Tamil Review: 'Raatinam' depicts power of love

Well-made love stories always manage to leave an impact with the masses. At regular intervals come such movies and set a trend in the industry. The one for this season is 'Raatinam'.

Directed by Thangasamy, the film set in Tuticorin is all about romance, the hurdles the lover couple face and sacrifices they have to make. The twist in the tale towards the climax sets the premise for the entire film.

Thangasamy has carefully chosen to stay away from cliches. More story-driven, the film has everything to entertain and keep engrossed the movie-lovers. With almost everyone new to the camera, Thangasamy has managed to extract the best from them. They get involved with their respective characters and play their parts well.

Also choosing Tuticorin as the backdrop has helped the filmmaker create an impact among the audience for the setting is fresh and new to Tamil cinema, which had seen many love stories in Madurai and Chennai. 'Raatinam' provides fun in the first half and makes you feel for the couple in the latter part. Newcomers Lagubaran and Swathy fit the bill well and their onscreen chemistry does the trick. Produced by Rajarathinam Films, the movie has music by Manurameshan and cinematography by Raj Sundar.

Jayam (Lagubaran) is a fun-loving youngster who falls in love with a plus two student Dhanam (Swathy). Her uncle is an advocate and brother a police man. Jayam's brother Ashok (Thangasamy) is into politics. Dhanam and Swathy love each other. They witness a tough situation when they get caught by police. Coming to know about Swathy's family, both are allowed to go. But the police official informs their families. There begins the troubles. The couple elopes that adds to all problems. But there is a twist in the form of a realistic and riveting climax.

Lagubaran and Swathy are tailor-made for the roles. They look best suited for the characters. Their on-screen chemistry deserves a mention. A host of others in the movie chip in with their best.

'Raatinam' is a movie that is entertaining and is an honest attempt.