Positive is confusing

Director V K Prakash's Malayalam film, Positive, could have been a compelling film, as it is written by S N Swamy, the writer famous for his thrillers (especially the CBI series). Besides, being the stylish ad filmmaker-turned-feature film director that he is, you expect a stylish musical from Prakash, as the film is about a music band. But the film is not a murder mystery or a crime thriller or even a musical.

Positive is about the members of a rock band. Jayasurya makes his entry as the prospective groom for the female vocalist of the band and later, as the investigating officer of a crime in which the members of the rock band are suspected to be involved.

Veteran writer Swamy's presence is felt once the circulation of counterfeit currency becomes the centre of the story. This leaves the director to show off his style only in songs, which serve as speedbreakers, slowing down the story.

As far as performances go, Manikuttan -- playing the band's drummer Udayan -- has a few scenes where he gets a chance to shine. Suraj, of Notebook fame, also has a few moments to show off his histrionic capabilities. 

The three debutants Ramesh Pisharody, Vani Kishore and Ayilya don't have much to do. But Vani Kishore, the band's vocalist -- captures our attention once in a while.

Jayasurya is the surprise package of the film even though he is robbed of his trademark humour. He holds himself up against the likes of Sai Kumar and T G Ravi, who are surprisingly humourous in the film.

In the end, we wonder what the title Positive really means in the context of the film. The film leaves you confused and untounched.

Rediff Rating: