Review – 60 Vayadhu Maaniram

Film: 60 Vayadhu Maaniram
Director: Radhamohan
Cast: Prakash Raj, Vikram Prabhu, Indhuja, Samudrakani, Elango Kumaravel and others
Music: Ilaiyaraaja
Cinematography: Vivek Anand

Director Radhamohan proves with 60 Vayadhu Maaniram that he rightly deserves the title of being called a film maker who makes meaningful cinema. The director delivers yet another gem in the form of 60 Vayadhu Maaniram, which is brought to life primarily because of the screenplay and the performances of three exceptional and two good actors.

Prakash Raj happens to be the first of the three exceptional actors. His understanding with Radhamohan has always been great as was seen in Mozhi and it seems that understanding has come in handy while making this film too. Prakash Raj, like so many other times before, comes up with a sterling performance in this film. His performance as Govindharaj, a 60 year old professor afflicted by Alzhiemer’s disease, is just way too good. Despite losing his memory, what Govindharaj does not forget is his son and his welfare. The actor does a brilliant job of portraying an Alzhiemer afflicted dad who is more concerned about his son than about himself.

Vikram Prabhu as software professional Shiva, who initially does not understand the depth of his father’s love, but who goes on to realise its significance over time, is just perfect. In fact, this is a film that will revive Vikram Prabhu’s fortunes in the industry and is likely to clear any doubts critics may have about his potential to do credible roles and deliver winners at the box office.

Indhuja, who wowed audiences with her performance in Meyaadha Maan, showcases a completely different facet of hers in this film. She plays a soft-spoken, firm doctor, who is level headed at all times. It is hard not to take note of her performance and that by itself is a big compliment, considering the fact that she is sharing screenspace with giants like Prakash Raj, who have the ability to command the complete attention of viewers with their powerful performances. In short, Indhuja comes up with a winning performance.

Samudrakani is the next actor who delivers an exceptional performance as Ranga, a henchman who has a change of heart. Kani’s performance is so apt that after a point what one sees on screen is just a henchman in a moral dilemma.

Elango Kumaravel, who is seen in all of Radhamohan’s films, does a fantastic job as Rajappa, a middle-class man working as a manager in a firm to make ends meet, in this one. One wonders why one doesn’t see Elango more often in films as this man is one of the most talented actors in the film industry. It is a pity that this industry is yet to put to good use his acting skills, which could enrichen any film. Elango’s comedy is brilliant and rib-tickling. It isn’t obscene and the timing is just perfect. It is genuinely funny. Thanks to his role as Rajappa, the film’s humour level never goes down and 60 Vayadhu Maaniram never turns emotionally draining or boring. He is the third exceptional actor on whose shoulders the film rests.

Radhamohan seems to have mastered the art of telling good stories that can be enjoyed with the entire family. At the same time, he also ensures that his films send out the right messages. In 60 Vayadhu Maaniram, the director puts across the point that what matters most in the world is the love inside a human being. More importantly, it is not enough if you have love, you must also show it.

The verdict: 60 Vayadhu Maaniram is a brilliant, fun filled entertainer that also has a meaningful story. Don’t miss this one for anything in the world!