Starring: Vishnu, Saranya Mohan, Kishore
Director: Susindhran
Music: V. Selvaganesh





Quite a while ago, sports-based films created news and made money. Though inspired by many similar blockbusters, Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu is impressive in a refreshingly original way. Debut director Suseendran has made the film with a well-prepared storyboard. His clarity in terms of approach and presentation of the same are evident.

Marimuthu (Vishnu) is a nondescript resident in a remote village. Mari's only interest is in the local sport kabaddi. Whenever he finds time, Mari keeps playing the game, enacting the roles of the different players in the participating teams and trying to incorporate some smart winning tricks with his own style. His friends form a group named Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu and participate in contests, but Mari never gets a chance to play as a representative of the group; therefore his passion and skill for the game do not get revealed.

When he accompanies the team to a nearby village for a contest, Mari gets a chance to substitute one of the players in the team. Despite Mari's efforts, their team loses the game. But eminent kabaddi coach Sowdamuthu (Kishore) witnesses the game, recognizes Marimuthu's skill, and compliments him. With that strong feeling of recognition under his belt, Mari meets a sweet girl (Charanya Mohan) at the temple carnival. Even though both of them do not get a chance to move closer, an inexplicable feeling of affection and affinity sparks off between them. Mari gifts his locket to the girl as a memorable memento, a proof of his love.

In the next kabaddi tournament in which Mari takes part, Sowdamuthu witnesses Marimuthu's exceptional skill in the game. To offer his support, Sowdamuthu adopts the Vennila team and trains them rigorously. But instead of returning triumphant after a thumping win, the team meets with a tragedy and an unbearable loss. What is it? Does anything tragic happen to Marimuthu? If so, then what happens to the girl and the young pair's unexpressed love? Does she return looking for Mari? Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu's climax leaves us with a heavy heart.

The main credit of making the film a grand success goes to director Suseendran. His story, screenplay, casting as well as characterisations are very well planned; Baskar Sakthi's dialogues and Lakshmankumar's camera add more appeal to the presentation.

Debutant Vishnu has done extremely well in his role. His is indeed a fitting performance with no fumbling. Charanya Mohan's role is subtle, yet touching. Surrounded by newcomers, experienced Kishore's balanced performance leaves an indelible mark. Legendary Ghatam player Vinayakram's son Selvaganesh's music as well as re-recording are good.

Some touching moments we see in Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu continue to linger on long after the film ends and that precisely is a proof to the film's success.