Whenever there is a Mani Ratnam film , there is curiosity all over. The ace director’s latest film is ‘Cheliyaa’ which has the superb combination of Karthi and Aditi Rao as the lead pair.The story of the film is set during the Kargil war of 1999 where doctor Leela(Aditi Rao Hydari) falls in love with a fighter pilot named Varun(Karthi). The romance is kindled right away but Varun’s commitment phobic attitude keeps pushing Leela away from the relationship.
The twist in the tale arises when Karthi is jailed in Pakistan because of the tense war situation.
The first and foremost thing that hits you right away in Cheliyaa is the astounding camera work. Ravi Varman’s cinematography is just jaw dropping as the Kashmir visuals, Aditi Rao makes a stunning south debut. She looks drop dead gorgeous and Mani Ratnam has showcased her in a never before seen way. Aditi’s emotional performance is the backbone of the film as she delivers in both the glamor and acting departments.A R Rahman’s background score is yet another basic asset of the film. Except for two songs, A R Rahman’s music score is just about okay.
Cheliyaa is one of the best-looking films in the recent times and credit should go to the makers for choosing some amazing locations and spending the right money to get the air force setup look natural. Dubbing done for the film looks good and so were the simple and easy dialogues. The styling done for both the stars is stunning as Karthi looks apt in those army attires.
Coming to the director Mani Ratnam, he does an okay job with the film. His love for visuals, romantic conversations and music are intact in Cheliyaa as he showcases all these with a unique backdrop. Cheliyaa is one film which will surely draw mixed reactions. While one section of the audience will just love Mani Ratnam’ romance and taking, the regular audience will find it very hard to enjoy this serious romantic drama.
Director : Mani Ratnam
Producer : Dil Raju
Music Director : A. R. Rahman
Starring : Karthi, Aditi Rao Hydari
Rating : 3/5
