Production: Dream Warrior Pictures, SR Prabhu, SR Prakash Cast: Karthi, Nayanthara, Sri Divya Direction: Gokul Screenplay: Gokul Story: GokulMusic: Santosh Narayanan Background score: Santosh Narayanan Cinematography: Om Prakash
Kaashmora raised expectations ever since the first look of the film released. Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara fame, Director Gokul is back and this time, it's a dark fantasy flick along with a generous dash of humor. Karthi started this year with the super-hit Thozha, will he end it in style? Read on.
Kaashmora (Karthi), along with Vivek, Jangiri Madhumitha and co are a family of phony exorcists who feed at the ignorance and superstitious beliefs of common folks. The list of people who fall for their antics also includes bigwigs such as a cop and a crooked politician. One such gag gets Kaashmora to an eerie looking palace. After looting a lump sum, his family too somehow ends up in the same palace along with Yamini (Sri Divya), a researcher who aspires to make a thesis on the supernatural and paranormal activities.
On a another track, we get to witness a story that unfolds ages ago. A fierce, ruthless warrior general, Raj Nayak (Karthi again), eyes the kingdom's princess Ratnamahadevi (Nayanthara) and though her heart lies elsewhere, Raj Nayak decides to attain her no matter what. How both these odd worlds collide is the story of Kaashmora weaved by Gokul.
Right from day one, it was obvious that this film will put Karthi the performer to the test. It would be an understatement to call this film a milestone for the actor's career. In Siruthai, where he played double roles, his act as the crook was widely appreciated and well received for the humor content. We've gotten the same Karthi and a bit more in this flick in the form of the fraudulent exorcist Kaashmora. His expressions and gestures are a treat to watch, especially the pre-interval sequence, where he single-handedly brings the house down with laughter.
This is in direct contrast to the gritty Raj Nayak character that demands an aura of fear and respect, courtesy the rough demeanor, sarcastic looks and a devil-may-care attitude. The action scenes, especially the ones that showcase him running in slo-mo with his armor shows the man brimming with energy and vigor.
When compared to Karthi, the rest of the cast members have very less to offer. Nayanthara, who's screen space is less than what we expected, is unfortunately underused. Though she makes her mark on the glamour quotient, thanks to a song sequence and some stunning stunt works, audience couldn't have enough of the princess. Sri Divya doesn't bring much to the table apart from being a minor role that helps in moving the story. As far as the supporting cast is concerned, Vivek, Muruganandham and the broker character, aid in the constant flow of chuckles.
The biggest pillars of support for the film are the breath-taking visuals, splendid artwork by Rajeevan Nambiar, stupendous cinematography by Om Prakash, decent CGI and alluring costumes by Nikhaar Dhawan and Perumal Selvam. The third Zombie-esque character, made possible with 3D Face Scan Technology is a sure winner. V. J. Sabhu Joseph's cuts are decent. Be it the comical one liners or the strong ones from the period portions, dialogues deserve a special mention. Santhosh Narayanan's background music feels apt irrespective of the scenario, showing his prowess.
On the other hand, the story, which is pretty straightforward, takes its time to unravel. The story's tempo varies at places and it doesn't have as many laugh-worthy moments as Gokul's previous flick. Not to mention the fact that considering it's a fantasy flick, logic is the last thing one should expect.
Overall, Kaashmora is a commendable attempt to deliver an ambitious project made in a reasonable budget backed up by strong performances only to be hampered by a light-hearted script.
