James

James Plot: Santhosh Kumar, who goes by the name James, runs a security agency and has been commissioned to take care of a family that owns a drug cartel. He is swift, agile and deft with his work and wins the appreciation of everyone. But is there more to who Santhosh really is?

James Review: Expectations are multifold from James, which marks late Puneeth Rajkumar's last outing on the big screen as a leading man in his Power Star avatar. The teaser showed the promise of a slick thriller, while the team chose to not have any trailer and wanted to keep the visuals as a surprise for fans. Eventually, James does justice as it allows fans to see Puneeth in an all-new avatar and he shines bright in every frame in his most stylish outing of his film career.

The film begins at a quick pace, with a series of things taking place that showcase the dark world and the drug cartels functioning in the country. It also introduces the different players and one gets to understand the politics and dynamics in the sector. When one of the drug lords is killed, Santhosh Kumar enters, who runs a security agency; he comes to the aid of his family. From here begins a thrilling ride of fights and a bit of romance, with an intriguing plot twist at the interval.

While an emotional tale unfolds in the second half, this is the only place that might have a slight lag, but the action picks up soon enough. James is the perfect treat eventually for people who want to cheer, hoot, whistle and even dance along with Puneeth in his true massy avatar on the big screen for one last time. The stylish presentation, slick action sequences and the extremely big ensemble cast ensure that the film has enough and more to keep them glued.

And what's a Puneeth Rajkumar film without some surprises? There are some interesting cameos, too. The introduction song has three leading ladies from the industry - Rachita Ram, Ashika Ranganath and Sreeleela - making a surprise appearance in the film as they shimmy in their sexiest best. The much-anticipated cameos of Shivarajkumar and Raghavendra Rajkumar ensure an emotional touch to the film. And one must say that Shivarajkumar's dubbing for his late brother is perfect.

The end credits too has something in store for Puneeth fanatics, as there is his complete filmography, from his acting, singing television and ad stints. For all of who wanted to see their favourite Appu in his Power-packed Star avatar one last time, James does not disappoint. There are shortcomings, but this film eventually hits the bull's eye in the heart for fans.