Mugilpete

Plot: Raja falls instantly in love with Apoorva, who he sees at a wedding. They seem to have the perfect cutesy love story going between them. But what is it that has caused this perfect pair to drift apart?

Review: Mugil Pete has generated some buzz for some of its allusions to Crazy Star V Ravichandran's iconic film scenes that have been incorporated for his son Manuranjan, who now goes by the moniker Young Crazy Star Manu. Does this film generate the magic that his father's timeless love stories have? Yes, but only to an extent.

Mugil Pete is an old school commercial romantic entertainer, replete with a comic track, some fights, emotions revolving around parents, fights and of course songs for the lead pair. The filmmaker seems to have all the ingredients in place, but the narrative falls short, as the film, which is a little over two hours, seems stretched.

The story begins with the love-struck Raja, who is looking for his missing lady love. The narrative goes back and forth to bring in context - treating the audience to flashbacks of the perfect love story between Raja and Apoorva. What has led to this separation between the two and will they find each other again forms the rest of the story.

The film has its share of emotional tracks such as the bond one shares with his parents, friends and also features the official jester who has to help bring in comic relief - basically all the ingredients that one adds to what one identifies as a commercial film. Had the makers cut short on these commercial staples, especially the fights and some of the gags, the love story could have had the desired intense effect that it needed.

Manuranjan gives his all for the film. He excels in the romantic and comedy scenes, where he reminds one of his father in his heydays at times. Kayadu Lohar in her debut outing is impressive and has all the necessary qualities of the quintessential commercial heroine. Avinash and Thara impress in their roles as the parents of the protagonist.

Should you watch Mugil Pete? If you're a fan of old school commercial entertainers, then this one might be right up your alley.