Suseendhiran’s Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai had the rustic setting that is far removed from the grime of the city in every sense, the hero with the unprepossessing looks but with the mandatory thangamana manasu, a heroine who loves the said manasu (but surely not that hairdo?), the fat, garishly attired sex maniac who is into large women in a big way, amusing village superstitions, and finally the requisite obstacles that stand in the way of true love. But all this notwithstanding, Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai had a fresh feel to it and was wonderfully engaging. The simple feel – good story did succeed in warming the cockles of your heart and sent your spirit galloping faster than Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai.

Trade talk: The film worked despite the unconventional premise and this may be attributed entirely to the genius of Suseendhiran and the power of good storytelling.

Public opinion: The public appreciated the humor, simplicity, and the inherent charm of Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai.