Expectations ran high with Prem's fourth directorial venture, Preethi Eke Bhoomi Melidhe, as his previous ventures were  huge hits. His earlier three films made him one of the top Kannada directors. This time, not only was he directing the film but making his acting debut as well.

But what a disappointment! It is sad to see such a colossal waste of money on a film like this.

Producer Ram Prasad, who had produced Prem's earlier superhit, Jogi, has spent a fortune on PEBM. But the tragedy is that he had not cared to look at the finer points of the script before venturing into production. The script is the weakest link in the film. As is the music by Patnayak.

The story revolves around Chandra, a tout in a city bus station, who feels that there is a lady waiting for him somewhere in the world. Sowmya, who lives in a village, also believes that a boy is waiting for her somewhere. She comes to city to attend a musical programme. But right up to the end, it is not clear what happens to the couple, leaving the audience very confused.

Prem fails both as actor and director. Even talented artists like Sudharani and Ramesh Bhatt are wasted in the film.

The less said the better about the two heroines. Prem has made excellent choices before with Ramya (in Excuse Me) and Jennifer (in Jogi). However, this time he went terribly wrong.

Sharan's comedy lacks punch. In fact, the comedy sequences do not get any laughs. Raghuram, who was great in Jogi, cuts a sorry figure here.          

M R Seenu's photography is the only saving grace.  

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