After a 14-year hiatus, Tamil cinema’s beloved ‘Makkal Nayagan’ Ramarajan makes a grand comeback with “Saamaniyan,” a film that promises to be a heartwarming narrative of resilience and justice. Directed by R. Rahesh, known for his unique storytelling, the film is penned by Karthik Kumar, whose knack for capturing the essence of Tamil culture is evident in the script.
The music of “Saamaniyan” is a significant highlight, marking the reunion of Ramarajan with the legendary composer Ilaiyaraja after 23 years. This duo has previously given Tamil cinema some of its most memorable musical hits, and their collaboration in “Saamaniyan” is eagerly awaited by fans. Ilaiyaraja’s role extends beyond composition, as he has also penned the lyrics, adding a deeper layer of emotion to the songs.
The film features an ensemble cast with Radha Ravi and M. S. Bhaskar co-starring alongside Ramarajan. Their roles are pivotal, with Radha Ravi and M. S. Bhaskar’s characters joining forces with Ramarajan’s character in a plot that is as thrilling as it is moving. The narrative revolves around a villager in his late 50s or early 60s, portrayed by Ramarajan, who fights for a cause, setting the stage for a gripping tale.
The audience’s reaction to Ramarajan’s comeback in “Saamaniyan” has been quite diverse and interesting. Fans of Ramarajan, who have been waiting for his return, expressed their happiness and excitement. The announcement stirred a sense of nostalgia, especially among those who grew up watching his films.
Critics have noted Ramarajan’s commendable comeback, highlighting his ability to portray simple yet impactful characters that resonate with the masses. His performance has been described as fitting for a retired major, bringing authenticity to his role. While there is a general appreciation for Ramarajan’s return to the big screen, some reviews have pointed out that the film’s plot and exposition could have been more concise.
Despite this, his comeback is seen as a positive addition to Tamil cinema. Ilaiyaraja’s contribution to the film’s music and lyrics has been praised, with the song ‘Kannana Kanne’ being particularly noted for its emotional depth and relevance within the film’s context. Director Rahesh has crafted a film that addresses people’s issues and presents a gripping narrative. The film’s second half, in particular, has been praised for its engaging storytelling and impactful scenes.
Ramarajan’s daughter, Aruna, has expressed her thoughts on her father’s film “Saamaniyan” with heartfelt pride and surprise. She remarked on the unexpected change in her father’s principles to adapt to the current trends, which she found astonishing. Aruna highlighted the film’s success and the audience’s unwavering support for Ramarajan, noting that people are still flocking to theaters, proving that he hasn’t been forgotten.
Aruna shared an emotional moment when she sent a photo of herself with the movie’s poster to her father and congratulated him on the film’s success. She could sense the happiness in his voice over the phone. She also mentioned her brother, Arun, who is abroad and has yet to see the film but is excited about their father’s new journey.
She further commented on Ramarajan’s military get-up in the film, which reminded her of his younger days. Aruna is hopeful for her father’s continued success and looks forward to him choosing diverse and impactful stories in the future. She also noted that Ramarajan is not active on social media and rarely gives interviews, making his extensive promotion for “Saamaniyan” all the more special.
Aruna’s comments reflect a mix of pride, joy, and a touch of surprise at her father’s successful return to the silver screen with “Saamaniyan.” Her insights provide a personal perspective on the impact of the film and Ramarajan’s enduring appeal among fans and family alike.
In the film “Saamaniyan,” directed by R. Rahesh, there are several moments that evoke emotions, both positive and critical. The central plot revolves around three elderly men planning a bank heist in T Nagar. The entire city of Chennai is almost at a standstill due to their act, drawing widespread attention from the media and the public. However, the utter illogicality of how the heist unfolds becomes a point of contention.
The film asks viewers to believe that Sankara Narayanan alone can control the bank and everyone inside. Even when he takes away phones from all the customers present, the bank manager engages in a lengthy and loud phone conversation, surrounded by everyone. Such inconsistencies challenge the film’s credibility.
While Ilaiyaraja’s music isn’t as impactful as expected, Arulchelvan’s cinematography captures the unfolding events in an interesting manner. The female actors, despite having small roles, give their best. Overall, the film caters to audiences of all age groups, including the younger bracket.
In comparison to Ramarajan’s previous comeback film, “Medhai,” “Saamaniyan” fares better. It is more up-to-date and avoids the pitfalls of its predecessor. In summary, “Saamaniyan” combines nostalgia, illogical plot points, and emotional performances. While it may not be flawless, it still manages to engage audiences and serves as a testament to Ramarajan’s enduring appeal.