What do you call a film that is terribly confused and actually not sure of what it wants to deliver? What would you term a film that is not sure of itself and that switches from one mode to the next, hoping all the while to eventually deliver the goods? You call it 'Film Star'.
We begin with the impression that this is going to be a film about a wannabe scenarist Nandan (Dileep) who has been striving hard to read out his script to Superstar Surya Kiran (Kalabhavan Mani) for the last couple of years. Finally he does meet Surya, but is shown the door in no time. Dejected he disappears, leaving the script with the actor.
Shaping a career in films could be a tough game indeed. But imagine your surprise when you realise that this movie isn't about film making at all. Its about more critical issues like expansion and its pitfalls, and at a deeper level, plain exploitation.
Confused? Nandan has scripted a film based on his own life, and how he and his fellow slum dwellers were forcefully displaced from their homes, when a factory was established n their small village. Those who had opposed the establishment had become martyrs, and Nandan himself had lost his hearing and half a leg.
Surya Kiran decides to film the script, and the actor along with his crew heads for the said village to start shooting. For those of you, who wonder if the actor hasn't heard of shooting sets, let me tell you that Surya Kiran has some ulterior motives in mind.
The first few minutes of the film has none other than Suraj Venjarammoodu in the role of a car thief, and you wonder if this is going to be a crass comedy. No, its not, as Suraj Venjarammoodu vanishes without a trace, making us wonder if his was a cameo appearance.
Talking of cameos reminds me of Dileep himself, who does just a little more than a guest appearance. I am still at a loss as to why he had agreed to do the role in the first place; a role that could easily have been done by any supporting actor. Salim Kumar too makes an equally brisk entry and exit.
You remind yourself that is a movie that deals with movies, when you see Rambha on screen playing herself. Fans, do not keep your hopes high, since she's there barely in a song and in another scene. Mukta George is there as well, in a much lengthier but not necessarily a meatier role.
I do agree that a superstar who is busy doing commercial masala flicks might dress gaudily for his films. But what excuse does Kalabhavan Mani have for those showy, gross costumes that he otherwise flaunts on and off the sets?
Film Star is an utter disappointment all the way. As an entertainer it neither entertains and as a film it neither interests nor inspires.