Tsunami wreaks havoc on Tamil films

Chennai, Jan 31 (IANS) :The verdict on the Pongal releases in Tamil Nadu is out. And it is a huge disappointment. Vijay's "Thirupachi" was perhaps the only one that managed to escape the tsunami onslaught, but even this film could not sustain the initial pull.

It was a period when all tried and tested phenomena failed - be it Sarath in a double role or superb action by Prashant. The only film that came out winner is first-time director Balaji Sakthivel's "Kaadhal".

"Thirupachi": It was exactly like any other Vijay film, the same action scenes, similar sentiments and dance sequences and even the same heroine. Although it fared better than the other Pongal releases, it failed to recreate the old magic at the box office.

"Kaadhal": This small love story from Shankar's production house is winning hearts all over Tamil Nadu, catapulting hero Bharat into the league of big actors.

"Devathayai Kandein": Nobody expected this film with its jaded look to overtake the Sarath Kumar-starrer "Ayya". But it did. For actor Dhanush, it is a jolly good wedding gift!

"Ayya": It had all the ingredients of a super hit - director Hari, producer Kavithalaya and hero Sarath Kumar that too in a double role. But the film bombed, despite Sarath Kumar's high-spirited performance. Perhaps, times have changed!

"Aayudham": One more flop to Prashanth's list. He might have delivered some excellent kicks and chops in the film, but this old wine in a new bottle formula, was completely rejected by the audience.