DEJAVU MOVIE REVIEW CLICK TO RATE THE MOVIE

Deja Vu has Arulnithi starring in a thriller again. Actors being typecast might give a sense of boredom. But Arulnithi in a well-made thriller is always a joy to watch. The plot begins with a writer who writes down a sequence of events before they actually happen. Is he really able to foresee the future or is it all a lie? The film answers this question in a gripping manner. The story does take its time to settle in. But once it does there are no speed breakers till the end. The choice to let out songs ensures that film doesn't slow down at any point.

The casting of Achyut Kumar as a writer is a refreshing choice. He lives the role of the alcoholic writer to perfection. The fact that he is rarely seen in Tamil cinema lends to the air of mystery around him. MS Bhaskar's voiceover is an added attraction. It is almost as if two seasoned performers joined together to give the audience a memorable experience.

Arulnithi - He brings out the aura and the swag of the police officer without resorting to gimmicks.  In fact, he comes into the film only after the story is set in motion. It is good to see a hero give up on all the template elements that are usually reserved for a hero. His familiarity with the thriller settings also helps us to connect with him instantly.

Kaali Venkat shines in a brief role. I have always felt that his voice is a major plus. In this one too he uses his voice to his advantage. Actress Madhoo actually tries her best in a very pivotal role in the movie but somehow the performance doesn't draw you in.

Ghibran's background score further enhances the mystery around the proceedings. He keeps the suspense and the tension alive with his music.

Though there are twists till the very end the lack of emotional connection with either of the victims is a major negative. You don't feel the tension that a major character in the film feels for a missing person.

Despite these negatives it is a very promising debut for Arvindh Srinivasan who shows a lot of potential in his first film. Letting go of the unnecessary commercial elements and the songs is a bold move by a first time filmmaker. Thankfully it works in the film's favour.