Ponmagal Vandhal (2020) is the first big-brand Tamil movie to get released directly on OTT (streaming service and not a theatrical release) and the first movie to release in over two months, while India is in a national lockdown over Covid-19.
The film had a lot going for it, a thriller story centred around a cruellest crime (child rape and murder), a heroine-centric courtroom battle led by Jyothika – a rarity in Indian Cinema, an array of Kollywood veterans including R. Parthiban, K. Bhagyaraj, Thiagarajan and Pratap Pothen and the pioneering opportunity of a digital release enabling a reach to millions of viewers worldwide. Unfortunately, a weak screenplay and uninspiring characters have let down the Director J.J.Fredrick in giving an engaging film. The first half-an-hour and the last were the only interesting portions.
For a thriller film, there needs to be an element of suspense and at least a few unexpected twists, Ponmagal Vandhal (பொன்மகள் வந்தாள்) didn’t have both. There were too many logic holes to count. The climax happens abruptly without any explanation on why it ended the way it did.
In summary, a good attempt by Jyothika and the team that should’ve come out a lot better. To encourage filmmakers in these tough times and to quench your thirst for new content, you can watch it.
Available on Amazon Prime Video.
Venkatarangan watching Ponmagal Vandhal (2020) in my hometheatre– பொன்மகள் வந்தால் (2020)
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