There are some films that are hugely expected only because of their directors' previous attempts. Sree was one such. Many in the Kannada film industry had expected to deliver in a big way. Young director Prakash, who had proved a point in two of his films -- Kushi and Rishi -- was at the helm once more, and major portions of the film had been shot in Bangkok.

Though it was touted as an action thriller, the expectations were that Prakash would package the film with his own narrative technique generating some settled humour, gentle sentimental touches and neatly choreographed song sequences.

Sometimes, huge expectations may prove counterproductive.

Sree does not stand up to expectations, mainly because of a weak script and nonexistent story. Its focus has been on picturisation, and popular Thai folk fights. And the story has taken a backseat. The result is it peters down as an ordinary action thriller. Sadly, the same film with a different, unproven director could have been perceived in a different way, and might even have won some laurels for high quality technical work.

Coming to the film's good points, it is to be said that the action portions have been shot extraordinarily well. Kudos are due to the hero Vijaya Raghavendra and the technical crew. The fights, composed by a Thai stunt director and Ravi Varma, are the main attractions here. The songs are also well-choreographed, particularly Deepa Hachchi.

The main weak point is the script. It looks as if the story has been doctored to suit the five or six fights. The fights are not part of the story, so the latter simply becomes an extension of the fights. Even the dialogues are uninspiring and the loosely knit sequences fail to make an impact. All of which is surprising considering the director Prakash had shown a lot of promise and a tight hold on narration with his earlier work.

There are many inconsistencies and illogical sequences. Prakash could have done a little homework while writing the script. How is it, for instance, that the investigators from Bangkok are all from India?

Vijaya Raghavendra has shown a lot of determination in learning the Muvay Thai folk fights and his action sequences look terrific on screen. Jennifer, who made her debut in a sensational film like Jogi, fails to make an impact here. She wears glasses in the film, which makes her look older on screen. She is a good dancer though. Surprisingly, an actor of Anant Nag's calibre also fails to deliver in his role of Chief Investigator. Bollywood actor Rahul Roy is also wasted. As for Doddanna's comedy, it has more pain than fun.

Sree is a film for lover of action. But is it enough from a director like Prakash?