28 April: Ponniyin Selvan 2, directed by Mani Ratnam, is the second part of the epic saga based on the historical fiction novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy. The film continues the story of the Chola dynasty and its intrigues, wars, romances and betrayals. The film boasts of an ensemble cast that includes Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, Trisha Krishnan and many others.
The film begins with Aditha Karikalan (Vikram), the eldest son of Sundara Chola (Prakash Raj), heading to Thanjavur to avenge his brother’s death and destroy Nandini (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan), the Pazhuvoor queen who is plotting against the Cholas. Meanwhile, Arunmozhi Varman (Jayam Ravi), the younger son of Sundara Chola and the titular Ponniyin Selvan (son of the river Ponni), is rescued by Oomai Rani (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan again), a deaf and mute woman who is actually Nandini’s mother and Sundara Chola’s childhood love.
Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan (Karthi), a messenger-warrior and a loyal friend of Arunmozhi, helps him and Karikalan to overcome the dangers posed by Nandini and her allies, such as the Pandyas and the Sinhalese.
The film is a visual treat with stunning cinematography by Ravi Varman, lavish sets, costumes and jewellery, and spectacular action sequences. The film also has a rich musical score by AR Rahman, who has composed seven songs for the film. The film has a lot of drama, emotion, humour and twists that keep the audience engaged throughout its three-hour runtime.
The film also has some brilliant performances by its star cast. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan steals the show with her dual role as Nandini and Oomai Rani. She portrays both the characters with finesse and nuance, showing her versatility as an actor. She is especially impressive as Nandini, who is a complex character with shades of grey. She is beautiful, charming, intelligent and cunning, but also has a tragic past and a hidden motive. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan brings out all these aspects of Nandini’s personality with ease and grace.
Vikram is also excellent as Karikalan, who is a brave and fierce warrior, but also a troubled and tormented soul. He has a love-hate relationship with Nandini, whom he loved in his youth but now despises for her treachery. He also has a rivalry with his brother Arunmozhi, whom he considers weak and unworthy of being the next king. Vikram portrays Karikalan’s anger, pain and guilt with conviction and intensity.
Jayam Ravi is charming as Arunmozhi Varman, who is the rightful heir to the Chola throne but does not aspire for it. He is humble, kind and generous, but also courageous and loyal. He has a love interest in Kundavi (Trisha Krishnan), the younger sister of Sundara Chola and Nandini’s rival. Jayam Ravi brings out Arunmozhi’s innocence, optimism and charisma with his natural performance.
Karthi is delightful as Vanthiyathevan, who is the comic relief of the film. He is witty, adventurous and loyal, but also impulsive and reckless. He has a crush on Poonkuzhali (Aparna Balamurali), a boatwoman who helps him in his missions. Karthi adds humour and energy to the film with his lively performance.
Trisha Krishnan is graceful as Kundavi, who is a strong and independent woman who loves Arunmozhi but does not impose her feelings on him. She also has a rivalry with Nandini, whom she considers evil and dangerous. Trisha Krishnan portrays Kundavi’s dignity, elegance and courage with poise and beauty.
The film also has some notable supporting actors such as Prabhu Ganesan as Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar (Nandini’s husband), Prakash Raj as Sundara Chola (the king of Cholas), Sarath Kumar as Parthibendra Pallava (a friend of Karikalan), Vikram Pr