Abhay is a rehash

Kannada film Abhay works well for Darshan and his fans, thanks to well choreographed fights. But does that really mean the film is good?

Abhay is a fearless youth, who meets Arati on a flight to Amsterdam. He follows her and even begs for her love. But Arati has had a troubled past. She was forcibly engaged to a person who raped a woman in front of her. Arati discloses this secret to Abhay after she starts loving him.

Abhay discloses everything to the villain's gang, who come to Amsterdam to take Arati back to India. Of course, Abhay follows her, walks into the villain's house, beats him up and gets his love back.

This story will remind you of Telugu films like Sidhdharth-Ileana starrer Aata. The story writer Janardhana Maharshi, who is a well known Telugu film writer, rehashes the same story to create Abhay's story making only some cosmetic changes. Maharshi's previous films like Bindaas, Bombaat had a similar story which were borrowed from other successful Telugu films.

The only positive point about the film is Darshan's stunts, particularly in the climax. Darshan is lively as usual in his portrayal of Abhay. He excels in dances and fights and there is no scope for any emotion in the film. Ramesh Babu's camera work is good.

Mahesh Babu had said in an interview to rediff.com that he has exploited Darshan's talent in comedy but sadly, you don't feel this portrayal is anything great. Darshan was far better in a film like Gaja.

The film's heroine Arati -- who is a mother of two kids in real life -- covers herself entirely even in dance sequences! She wears the same expression throughout the film. Om Prakash Rao, who was so good in Parameshi Paanwala, is enjoyable as Nokia Shashtry.

Surprisingly, music director Hari Krishna's musical work is several notches below what he has done in films like Gaja and Raaj, The Showman.

Abhay is strictly meant for Darshan fans.

Rediff Rating: