me curious.

Abi, the lead character in this book is the author himself, his passion is cinema and he wants to become a successful actor and he can't think of any other career other than cinema. This book explores his college life, his struggle, love, his true friends and ends with an unexpected twist. Most of them were his experiences with some exaggeration and it also gets fictional in the later parts.

The book consists of three phases, the first phase was Abi's college life. It was fun and goes lively, thanks to his friends Chalu, Peri, Renjith and their "sights". She has a girlfriend, Shruthi, I really liked Shruthi's proposal and Abi's proposal scenes followed by some usual cliched romance between them and even felt little jealous. And, his first love with Shruthi ends in a breakup and the worst part is he didn't even know the reason.

The next part, 'the wait' is his struggle he went through to get a chance in cinema and how many morons took advantage of him during this period. Some of these people were unbelievably sick. And, this part was his real life experiences which should be a lesson to all those people who are trying to get a chance in cinema.

The third part, happens in Bangalore where reality hits Abi and he starts working in a call centre. He was more stable and has a new girlfriend Sushmitha, who works with him. And, things gets exiting towards the end where he finally tries to solve the mystery behind Shruthi. This is where I can see Abi, the screen writer, who cleverly throws us a few twists and turns. You can never guess you are heading towards this kind of a climax till the last chapter.

I really liked this book, it was light read and enjoyed occasional Tamil in an English book, especially to see the words like "machi" and the most used word in Chennai, “Otha”. Also, the print and paper quality was really nice which made me read this without any irritation. I am mentioning this because I liked this book's quality among the few I read recently.

You could have seen this author in a blink-and-miss role in Thirumanam Ennum Nikkah and he's currently acting in another feature film. Few sequences from this book, like how they help his friend Renjith and his lover to elope, proposal scenes, etc., will be interesting to watch in the big screen. I really wish to see him direct this book as a movie soon.

The Curse of Surya - Dev Prasad

The Curse of Surya is written by an unknown author (only to me, because he has already written one best seller, Pitch It) is a thriller in the lines of Dan Brown series. To be precise it was like Davinci Code, here the protagonist are in search of jewel which was lost some 5000 years ago.

Dev Prasad Indianized the Davinci Code, here a reporter from Singapore, Sangeetha and Davies were on a treasure hunt for a jewel Shyamantaka. This jewel belongs to the god Surya and it always brings bad luck to whoever possess it. It has its own history and also an exiting unbelievable power to that gem which makes it the most wanted treasure by people across the world.

The main character, Sangeetha, reaches India to cover one important function which was about to happen in Agra and Davies was here to attend an international conference in which a swamiji was supposed to reveal the place of the lost jewel Shyamantaka. All thing broke loose when there was a terror attack which kills the swamiji and Sangeetha and Davies are present in the event becomes the most wanted terrorists. And, they were on the run, followed by a police office Nisha and they start their treasure hunt with an old man Blanchard who helps them escape from the crime scene.

The writing was simple and easily to follow. And, the places mentioned are some of the most famous sites in our country and it was fascinating to know the history of these places. So just like Dan Brown, Dev Prasad also tells us about the history of each place where the story travels. Also, another book which has the history about Lord Krishna, the last book I read about Krishna was Krishna Key by Ashwin Sangi.

The places where Sangeetha tries to fool the police by booking a flight ticket to Bangalore was explained elaborately in more than one chapter which I felt absolutely unnecessary. The moment she tells the receptionist to book two flight tickets, we know she's trying to fool the police. We didn't need the detailed police investigation, then Nisha calling another policemen at Bangalore to go to airport to catch them, then Davies acting surprisingly as if he didn't get why she is doing all this. The whole part could have been skipped. And, I wondered how Sangeetha and Davies able to talk to each other under water with their scuba dressing.

The treasure hunt came to an end very soon than I expected, but then Dev had an interesting twist there. And, it has all other twists which were expected in this kind of a novel. Like starting the plot with a mysterious murder, good guy turning into a bad guy, bad guy turning into a good guy. The lead character Sangeetha was like an encyclopaedia, she knows about each and everything in this world or able to find a solution for anything somehow. But, it was refreshing to have a female lead like Sidney Sheldon novel.

The Curse of Surya is definitely a worthy Indianized Davinci Code, the history about the treasure was fascinating and their search was thrilling. And, this book is an absolute page turner, well done Dev, looking forward to your next.

Thani Oruvan - Fantastic

Thani Oruvan, Jeyam Ravi’s third movie this year. He teams up with his brother again, but this time not for a remake. It was surprising and exiting to see m something original from Raja.

It's a story of good vs bad, Ravi vs Arvind, cat and mouse game in which Arvindsamy was one step ahead of Ravi all the time. The chase gets interesting and thrilling frame after frame.

This is one movie where we didn't see many cliches. A charming villain without a six-pack. A love track which doesn't makes you yawn. A heroine character, for a change, which wasn't a comes-in-goes-exotic-location-dances-and-leaves character.

And, the casting and performances were excellent. Jeyam Ravi looked perfect as an IPS officer and Nayantara with an matured performance. But, the man who steals the show was Arvindsamy, a terrific, brainy, cool and suave villain. And a special mention to Thambi Ramaiyah where the director brilliantly infuses comedy into the movie with his character.

This is one movie in recent times where every department clicked. Direction, editing, cinematography, music everything was at their best. SuBa has done a wonderful job with the dialogues and the screenplay. This is their best work for me after Ayan. I really wonder how this combo didn't work well with Shankar in I. “Nalladhu mattume pannanum na KADUVALALA kooda mudiathu”, “ Love at first sight, kill at first betrayal”, few best dialogues and comes out of Villain Arvindsamy’s mouth.

The only thing which could have been different was Ravi gets to know Arvindsamy easily where no one else knows his real face. The way he came to know about his real face could have been told in a different way.

Thanioruvan is one movie in a long time where I didn't look at my watch even though it ran more than 2 hours and 30 minutes. It was like reading an interesting novel, but you wish it never ends. I wish they made this in two parts, where Siddharth Abimanyu wins in this and Mithran comes on top in the second part.

Raja as a director proves his worth with this after a series of remake. And, after two nonsense films this year Ravi also proves his capability. One of the must watch movies of this year.

My Rating - 4.0/5.0.

Scion of Ikshvaku - Amish Tripathi

The title itself was bit like a tongue twister, I heard the name more than once in the trailer they released before the book.

Author Amish Tripathi has found a formula like CB to write his books. For CB its friendship and love, Amish has chosen to rewrite the mythological stories. After his successful Shiva Trilogy, he is back to retell the most famous epic of our country Ramayanam. After Shiva he had chosen Ram this time. And, this one is like a prequel to Shiva Trilogy.

This book was nowhere near his first book of Shiva Trilogy, Immortals of Meluha, IMO. Shiva trilogy was brilliant he brought all the famous characters like Parvathi, Ganesh, Murugan, etc we know into the story beautifully with his own imagination. And, his first book of Shiva trilogy was page turner and took me to that era instantly. Scion of Ikshvaku didn't give me the same feel, this maybe because we are too familiar with the characters even though I haven't read Ramayanam before. But, some of the characters, like Lakshman's wife Urmila, was interesting to know since I didn't know much about her before.

In this book Ravanan was already a villain for Ram's father Dhasrath, he defeated him in a battle on a day where Ram was born. Ram had a tough time growing up since everyone hated him for his father's first defeat in his lifetime. I really liked Bharath character, I always felt like he's going to turn against Ram any moment, but he didn't. Amish didn't change much in his character or in Lakshman's.

The initial portions were very slow and it started to interest me only after the introduction of Sita's character. Once again Sita was a powerful female character just like Sati in Shiva trilogy.  Sita's introduction scene followed by Sita's Swayamvar where Ram wins obviously and a fight in which he defeats Ravanan's soldiers using a biological weapon were exciting parts to me. He exiles himself voluntarily for using this weapon against the law.

There was a reference to Delhi rape incident where Ram's own law was unable to punish the juvenile even though the victim was like his sister. Which didn't add anything to the story.

Ravanan was said to be a demon king in this as well. I don't think he's a demon, he is just a man with extraordinary talents than a normal human being. This book ends with introduction of our favorite character Hanuman and Ravanan kidnapping Sita.

I think there will be two more books in this series, I just hope he makes it more interesting. Also, I am interested in knowing what happens to Ram and Sita after Ram defeating Ravanan, will there be "Agni Paritchai" and also more about Urmila.

Puli Audio - Except Yendi Yendi, others Yenda Ipdi

Puli - One of the much awaited movie of this year for various reasons. Director Chimbudevan's music sense is well known and songs were always the weakest link in his movies so far. And, when its announced that DSP will be scoring the music, the expectation for this album has hit a very low to me. But, to my surprise the first teaser of Yendi Yendi was really good, and made us look forward to this album, maybe because Vijay's movies always manages to get good songs irrespective of the Music Directors.

Yendi Yendi - The only song which stands out from this album. Beautifully sung by Vijay, who's getting better in his singing in every movie, and Shrutihasan, who doesn't need any introduction. It's a beautiful melody and the guitar portions really stands out and this really doesn't like a song from DSP.

Yenda Ipdi - I wanna ask this question to our Rockstar DSP on hearing other songs. Even though each song has some really good singers like Mano, my favorite Chinmayi, Shankar Mahadevan and Tipu couldn't save any songs. Each and every song sound terribly old and the way the male voice sings in Mannavane really sound horrible to me. Jingiliya, Mannavane, Sottavala sound the same, except for that tribal sound in Jingiliya.

I thought DSP's bad album in Tamil recently was Singham II, this one was much similar to that. I really feel this film must have provided him with ample opportunities to experiment and try out different stuffs, but DSP sticks with his tried and tested boring songs and familiar sounds.

DSP's latest Telugu release, Srimandhudu, is much better than this, atleast it has some three songs I liked (Charuseela, Jatha Kalise, Jago). One of the worst album for a Vijay movie in recent times and as far as Chimbudevan is concerned this is much like his any other movies. Expected a different kind of songs for a movie which claims to be different, DSP and Chimbudevan disappointed big time.

Rating - 1.0/5.0. A boring, outdated album. 

Baahubali - An Epic Beginning

Baahubali, one movie I have been waiting for since 2013, yeah I have been following the updates about the movie since its started. Not a sudden fan of this movie. I was happy when they added Satyaraj sir in their cast and also when I came to know Madhan Karky will be penning the dialogues in Tamil. And, with each and every teasers they released (Imagining the world of Baahubali, First look of Prabhas and Anushka on their birthday) curiosity increased. And, the official first look with a child was mind-blowing.

The story was actually same as many epic movies with betrayal and revenge. But, the ending was really good with an unexpected revelation and make us wait eagerly for the next part which was slated to release next year.

Coming to the performances, I haven't seen much of Prabhas movies before so I couldn't connect well with the hero of movie, but he has really done a good work. Should watch his movies more before I watch the second part. But, Rana ( The Hulk ) impressed me a lot and he looks authentic as a warrior and a king. It's Satyaraj and Ramya Krishnan who steal the show totally along with Nasser sir. Except for Tamannah nobody looked artificial and have done their part really well. And, as SSR already said Anushka’s best is gonna come in the second part and she didn't have anything to do much in this.

One good thing about the movie is it didn't give a feel like watching a dubbed movie. It really looked like a proper bilingual. And, the CG works, except for one sequence where Prabhas and Tammanah escaping from a group of enemies in a snow-slide, all other scenes were mostly authentic and looked grand. 

Another important part of this movie is its BGM, the theme was struck in our mind when the trailer was released. Keeravani really elevates the movie with his fantastic BGM and also with some good songs especially, Irul Konda Vaanil and Moochile Theeyumai.

The Best portion of the movie should be the war sequence, the final 30 minutes. SSR brings out his imagination and executes it on screen perfectly. Each and every equipments he uses. Rana’s chariot, Prabhas’s brilliant way of using big stones and cloth from the tents to encounter the army where the whole theatre was awestruck. And, the ending really makes us look forward to the next part. It's the same feeling GoT gives where you have to wait one year for the next season to know what happens next.

Prabhas kept falling from the mountain and yet nothing happens to him, maybe he was really a god-like. The first half could have been shorter and some scenes were too unbelievable, but then we have seen those kinda scenes before and enjoyed as well. And, one item song in the second half which could have been really avoided.

The one thing that was in my mind while watching this movie was who's gonna make Ponniyin Selvan as grand as this in Tamil. I really wish it happens, maybe Shankar or Mani Ratnam or Selvaraghavan or Kamal or even SSR himself, but someone should do it soon. If not Ponniyin Selvan then any one of the Sandilyan's novel like Yavana Rani or KadalPura.

I am going to catch this movie again, maybe in Telugu in a big screen.

Rating - 4.0/5.0. A big thumbs up to VFX, BGM and SSR’s imagination.

Songs 2015 - My favorites so far

My favourite song of this year so far is "Iraniyan Nadagam" from Uttama Villain. Whatte lyrics, and his choice of words and also singing from Kamal sir, goosebumps guaranteed.

A R Rahman returned to from after a hiccup in Lingaa with OK Kanmani. And, it isn't surprising since he joined with Maniratnam and Vairamuthu. We have some more exciting projects from ARR on the way. (24, Gautam-Simbu, Enthrian2?, Mani's next?)

Harris, GVP and Yuvan have given at least one good album so far. (YA, Kaaka Muttai, VRV)

Santhosh Narayanan and Ghibran maintaining their terrific form as usual in this year as well and I am missing Sean Roldan who was among the top composers last year.

Top 3 Albums

Uttama Villain - Ghibran
O Kadhal Kanmani - A R Rahman
Yennai Arindhal - Harris Jayaraj

My Top 10 Favorite Songs

1. Iraniyan Nadagam - Uttama Villain
2. Naane Varugiren - O Kadhal Kanmani
3. Unakenna Venum Sollu - Yennai Arindhal
4. Ennodu Nee Irunthal - I
5. Sil Sil - Kaaka Muttai
6. Poo Avilum - Enakkul Oruvan
7. Vaaya Veera - Kanchana 2
8. Dandanakka - Romeo Juliet
9. Dangamari - Anegan
10. Isai Veesi - Isai

Other Favorites

• Lovea Lovea, Sagaavaram - Uttama Villain
• Kara Aatakara, Aye Sinamika, Theera Ula, Malargal - O Kadhal Kanmani
• Idhayathil Etho Ondru, Aadharu, Maya Bazzar- Yennai Arindhal
• Pookale, Ennodu (reprise), Merasalayiten - I
• Kadhale Kadhale - Indru Netru Naalai
• Karuppu Karuppu - Kaaka Muttai
• Naan Aval Illai, Piravi - Masss
• Prabalamagavey, Yendi Ipdi, Yaar - Enakkul Oruvan
• Vai Raja Vai, Pachai Vanna - Vai Raja Vai
• Im so cool, Kadhal Kan Kattuthe - Kakki Sattai
• Vaadi Rasathi - 36 Vayathinile
• Thoovanam, Araki - Romeo Juliet
• Yaar enna sonnalum, Vaa Vaa - Aambala
• Unnale, Anbe - Darling
• Nee Sunno - Nannbenda
• Azhaga Aanazhaga - Inimey Ippadithan
• Yen Intha - Rajathanthiram
• Natta Nadu Iravula, Un Kannukullara - Kaaval
• Karichan Kurivi - Sagaptham

Malayalam: 

Best Albums:

1. Premam - Rajesh Murugesan
2. 100 Days Of Love - Govind Menon
3. Mili - Gopi Sunder, Shaan Rahman

Top 10 Songs:

1. Malare - Premam (Most heard, viewed)
2. Malarvaga Kombathu - Ennum Eppozhum
3. Arike Pozhiyum - 100 Days Of Love
4. Enne Thallende - Oru Vadakkan Selfie
5. Manpatha - Mili
6. Ummarathe - Ivan Maryadaraman
7. Manjupeyume - Mili
8. Ee Kadalinu - Mariyam Mukku
9. Aluva - Premam
10. Kaanal Katte - Haram

Other Favorites:

• Malarvaga Kombathu, Thithimi,- Ennum Eppozhum
• Kalippu, Kalam Kettu, Red Velvet, Rockkankuthu, Chinna - Premam
• Hridhayathil Niramai, Ninnekaanan, Manjilkoode - 100 Days of Love
• Kaikottum, Neelambalin - Oru Vadakkan Selfie
• Mili Mili - Mili
• Mekkarayil - Mariam Mukku
• Ettum Pottum, Sarangiyil - You Too Brutus
• She is so beautiful - Lavender
• I Remember You - Nee-Na
• Nanayumee Mazha, Rathiri Mulla - Lailaa O Lailaa

Hindi

Favorites: Best Album (or most heard): Shamitabh

• Sha Sha Mi Mi, Sannata, Pidly, Ishq E Fillum - Shamitabh
• Move On, Banno, Old School Girl, O Sathi Mere - Tanu Weds Manu Returns
• Calcutta Kiss - Detective Byomkesh Bhakshi
• Moh Moh Ke Dhaage, Tu - Dum Laga Ke Haisa
• Mohabbat Buri Bimari, Dhadaam Dhadaam, Sylvia - Bombay Velvet
• Main Tujshe Pyaar - Baby
• Khoney De, Le Chal Mujhe - NH10
• Jee Karda - Badlapur
• Journey Song, Piku - Piku
• Dil Dhadkne Do - Dil Dhadkne Do
• Fashion Khatam - Dolly Ki Doli

Also, favorites among the few I heard in Telugu:

• Marhaba, Yenno Yenno, Gathama Gathama - Malli Malli Idi Rani Roju
• Beautiful Zindagi, Challa Gaali, O Kala - Yevede Subramaniam 
• Jil Jil Jil, Pori Masala Pori - Jil
• Anthapuramlo, Punnami Puvvai - Rudramadevi
• Nuvve Nuvve - Kick2

IEL - Indian Election League - Let's Play

This summer we have two big events happening in our country. One is the much awaited IPL and the other is something which comes once in every five years promising it will do a lot of change to the nation, IEL, Indian Election League.

The IEL season has already begun. This time Modi's BJP is looking like a strong team. No one thinks Congress going to win this election. But, who knows anything can happen.

I think in the history of India we had an acting PM for so long for ten years. I feel pity on MMS if congress loses this election he will be the first person to be happy I guess. And, I hope he's happy at the end of this election. 

I had a very high hopes on AAP once they won an election in Delhi, but they just lost everyone's confidence after resigning in just 39 days. Why Kejrival why? You can achieve a lot of things being a CM than what you have achieved by resigning. Now you want to be a PM, sorry Kejri I don't think you deserve this. I am angry only because you promised to be different from others and we expected a change from you. We thought we could witness the changes you can do during your ruling period in Delhi. If you could have made a difference I think AAP could have won big everywhere in the next parliamentary elections, now I have no idea where you will end up this time.

In our Tamil Nadu I have no idea what DMK and ADMK going to do if they win many seats. For ADMK our CM's aim is to become next PM which looks little unrealistic, but will be happy if it happens. DMK has only choice of getting back to Congress if they win big, again I don't think it will happen. BJP has a terrible alliance with DMDK, MDMK, PMK among them I respect only Vaiko's MDMK. Now I am reluctant to vote for them because I hate DMDK and PMK. And, no idea how Vaiko, a follower of Periyar is with BJP, but yes "Arasiyilla ithu ellam satharanamappa".

Modi had single-handedly given a huge boost to BJP. There are still debates on whether Gujarat really developed or not, but my only hope is if he becomes the next PM he cannot be as bad as our current PM even if he is bad.

Everyone must go and vote. I have booked my ticket to my native on the same day when the dates are announced. I feel it's the only power we have in our hand that we must use. And, I feel if you don't vote you have no rights to complain about the government. You have only one duty and if you can't do that don't blame the government if they fail in doing their duties. But, I don't see the enthusiasm in many people. They don't even know their candidates in their area. They only know the election's date that too because you get a day off. I hope this changes. Everyone should know about their candidates as much as they know about their favorite teams in the IPL. Everyone must choose a capable candidate rather than voting for their favorite party.

This IEL has already started which promises to be bigger than the IPL. The whole country should play this and there will be a new winner I hope.

Some Ridiculous Advertisements

 

Intha pullaiku ethuku da Fair & Lovely

Nowadays the advertisements for some of the products are really ridiculous. THE-MOST ridiculous ads are mostly for the following things Bikes, Deo, Vests and Fairness cream / Face wash.

Deo ads : In all the Deo ads each and every brand follow same concept. I think same ad agency is doing this for all deo sprays with different actors. Spray this and girls will fall for you. How ridiculous? Why every brand think deo's purpose is only this. Its all started by AXE and every other brands are too lazy to even think of any other concept and simply following the same. Pothum da dei.

Two Wheelers : No one make two wheelers to ride on our roads. They make them to ride in mountains, forests, on Arctic and Antartic regions, etc and not on our roads. Maybe they feel our Indian roads are like those regions. And, there will be a disclaimer on every ad, please don't try this. We are going to ride these bikes only in our roads, so stop advertising your bikes as a BatPod.

Vests : Vests ads are another ridiculous advertisements. Only after wearing this vest our heroes can do so many brave stuffs, he will save a girl, he will sing, etc. This is just an inner wear damn it. Ulla podra baniyanukku edhuku da ivlo vilambaram?

Fairness cream : On top of this list is Fairness cream / Face wash now targeting both Men and Women.

Every fairness cream ads say. If you are fair then,

you will get a good job.
you will get married or even you can avoid getting married and pursue your dreams.
you will perform well in any events.

Yes, they promise you can become fair in four weeks. If this is true we must have more white peoples than USA. Only Photo-shop can transform someone into white in four weeks, I don't think any creams can do.

And, they have successfully projected being black as a some sort of disease or deficiency, you will be worth for nothing and white as beauty.

After targeting girls all these years, now they started targeting the boys as well with one extra word, special-formula for boys.

One latest ridiculous ad for a face wash shows a guy was rejected in an interview because his face is oily. Adapavigala, yen da ipdi?

If they can really prove it why don't they use some real people instead of some models. We all know they are already beautiful.

Fair is not lovely. Fair is not handsome.

Itha vangi pala varushama use panniyum palan illainu terinjum yen use panranga nu teriala. Niruthanum ellathayum niruthanum.

Movies 2015 - Best and Worst So far

Last year by this time I have been to cinemas for 41 times and this time it's 59, thanks to my room-mates, will definitely reach 100 this year I guess.

Among the movies I have seen this year Premam impressed me a lot. And, in Tamil Kakka Muttai and Indru Netru Naalai. Mad Max Fury Road in English and Baby in Hindi.

Among the characters, I really loved Malar from Premam and also Chinna Kaaka Muttai from Kakka Muttai.

Best: I liked the most:

1. KaakaMuttai - Most probably best Tamil movie of this year.
2. Indru Netru Naalai
3. Rajathanthiram
4. Anegan
5. Yennai Arindhaal

Not Bad

1. Uttama Villain
2. O Kadhal Kanmani
3. I
4. Demonte Colony
5. Isai
6. Tamilukku En Ondrai Aluthavum
7. Masss
8. JK
9. CSK
10. 36 Vayathinile
11. Enakkul Oruvan
12. KakkiSattai
13. Inimey Ippadithan
14. India Pakistan
15. Yagavarayinum Naa Kakka
16. Darling
17. Komban
18. Vai Raja Vai
19. Purampokku
20. Aambala

Worst: Mudiala

1. Thannila Kandam - Worst movie of this year for me.
2. Valiyavan
3. Eli
4. Nannbenda
5. Romeo Juliet
6. Kanchana 2

Good Movies in English

1. Mad Max: Fury Road - 
2. Inside Out
3. The Imitation Game
4. Avengers 2
5. Ex Machina
6. Fast & Furious 7
7. Jurassic World
8. American Sniper
9. Birdman
10. Tak3n
11. San Andreas

Good Movies in Hindi, Malayalam

1. Premam (Mal) - Best movie of this year for me.
2. Oru Vadakkan Selfie (Mal)
3. Baby (Hin)
4. Detective Byomkesh Bakshi (Hin)
5. Shamitabh (Hin)
6. Badlapur (Hin)
7. NH10 (Hin)
8. Tanu Weds Manu Returns (Hin)
9. Dum Lage Ke Kaisa (Hin)
10. Fireman (Mal)
11. 100 Days of Love (Mal)

Malar - Malaree... En Uyiril Vidarum PaniMalare..

"Malare ninne kaanathirunaal, Mizhivekiya niramellam maayunna pole" 

Malar, a fictional character in Premam made me fell head over heels for her (trying to be Gautam Menon). None of the characters had made this much of an impact on me like Malar did. So many reasons made me love Malar and she's been driving me crazy since I saw the movie first time. Now I have seen it two more times just for Malar  miss and that Malare song video, lost the count on how many times I have seen it, my counter variable have overflown. Fantastic song with beautiful lyrics, singing and music and perfectly complemented with a brilliant video.

Before going into the movie I didn't even know her name. I didn't remember her face also even though I saw one pic in twitter. But, when she entered on screen and introduced herself as "Malar, en pera sonen", she just made me love her immediately just like how George (Nivin Pauly) felt at once after seeing her.

There's something unique in the way she speaks Tamil and her voice as well. It was very cute, the way she spoke her lines, "Sollamaten, sollamaten", "kadaisi number 6, maathi solliten", "enna pannittu irukenga?". Vizhunthuten. And, she isn't trying to be cute like few heroines who will irritating while trying to be cute and acts a loosu. She's the cutest and even her pimples adds more beauty.

I have already fallen for Malar and then comes the knock-out punch, her kuthu-dance. It was stunning, just like the way she stunned those three guys in the movie.  And, when I was watching for the first time it was a shocking surprise. That was really a mind-blowing kuthu dance I have seen in a long time. I wish they had one video with her dance movies alone for that "Rockankuthu" song. I just figured out later she danced in some reality shows and in fact Alphonse Puthren remembered her from one of the show and called her after seven years.

I have already downloaded every available picture of her on the internet and liked all the FB pages with her name and following her in Twitter as well. One more stalker for her. If the Wikipedia entry is right her hometown is very near to my native and she grew up in my native CBE as well, that's interesting. And, if this is true, "Her future plans is to complete the MBBS and return back to Coimbatore her home town and practice there", I am gonna get sick very often.

"Malare ninne kaanathirunaal, Mizhivekiya niramellam maayunna pole" - Malare, in your absence, all the colours decorated me are fading off. Lovely line from that Malare song in Premam and yeah even I feel the same and watching this movie again and again just for Malar. I have seen it thrice already I may watch it at least one more time in big screen.

Malar, a beautiful character in a beautiful film played by a beautiful actor. I am not gonna forget Malar easily. Thanks to Alphonse Puthren for writing such a character and also for casting a perfect Malar.

"Hi Malar.

Im Karthic.

நான் இத சொல்லியே ஆகணும். நீ அவ்வளவு அழகு. 

இங்க எவனும் இவ்வளோ அழகா ஒரு..

இவ்வளோ அழகா பார்த்திருக்க மாட்டாங்க..

And I am In Love With You.."

Premam - Azhage.. Malare..

Okay, we travelled some 35 kms to catch a Malayalam movie that too running without subtitles, which starts at midnight (11:50 pm) at Mayajaal and reached our room back in the morning 3:30. We were mad to do this, but we did it. We weren't disappointed, it was really worth it.

Premam, second movie from Alphonse Puthren who gave us a bilingual Neram, which really caught my eye and also introduced Nivin Pauly and Nazria to me. Premam is about Nivin's three stages of love. When he was in school, then during his final year of college and he was an adult. It was like Autograph, but this was even more fun.

Alphonse Puthren has given his best in his second movie. And, Nivin as usual he was  fantastic and it was really a treat to watch him on screen. I thought Oru Vadakkan Selfie is going to be the best of his movie this year, but this one was even better. 

First love was fun, where almost all the boys in her neighbourhood follows Mary when she leaves her tuition centre. And, she chooses someone else and Nivin ends up helping them in their love. This part was pictured in most beautiful locale. How green is Kerala, fantastic.

Second love was the best in the movie. It happens during his final year in college when he fell in love with a Tamil speaking guest lecturer Malar. She looks so lovely and her Kuthu dance was terrific that was literally stunning. If I have seen the title credits correctly, I think she's the one who choreographed the Rockankuthu song. Looking forward to see her in more films. And, there was another lecturer who loves Malar teacher one-sided. He was fun who even ask Nivin himself to help him and he teaches Mava sorry Java. Nivin’s rugged look in this part suits him well and maintains that “gethu”. And, this love ends in a tragic way.

The third and final part's love story comes with an unexpected twist. It may look bit too much, but you still got to love it. The director himself does a cameo in this part.

Music was really fantastic. Aluva and Malare songs were too good, especially Malare with Malar teacher. And, Scene Contra was a different love failure song. The interval looked forced as if just because it was mandatory like a strategic timeout in IPL when the team where going good. And, cinematography was rich and the director himself is the editor as well so that part was handled well.

All three ladies was beautiful, but we came out in love with Malar teacher. Nivin's two friends also come along with him throughout the movie and provide enough laughs. We got some 70% of the jokes, I wish they had released it in Tamil also like Neram or at least could have added subs, but never mind.

Easily the best romantic movie of this year so far. After OKK, this movie puts a smile on your face from the start until it ends and I loved this even more than OKK.

The movie’s running length was big, but you never feel it. Premam was like a long ride on a rainy day in an empty road with Raja sir songs for company. You just wish the ride goes on and on.

My Rating - 5.0/5.0. Not to be missed.

Kakka Muttai - Not a “0” its a “100”

When I saw this film’s poster few years back I thought it's gonna be another “soga” film which will be praised only by critics. And, when it started winning awards I thought I was right, but the trailer changed everything. And, then the songs as well. Finally, the movie itself was fantastic.

The boys were terrific, Chinna KM and Peria KM. Especially Chinna KM when he says “My name is KakkaMuttai”. Also, Ishwarya as their mom was excellent, never knew she could pull off this kinda character with ease. The movie is about the quest of the boys to eat Pizza in a Pizza shop which was opened in a place where these kids used to play and these boys have KakkaMuttai from a tree there.

These boys father is in a jail we never know why. And, we never get to know the names of these boys as well also their friends Pazharasam’s real name.

The good thing about this movie is even though it shows the struggle of these boys the movie was never dull. It had plenty of funny moments and comedy. Excellent wiring by the debut director.

The director himself have done the cinematography as well and he is brilliant in that too. GVP’s one of the best album in recent times and none of the songs interrupt the flow, the editing was crisp. And, BGM also does the job well.

We have to read between the lines to get the messages in many scene like, when Ishwarya gets the Free TV from ration shop another one was already in her home. Now they have two TVs, and when her mom-in-law asks about the rice she says no stock in the ration shop. EKSI, ration shop has enough TVs, but not the rice. And, when Chinna KakkaMuttai says “sathiama ulla vida matanga” when they see city centre for the first time, we laugh with him, but its sad. Also when he feels the AC for the first time. I never thought they would have never felt AC’s chill in their life.

This has to be the best movie of this year. It tells you more about the difference between rich and poor, people with power and he never tries to preach something. Also, unlike many award movies this movie isn’t melodramatic or doesn't have any forced sad ending.

Also this film brings Simbu on screen after very long time. Kudos to the producers as well for doing this film. One film Dhanush and Vetrimaran can be proud of producing.

Rating - 100/100. A must watch film.

IPL 8 - CSK turning out to be Srilanka of IPL

IPL 8 is over, once again it was CSK in the finals and once again they lost it. The new Champions are MI and now they have done it twice now. CSK is making this as a habit, losing in the finals. But, they were very inconsistent and it was a surprise to see them play in the finals. It's all Dhoni's fault I would say, persisting with out-of-form players like Jadeja, reluctant to change the combination and trying out new players like Pathan or Abott. And, Raina was not in his usual touch, he usually transforms into a superman once he wears the yellow this was very off season. But, Nehra ji surprised everyone with some inspiring performances.

MI on the other hand, started with 4 consecutive defeats just like last year, they were at the bottom of the table for sometime. To everyone's surprise they were the first team to reach the finals and to win it. Simmons and the pace attack Malinga and McClenaghan played a big part in their revival.

Some good moments in this IPL for me,

As usual CSK starts with a thriller in their very first game against DD, where Albie ex-CSKian almost pulled this for DD. With 6 to win he hits a four which lands few inches inside to give CSK a winning start and they were unbeaten for first 4 games until they met RR.

And, CSK's big hitter was Mac's this season and they depended on him heavily. In the match against SRH he hit a brilliant  100 and Dhoni in that match zoomed from 0 to 49, when Mac at the other end scored just four more runs (81 to 85). That was the best of Dhoni we saw this season.

There were many spectacular catches this season as well especially from Bravo, Simmons and Warner. The best one belongs to Southee and K Nair's catch against KXIP to get rid of Bailey, followed by Bravo's one-handed leap at the boundary to get rid of Watson.

MI was playing bad when CSK were at their best. Mac and Smith hammered MI at their home ground and chased their target 183 in just 100 balls. Wish, CSK have played similar to this in the finals as well.

MI's first win came against RCB, in that match when umpire warned Pollard not to talk too much with the opposite team he came with a plaster on his mouth. And, Gayle played an un-Gayle like innings which worked in MI's favor. Then, came ABD towards the end and who almost took the away from MI with a sensational 43 from 11 deliveries.

Bravo, apart from winning purple cap, he was brilliant in the field for CSK who took many unbelievable catches, but his ran-out Kohli during his own bowling was fantastic which was the turning point of that match. He showed unbelievable reflex just like the other day when he took Watson's catch near the boundary rope which was a turning point in that match.

This year's find of the IPL is Shreyas Iyer, kid who opened for DD and played fearless cricket who scored bulk of the runs for their team. I just hope he continues to play the same way in the next season as well and not a one-season-wonder like many others we have seen in the past years.

Sarfaraz Khan, another lucky kid who was 9 or 10 years old when IPL begun now shares the dressing room with the likes of ABD, Kohli and Gayle, with ABD walking off the pitch with his hand around this kid's shoulder. He played on good innings against RR, looking forward to this kid's batting next season.

CSK's biggest flop of this season must be our Sir Jaddu except for one good game with the ball and Negi played much better than him. He batted and bowled before Jaddu in most of the games.

Just like list of spectacular catches we saw too many dropped catches as well. That too from the fielders who took many blinders. Bravo, ABD, Duplessis, Mac, all these players dropped atleast one catch.

RCB's biggest enemy of this season was Rain, which affected most of their games. And, KX1 took advantage of it in a 10 over game and won it which was only their second victory also many games washed out which costs RCB second spot in the table.

Defending champions KKR was knocked out from the first round itself. And, in their match against MI which they choked in the last over. It was a surprise move from MI to bowl Pollard to defend 12 runs who haven't bowled any over in that match. He took the wicket of Yusuf in the very first ball who was playing well and bowled three dot balls to Piyush to win the game for MI.

Among the seniors Shewag and Yuvi continue to flop and Zak after missing most of the games he came back good. Among the foreign players Maxwell was biggest flop of the season along with his team.

Before the start of the IPL, I have predicted the top four teams and to my surprise the same top four teams qualified exactly in same order.

And, this time played some game online in twitter called vetti-betting. It started with 100 players and people get eliminated and I managed to play till the end. Look forward to playing and win some prizes next year. The thing is, I don't even any one of those 100 players, but many funny tweets in this hashtag #smk_betting.

I hope at least next year CSK wins the IPL, just reaching the finals is really not enough. Dhoni must not be too reluctant to change the combination and they must pick some fresh players in the auction.

3G to G3 - Apple to Android

After using Apple 3Gs for few years, I am back to Android. My very first smartphone, Xperia X8, was an Android phone which ran on an Android 1.6 version. My very first touch-screen mobile. Its 3-inch touch-screen looked so big in my hand.

It was so good to use a smart phone. Also, it was wonderful when they released an update in OS. I thought this would be the trend whenever a new Android OS is released, but they stopped updates for my phone after that 2.1 update. I was struck in that OS, unable to move apps to SD cards with my limited phone memory it was painful. Then, none of the apps was getting installed since they required OS version higher than mine and even the old apps were getting hanged or stopped with an error. Most irritating app was "Call", whenever I receive an incoming call the application "Call" will get crashed.

Then, came my first iPhone 3Gs. It was my sister's, I jailbroke it myself which took me two nightouts and it was worth it. I was able to install all the apps available outside the app store. It was smooth and touch response was fantastic. And, its minimal UI was a treat to use. Instantly addicted to iOS.

But, nothing was straightforward, you can't download a song and keep it as your ringtone in one go like we do in Android, which will be irritating in the beginning, but we will get used to it. And, you can't share pictures easily via Bluetooth, I couldn't figure out the purpose of Bluetooth in that phone. It was worth it, to have an iPhone that too jailbroken was fantastic. But, as usual I was struck with iOS 5.1 and the latest was iOS 8. I can't play any video files. As usual none of the apps was getting installed and not able to update any existing apps as well. It has become another Xperia X8 for me.

So decided to go for a new phone and was in a dilemma to go for an Android or another Apple product. After much analysis and research (!) decided to buy an Android which was worth the money I pay than the over-hyped-over-priced Apple and bought a LG G3. I was planning to buy Nexus 6, but it's too-big.

This one is a bada size phone with 5.5 inch screen and bada in every other hardware spec. It was running on KitKat and there was an update to Lollipop immediately. So far, it doesn't hang, apps are running smooth. But, haven't installed many games. Except for "Home" application crashing occasionally, the system doesn't get hanged. And, the internal memory of 32GB is sufficient so far. It has many cool features which LG have customized. I like some of the features like, bringing the phone near your ear to attend a call, flip your phone to skip track, call the one who messaged, take a selfie, etc. It has its own phone lock method, Knock Code, you just have to tap the phone even without switching on the screen, to unlock. These cool gimmicks makes this phone really interesting. And, yes this phone makes me take many Selfies. Also, I don't need any tab to watch movies while travelling, thanks to the screen size and its Quad HD resolution. With its Quick circle case, it allows to access few apps without even opening the cover, it's really cool. And, it has its mandatory power and volume buttons in the back making it look like a phone without any buttons which reduces its bezel area. I really enjoy using this phone.

I think I have made a right decision to go with an Android phone instead of Apple and this phone is really great so far. I wish it works in the same way for next few years and I hope LG provides me latest updates. Switching from 3G to G3, Apple to Android is proving to be a right decision.