Review: Jeeva lacks punch

Tamil film Jeeva lacks the unique touch that director Suseenthiran's works are generally associated with, says S Saraswathi.
Director Suseenthiran has an excellent track record.

Six films in six years, and with the exception of the Rajapattai fiasco, all his films have fared extremely well. 

He had two releases last year, Aadhalal Kadhal Seiveer and Pandianadu, and both were critically acclaimed, as well as commercial successes.

His latest film, Jeeva, inspired from real life incidents, gives us an insight into the cricketing scene in Tamil Nadu.

It delves into the dominance of one particular community in the game and how those in power can influence and manipulate the selection process, promoting only players of one community.

The film is co-produced by Arya's The Show People and distributed by Vishal's Film Factory. 

Vishnu and Sridivya, who made her debut in Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam, play the lead roles.

Jeeva (Vishnu) is a passionate cricketer with big dreams of playing for the nation one day. The film chronicles his life from the time he is little and into street cricket. 

Jenny (Sridivya) enters his life while he is still in school, as his new neighbour. 

They fall in love but, predictably, their love faces opposition from their parents, who feel they need to concentrate on their studies and career without any distraction.

Jenny is subsequently sent to her uncle's house to complete her education, while Jeeva focuses on his game.

He meets new friends, Ranjith (Lakshman Narayan of Bharathiraja's Annakodi) and Senior (Soori).  While family and romance take precedence in the first half, friends and cricket assume significance in the second. 

The film revolves around the character of Jeeva.

At two hours and seven minutes, with the primary focus being on romance, which is rather staid and unoriginal, and time devoted to family and friendship as well, there is precious little time to get into the crux of the matter. 

The director has used the narrative technique to keep the momentum going. He manages to capture some of the excitement on the field and reveals the harsh truths behind the game of cricket that forms such a huge part of the lives of youngsters in the country.

Fresh-faced and pretty, Sridivya is well-cast.  Soori provides some laughs, but he appears jaded and does not quite fit into the friend slot. 

Vishnu has given a commendable performance, showing the subtle changes as he matures from teenager to young adult.

His cricketing experience of course helps, as he appears quite realistic as he effortlessly sends every ball over the boundary.

Director Suseenthiran deserves credit for putting together an extremely good technical team. 

Music by D Imman, cinematography by R Madhie and editor Antony make sure there is never a dull moment. 

However, the film lacks the treatment that makes Suseenthiran's films unique.

While Jeeva may not be one of his best works, it is still worth a watch.

Rediff Rating: