Velai Illa Pattadhaari 2 aka VIP2 was one of the most awaited movies of the year. The sequel to Velai Illa Pattadhaari, the film has been creating a buzz ever since its trailer was release. This has been the case especially because the film saw Kajol making a comeback in Kollywood after almost two decades. Sadly, even with such an exciting and talented cast, the film failed to deliver. This film is sure to please Dhanush fans as it solely rests on his shoulders.
VIP2 follows the adventures of one of Dhanush’s most loved onscreen characters, Raghuvaran, from the original Velai Illa Pattadhari, which struck a chord with large number of audience, due to its relatable lead character. There is certainly nothing new in this movie, except for the fact that Raghuvaran has matured since we last saw him and has become an established civil engineer, who is married to a girl named Shalini (Amala Paul). Directed by Soundarya Rajinikanth and penned by Dhanush himself, the plot then proceeds to build around Raghuvaran’s company and him locking horns with nasty corporate world and one in particular, Vasundhara Parameswaram, played by Kajol.
The film after this follows a predictable curve. Raghuvaran and Vasundhara’s interactions become gimmicky and far from natural delivery. Even though Kajol blends into the character of Vasundhara, as a stubborn, arrogant, business mogul with ease, her character failed to impress the audience. She was unidimensional and the boasting along with her arrogance was tiresome after a point. It is a shame because the filmmakers could have utilized such a talented actress as Kajol for more panache.
Shalini played by Amala Paul, is now the caregiver of the family after Raghuvaran’s mother (Saranya Ponvannan) passes away. She keeps everyone on their toes and has been written to nag Raghuvaran up to appoint of irritation. The nagging part of Shalini was overwritten and frankly it becomes a source of indignation, even for the audience.
The role of the father, played by Samuthirakani, has been well written and well played. He is now more of a friend and guide, the role that his mother played when she was alive. The film does overplay the mother sentiment a bit, but a scene on the terrace mirroring a similar one from the first film, still manages to be heartwarming.
Sean Roldan is proving his talent as a composer film after film. Anirudh Ravichander’s background score is unforgettable and he was able to hold on to the original film’s music without being too obvious. The songs were foot tapping and perhaps the only thing that will linger with you after watching the film.
VIP2 lacks the punch that VIP was able to bring onscreen. The film has been poorly written and lazily executed. The director and the writer totally based the film on the success of the first part and gave us a story that we have seen a number of times before.
For Dhanush fans this film is a delight, as the actor solely carries the film on his acting chops and screen presence.
