130 reviews
I am a sucker for mass films and typical heroism, I admit it. Even I am one of those who eagerly wait for a Rajni film and watch the trailer over and over to get that feel before the release. I did the same for Kabali and I also avoided listening to naysayers despite the bad feeling I had from my previous outing with Linga. So I went to the theatre with minimum expectations on the story and logic, but I did expect it to be an out and out Rajni film.
Watching Kabali for me was an inner struggle between the fan in me and the critic. Just as much this movie struggles to find the balance between the actor and superstar Rajni. As the 'SUPER STAR' flashes on screen with the Kabali theme music, excitement runs through the movie hall. It is followed by 'Sivajiesque' introduction scene in the jail. It feels good to see him doing push ups even at this age. The fan inside me buckles up for a Rajni ride. Whistles follow as the Rajni dances a few steps in the introduction song. As the movie plot begins to shape up the cinema lover inside me wonders as if it is picking up somewhere from the middle. The so called gangster cum social worker Kabali looks for some answers and payback as he is out of jail. There is always a herd of people around him as he walks, eats, drives and give speeches at his Free Life Foundation (please don't ask what it's about). Random scenes follow with some flashback thrown in. The critic in me starts to think why all this is happening, but the fan in me asks the critic to wait for some more time. I sit there hoping for a typical South Indian movie flashback which cooks up a good and a brutal revenge story. I see random villains trying to kill Kabali but with not much of a zeal or a structured plan. As the movie runtime comes close to an hour, the audience have seemed to lost the enthusiasm as well. They no more shout, whistle or clap when they see Rajni uttering some punchlines. We all see Rajni on screen, but we only see bits and pieces of Rajniism but not too convincing. As the flashback part of the movie begins, it takes a political turn and yet once again it isn't convincing enough. At this point of the time the critic and the fan in me both start wondering what is happening. As more and more characters get introduced it only adds to the confusion and I wait for the break which is something I wouldn't have hoped watching a Rajni movie. The scene leading to the interval doesn't make any impact to make the audience curious and eagerly wait for the second half.
With minimum expectations I start watching the second half not bothering a bit about the story. The fan in me begs for some punchlines and some typical Rajni fights. But the film takes a diversion as Kabali sets to find his wife (very neatly played by Radhika Apte) along with his daughter (a tomboy character played by Dhansika through which director wants to show that he is all in for equal opportunities). This part is an episode in itself. So I feel that earlier the movie ends, the better. Judging by how other audiences react I feel they too have the same opinion. Once again the antagonists surface to hurry an action packed climax. This is the part where probably director Ranjith wants something to give to the Rajni fans. Out of nowhere Rajni gathers an army and comes up with a strategy to face the antagonists played by Kannada actor Kishore and the international actor Winston Chao. Both wasted in poorly written negative roles. An invincible Rajni taking on the villains is all a fan like me need, but Kabali fails to portray that in a typical Rajni way as well. Although there are some punchlines and typical Rajni laughs, they aren't backed up with powerful scenes. I get the slightest of goosebumps as Rajni appears majestically in between the Kaula Lampur's twin towers over a hotel rooftop. However movie doesn't end there as Kabali manages to wipe out his enemies. It is further dragged on for about five minutes, which leads to a very very weird ending.
Kabali is another desperate attempt by the makers to cash in on the Rajni image. Director Ranjith fails to bring the balance between a class and mass movie. Although Rajni's Linga was a dud it at least had its typical Rajni moments and some good bit of sentiment and comedy. Whereas Kabali feels like a collection of different episodes which are hardly connected. The production value is rich and the music is decent. But they can hardly save this movie. The only thing positive about this movie is that there aren't any unnecessary songs put in. Rajni looks good with his white beard and suits, but the way character is written fails to bring out the Super Star in him. As a fan walking out of the theatre all I want to do is to go watch Sivaji again to forget this. Like some others I don't want him to stop making films but I feel he really needs to choose only the best of scripts. I try my best not to write a harsh review on Kabali, but this is the best I can do. I do not want to recommend or not recommend anyone to watch this movie. As a Rajni fan, I only want this movie to be a hit and so does others. But deep inside everyone knows this is nowhere close to a milestone for the Super Star.
Watching Kabali for me was an inner struggle between the fan in me and the critic. Just as much this movie struggles to find the balance between the actor and superstar Rajni. As the 'SUPER STAR' flashes on screen with the Kabali theme music, excitement runs through the movie hall. It is followed by 'Sivajiesque' introduction scene in the jail. It feels good to see him doing push ups even at this age. The fan inside me buckles up for a Rajni ride. Whistles follow as the Rajni dances a few steps in the introduction song. As the movie plot begins to shape up the cinema lover inside me wonders as if it is picking up somewhere from the middle. The so called gangster cum social worker Kabali looks for some answers and payback as he is out of jail. There is always a herd of people around him as he walks, eats, drives and give speeches at his Free Life Foundation (please don't ask what it's about). Random scenes follow with some flashback thrown in. The critic in me starts to think why all this is happening, but the fan in me asks the critic to wait for some more time. I sit there hoping for a typical South Indian movie flashback which cooks up a good and a brutal revenge story. I see random villains trying to kill Kabali but with not much of a zeal or a structured plan. As the movie runtime comes close to an hour, the audience have seemed to lost the enthusiasm as well. They no more shout, whistle or clap when they see Rajni uttering some punchlines. We all see Rajni on screen, but we only see bits and pieces of Rajniism but not too convincing. As the flashback part of the movie begins, it takes a political turn and yet once again it isn't convincing enough. At this point of the time the critic and the fan in me both start wondering what is happening. As more and more characters get introduced it only adds to the confusion and I wait for the break which is something I wouldn't have hoped watching a Rajni movie. The scene leading to the interval doesn't make any impact to make the audience curious and eagerly wait for the second half.
With minimum expectations I start watching the second half not bothering a bit about the story. The fan in me begs for some punchlines and some typical Rajni fights. But the film takes a diversion as Kabali sets to find his wife (very neatly played by Radhika Apte) along with his daughter (a tomboy character played by Dhansika through which director wants to show that he is all in for equal opportunities). This part is an episode in itself. So I feel that earlier the movie ends, the better. Judging by how other audiences react I feel they too have the same opinion. Once again the antagonists surface to hurry an action packed climax. This is the part where probably director Ranjith wants something to give to the Rajni fans. Out of nowhere Rajni gathers an army and comes up with a strategy to face the antagonists played by Kannada actor Kishore and the international actor Winston Chao. Both wasted in poorly written negative roles. An invincible Rajni taking on the villains is all a fan like me need, but Kabali fails to portray that in a typical Rajni way as well. Although there are some punchlines and typical Rajni laughs, they aren't backed up with powerful scenes. I get the slightest of goosebumps as Rajni appears majestically in between the Kaula Lampur's twin towers over a hotel rooftop. However movie doesn't end there as Kabali manages to wipe out his enemies. It is further dragged on for about five minutes, which leads to a very very weird ending.
Kabali is another desperate attempt by the makers to cash in on the Rajni image. Director Ranjith fails to bring the balance between a class and mass movie. Although Rajni's Linga was a dud it at least had its typical Rajni moments and some good bit of sentiment and comedy. Whereas Kabali feels like a collection of different episodes which are hardly connected. The production value is rich and the music is decent. But they can hardly save this movie. The only thing positive about this movie is that there aren't any unnecessary songs put in. Rajni looks good with his white beard and suits, but the way character is written fails to bring out the Super Star in him. As a fan walking out of the theatre all I want to do is to go watch Sivaji again to forget this. Like some others I don't want him to stop making films but I feel he really needs to choose only the best of scripts. I try my best not to write a harsh review on Kabali, but this is the best I can do. I do not want to recommend or not recommend anyone to watch this movie. As a Rajni fan, I only want this movie to be a hit and so does others. But deep inside everyone knows this is nowhere close to a milestone for the Super Star.
- sujanfaster
- Jul 23, 2016
- Permalink
- gurunathankrishnan
- Jul 21, 2016
- Permalink
When a Rajinikanth movie releases, we all go thronging up with more fascinations and exhilarations to see Thalaivar performing the mass acts. But before watching Kabali, there were clear assumptions that it is going to be a class movie more than mass. This was my expectation while going to the theatres and the result is that I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. Till the interval, though long, it's very fast paced with a great story or anything. But after interval, we are in for a serious and emotional drama, where Pa. Ranjith comes to the fore. The drama gets emotionally gripping and, at times, heart-churning. Heroine Radhika Apte and Riythvika deliver excellent performance. Sai Dhansikaa is seen in a suave and stylish role, which caters to action lovers. Sai Dhansikaa performed action sequences. Women may even begin to style themselves like Dhansikaa. The female roles are hugely powerful like male characters.
Rajinikanth strikes awe in every frame with his majestic screen presence. Santhosh Narayanan's equally fiery and blazing instrument- wielding prowess gives Neruppuda Rajinikanth the perfect pedestal for us to admire what he is!
The climax is positive, though thankfully not linear, and predictability has been avoided. It feels that the pre-climax scene suffices but Pa Ranjith is a director, who aspires to be a director of class. So, he has that ambiguous climax, which can give rise to a sequel, if Kabali is well-received. Kabali story treatment is extraordinary. Kabali is sure to be a all time blockbuster but we should wait and see how well it is received, especially to see if the ambiguous climax will be well-received!
Rajinikanth strikes awe in every frame with his majestic screen presence. Santhosh Narayanan's equally fiery and blazing instrument- wielding prowess gives Neruppuda Rajinikanth the perfect pedestal for us to admire what he is!
The climax is positive, though thankfully not linear, and predictability has been avoided. It feels that the pre-climax scene suffices but Pa Ranjith is a director, who aspires to be a director of class. So, he has that ambiguous climax, which can give rise to a sequel, if Kabali is well-received. Kabali story treatment is extraordinary. Kabali is sure to be a all time blockbuster but we should wait and see how well it is received, especially to see if the ambiguous climax will be well-received!
- ravi-mudgil1996
- Jul 20, 2016
- Permalink
Kabali – show on more emotional side of a don
When we come to hear rajini movie is going to release, we start imagining a stereotyped rajinism in his movie!Its true.. which is been happening from last 3 decades! In kabali PA.Ranjith has tried hard to change this stereotyped rajini movie into a non-rajini movie.In this journey has he succeeded? Coming to the story of kabali..it does have a water thin story line with lots of depth . Rajini sir acting is one of the major plus point of the movie, his simplicity, mannerism and stand back in few scenes n giving opportunity to other actors r worthwhile to mention. Radhika apte ,kalaiyarasan,john vijay,dhansika,dinesh,rithvika are apt to their respective roles.
Antagonists Winston chao,Kishore are perfect n need to mention here Kishore acting was appreciable throughout the movie. Coming to music Santhosh Narayan has marvellous talent n is proved with his songs and BGM in the whole movie which indeed takes this movie to another level! PA.Ranjith should have made little more concentration on the screenplay and a bit on rajinism to satisfy rajini fans.Though movie may not offer rajinism at the whole,one can keep a little less expectation and enjoy this wonderful emotional life of kabaleeshwaran AKA kabali.
When we come to hear rajini movie is going to release, we start imagining a stereotyped rajinism in his movie!Its true.. which is been happening from last 3 decades! In kabali PA.Ranjith has tried hard to change this stereotyped rajini movie into a non-rajini movie.In this journey has he succeeded? Coming to the story of kabali..it does have a water thin story line with lots of depth . Rajini sir acting is one of the major plus point of the movie, his simplicity, mannerism and stand back in few scenes n giving opportunity to other actors r worthwhile to mention. Radhika apte ,kalaiyarasan,john vijay,dhansika,dinesh,rithvika are apt to their respective roles.
Antagonists Winston chao,Kishore are perfect n need to mention here Kishore acting was appreciable throughout the movie. Coming to music Santhosh Narayan has marvellous talent n is proved with his songs and BGM in the whole movie which indeed takes this movie to another level! PA.Ranjith should have made little more concentration on the screenplay and a bit on rajinism to satisfy rajini fans.Though movie may not offer rajinism at the whole,one can keep a little less expectation and enjoy this wonderful emotional life of kabaleeshwaran AKA kabali.
- suhassuriya
- Jul 24, 2016
- Permalink
Let's be honest here, if this movie didn't have Rajinikanth, nobody would've given two f*cks about it because it's that awful and cringeworthy. It has to be one of the most lacklustre movies I've ever watched and comes as a huge disappointment after all the hype and media coverage it got. It's got an extremely banal plot of a Malaysian Tamil gangster Kabali, portrayed by Rajini, involved in a gang war with a local don. There's another storyline that runs parallel, that of his personal life which is even more insipid and overplayed. Radhika Apte as Kabali's wife has done a decent job but one cannot expect her to save a plot so weak that even the great superstar Rajini couldn't infuse life into. There's no humour, no punch lines, no message to take from the movie. In fact, the only time I laughed during the entire movie was when my friend walked into the door during the interval. The film went on in a monotonous manner until the end and the best moment was when the end credits rolled on, bringing an end to the viewer's suffering. Of course, a lot of Rajini fans loved the movie and said it was the best movie in the history of mankind but 5 minutes into the movie, any guy with a functional brain will know that it's all rubbish. Overall, I'd recommend not wasting your time on this lousy excuse of a movie made with the sole intention of cashing in on Rajini's reputation and raking up money.
- supreme-leader
- Jul 22, 2016
- Permalink
Kabali is not a usual Rajni film to begin with. It doesn't have any of Rajni's tricks which have made him famous. Nor it shows Rajni as a young ageless man romancing some heroine one third his age.
Rajni finally plays his age, a 60 year old gangster, out of jail in search of his missing wife and seeking revenge for those who destroyed his life. And this is good part of the film because it great to see Rajni the actor and not Rajni the star.
However, the issue I found with Kabali is writer director is not clear whether he should make a gangster or a serious drama film. There are times where Ranjith is telling us about the underworld in Malaysia run by Chinese and Indians. He also highlights the racial tension between the Indians and Malaysians. But on the other hand, he is also depicting a husband having visions about his wife and searching for her.
One of the main reasons Godfather II is considered one of the best gangster films is because it tells both the stories which such ease without losing its core - the life of Michael Corelone and the revenge story of Vito Corelone.
But unlike the Godfather series, Ranjith adds too much of emotions leaving us confused. So there are two beautiful scenes where Kabali meets his daughter for the 1st time and when he meets his wife after 25 years. Both scenes are very high on emotional quotient. Plus there is a long and meaningless climax and a twist in the end which I felt was not required.
Another problem with Kabali is the villain. Rajni's movies have strong villains. But Kabali lacks strong villains. Winston Chao and Kishore are neither menacing nor convincing and end up as any normal cartoonish villains thanks to the poor writing. Chao especially looks funny wear purple suits with funny expressions.
Apart from Rajani, the saving grace is his women co-stars. Radhika Apte is mind blowing as his long lost wife. Apte who is 30 years old gets into the skin and with ease plays the role of 50 plus year old. She and Rajani share a nice sweet old world charm and chemistry.
Other hand, Dhansika plays Kabali's long lost daughter who is also a contract killer. She also put up a nice performance.
Finally, Kabali is not the usual Rajani film. Its different. However, it had the potential to be a great Rajani film.
Rajni finally plays his age, a 60 year old gangster, out of jail in search of his missing wife and seeking revenge for those who destroyed his life. And this is good part of the film because it great to see Rajni the actor and not Rajni the star.
However, the issue I found with Kabali is writer director is not clear whether he should make a gangster or a serious drama film. There are times where Ranjith is telling us about the underworld in Malaysia run by Chinese and Indians. He also highlights the racial tension between the Indians and Malaysians. But on the other hand, he is also depicting a husband having visions about his wife and searching for her.
One of the main reasons Godfather II is considered one of the best gangster films is because it tells both the stories which such ease without losing its core - the life of Michael Corelone and the revenge story of Vito Corelone.
But unlike the Godfather series, Ranjith adds too much of emotions leaving us confused. So there are two beautiful scenes where Kabali meets his daughter for the 1st time and when he meets his wife after 25 years. Both scenes are very high on emotional quotient. Plus there is a long and meaningless climax and a twist in the end which I felt was not required.
Another problem with Kabali is the villain. Rajni's movies have strong villains. But Kabali lacks strong villains. Winston Chao and Kishore are neither menacing nor convincing and end up as any normal cartoonish villains thanks to the poor writing. Chao especially looks funny wear purple suits with funny expressions.
Apart from Rajani, the saving grace is his women co-stars. Radhika Apte is mind blowing as his long lost wife. Apte who is 30 years old gets into the skin and with ease plays the role of 50 plus year old. She and Rajani share a nice sweet old world charm and chemistry.
Other hand, Dhansika plays Kabali's long lost daughter who is also a contract killer. She also put up a nice performance.
Finally, Kabali is not the usual Rajani film. Its different. However, it had the potential to be a great Rajani film.
- akshay-ak-kumar
- Nov 19, 2016
- Permalink
- prashanthlee1989
- Jul 25, 2016
- Permalink
- mrcowsigan
- Jul 21, 2016
- Permalink
I used to be a hardcore Rajini during my teenage days. But after sometime the craze went off because actors are not real life heroes. I still like Rajini and his movies. After seeing this movie all I understood that Rajini wanted to do something different from his usual way of stereotype movies and this movie is definitely reality based and gangster movie which is the real smartest move Rajini has done after a very long time. Though the movie has more of emotion than the regular type but this is what is happening in the real world and that's what the director has told us through this movie. A Tamil man in another land working for his livelihood and fighting with the authorities to get equality for him and his people and gets it done and from there he becomes a revolutionary turning to become a gangster (and does social service) who loses his family because of the enmity and jealousy of his rival gang and then he is caught by the law and is judged falsely and sent to prison and then comes back to avenge his family's death only to find out that his family is still alive. He then gets released and with the help of his old gang members not only gets back his family but he avenges by finishing off all his rivals (typical 'Godfather'style movie ending). It is a very good movie and Rajini has shown good acting in this movie. Though there are certain scenes which could have been improvised by the director but still looks good for the audience. The action is really class apart with a solid blood shed violence for which the movie should have been given PG15 (but has been given Ú' certificate). On the whole in my opinion it is not an really excellent movie (but it could have been if the scenes were improvised) but a really very good movie on the whole and it will surely be a blockbuster as Rajini has come back with a bang in this movie. Magizhchi (Cheers!).......
- suhansivanesan
- Jul 25, 2016
- Permalink
It is a very nice movie with limited songs and almost zero dance, Which is something special about this movie.
Rajini lovers please watch the movie and please notice his dressing style. Its Awesome!!!
Makeup Artist has done a great job.
Dunno why people said its draggy, which I totally dint feel.
Watch the movie and come to a conclusion, don't listen to what people say( Includes my opinion too).
Please do not read reviews and go with the same expectation because people have different tastes.
I personally liked every bit of it.
Overall a nice move. Will not disappoint fans.
Rajini lovers please watch the movie and please notice his dressing style. Its Awesome!!!
Makeup Artist has done a great job.
Dunno why people said its draggy, which I totally dint feel.
Watch the movie and come to a conclusion, don't listen to what people say( Includes my opinion too).
Please do not read reviews and go with the same expectation because people have different tastes.
I personally liked every bit of it.
Overall a nice move. Will not disappoint fans.
- lokeshdayal-90308
- Jul 22, 2016
- Permalink
Kabali (2016): Few movies strive a lot to get hype for their movie with lot of publicity which incurs lot of money.But Kabali is one of the rare movies which got its own publicity without spending single penny.Just first looks and teasers made whole country go crazy.That is Rajini,the one and only superstar of India.His new movie, Kabali is one of the most talked movie in this year.At last the wait is over and released today with sky-high expectations.So how is it???
Plot: Kabali (Rajinikanth) is sentenced for 25 years in a case in Malaysia. Story begins as he is coming out from the jail. Kabali launches a school for his young gang members so that they can come out from the mafia. When the young gangsters ask how he landed in jail, he reveals his story. He gets married to Kundanavalli (Radhika Apte) and rises as a gangster in a short time.
One gang member (Kishore) who is jealous of Kabali's rise hatches a plan to kill him and his pregnant wife. In the attack, Kundanavalli gets killed and infuriated Kabali kills them. Kabali lands in prison.
In the present day, in a sudden twist he meets his daughter (Dhansika) and also comes to know that his wife is alive and is living in India. Kabali flies down from Malaysia to India but his path to find his wife is riddled with many problems.
Plus Points: 1)Rajinikanth: Rajni is the major plus point for this movie.His style,his charisma,his looks everything is marvelous.No one can match his level.He gave brilliant performance as aged gangster.His laugh is enough for whistles allover the theater.
2)Music: Santhosh Narayan gave some truly world class music.Song Neruppu daa is extraordinary and even his BGM is different and perfectly sets the mood of movie.
3)Interval and Climax: Both the Interval and Climax are the only scenes in Kabali which really satisfies audience.Especially climax fight brings out the Rajini we are missing the whole time.
Minus Points: 1)Screenplay: Kabali is surprisingly disappointing with boring narration and dragging screenplay.All the audience who expected Rajni mark mass movie will be surely disappointed with Kabali.This movie is more of a emotional gangster flick than mass one.
2)Duration: Kabali has duration of 2hr 30 min which is makes audience bored for sure.
3)Missing Rajni style: Except his looks ,Kabali has no punch dialogues,no mass scenes,no stylish scenes which are expected from Rajini.
So,Kabali is entirely misunderstood movie which is totally different from what it showed in teasers.Its an emotional gangster flick which can be watched once.
Kabali also ends on a shocking note which came as an entirely unexpected moment.
My rating 5.5/10
Plot: Kabali (Rajinikanth) is sentenced for 25 years in a case in Malaysia. Story begins as he is coming out from the jail. Kabali launches a school for his young gang members so that they can come out from the mafia. When the young gangsters ask how he landed in jail, he reveals his story. He gets married to Kundanavalli (Radhika Apte) and rises as a gangster in a short time.
One gang member (Kishore) who is jealous of Kabali's rise hatches a plan to kill him and his pregnant wife. In the attack, Kundanavalli gets killed and infuriated Kabali kills them. Kabali lands in prison.
In the present day, in a sudden twist he meets his daughter (Dhansika) and also comes to know that his wife is alive and is living in India. Kabali flies down from Malaysia to India but his path to find his wife is riddled with many problems.
Plus Points: 1)Rajinikanth: Rajni is the major plus point for this movie.His style,his charisma,his looks everything is marvelous.No one can match his level.He gave brilliant performance as aged gangster.His laugh is enough for whistles allover the theater.
2)Music: Santhosh Narayan gave some truly world class music.Song Neruppu daa is extraordinary and even his BGM is different and perfectly sets the mood of movie.
3)Interval and Climax: Both the Interval and Climax are the only scenes in Kabali which really satisfies audience.Especially climax fight brings out the Rajini we are missing the whole time.
Minus Points: 1)Screenplay: Kabali is surprisingly disappointing with boring narration and dragging screenplay.All the audience who expected Rajni mark mass movie will be surely disappointed with Kabali.This movie is more of a emotional gangster flick than mass one.
2)Duration: Kabali has duration of 2hr 30 min which is makes audience bored for sure.
3)Missing Rajni style: Except his looks ,Kabali has no punch dialogues,no mass scenes,no stylish scenes which are expected from Rajini.
So,Kabali is entirely misunderstood movie which is totally different from what it showed in teasers.Its an emotional gangster flick which can be watched once.
Kabali also ends on a shocking note which came as an entirely unexpected moment.
My rating 5.5/10
- shobanchittuprolu
- Jul 21, 2016
- Permalink
- muruganand010
- Jul 21, 2016
- Permalink
Lot more expected from Kabali however it didn't meet my expectation. Please do not show this movie to your young kids. Too much violence. Interesting fact that NOBODY in the theater clapped or praised Rajni or any scenes after starting the movie till end. Everybody kind of so desperate. I don't know why Rajnikant decided to accept this character and story. There are few good messages in it, though overall it promotes violence. First half is completely boring. Sorry dear Rajni fans, its my honest opinion. I love Rajni movies and Tamil movies. Rajnikant did his role pretty well in this movie as usual. No doubt on it, however the director trying to impress all kind of viewers by adding unnecessary scenes.
I'm afraid there's no other way to say it: Kabali is a drag. And that's because the man, oops, the Superstar of Superstars, a phrase used for Rajinikanth minus any irony, comes off same-old. Everything that Rajini does to spark untold hysteria amongst his die- hard fans is in here: the dress code ( three piece suits ), the dark glasses, the lines only Rajini can say, the kicks and punches only he can deliver. But the formula is now frayed and tired: there's neither swag nor swagger. There comes a time when even Rajini has to reinvent, and this is it. He has been playing In and As to such adulation for so long that his directors have long stopped bothering about such things as plot and characterisation. When Rajini is on and at it, who cares? Actually, let me amend that. Kabali does make an attempt at a plot. Kabaliswaran aka Kabali is the firebrand leader of a group of Tamil indentured labour in the Malaysian rubber plantations. A skirmish between the owners and the labour turns into a tragedy, and Kabali transforms from regular guy into an grizzled gang-boss. There could have been something there, given the history. But the treatment is both half-baked and half-hearted. Despite it being shot in Malaysia (new locations), the arch-villain being a local (new face), and the superstar given not one but two pretty young women (Apte as wife, Dhansika as daughter) as adoring satellites, this bloated, overlong enterprise cannot hide the fact that the superstar is distinctly slower, less nimble on his feet, making the holes in the film much more visible.
- kumarvarun1989
- Sep 9, 2016
- Permalink
Kabali, a pukka gangster movie with emotions and a building screenplay, beautifully acted by Thalaivar. Pa Ranjith kudos to you sir, the semiotics used in the film along with the emotions are priceless, the semiotics are conveyed on a denotation level its communism and on a connotation its the caste system with the dialogues hit the spot.The usage of metaphors through relating why Mahatma Gandhi shed his clothes and why Ambedkar wore a suit, and the bad situation of the laborer's treated as dogs shows how deep the script is. Few scenes reminds us of the gangster flick 'The Godfather'. Santhosh Narayans Bgm and OST's gives the audience the shivers. A non commercial film and definitely a bold choice by Rajini sir.The audience may call it a slow narration technique or a slow paced screenplay but the flow of the script has a meaning at each step with Rajini Sir's screen presence adds a beautiful flavor.Perhaps the audience expected an action packed film after watching the teaser. To conclude we can expect to see a real life Rajinikanth not the reel life SuperStar, it is a very well written Script with deep emotions a must watch to see a different Rajini with top notch performance.
- shyamvenkateswar
- Jul 21, 2016
- Permalink
- neosupreeth
- Jul 22, 2016
- Permalink
Yes, Rajinikanth is back with his unique style n mannerism if you are a Rajini fan you'll love his screen presence. There are a few goosebumps moments in the movie other than that do not expect too much you'll be definitely disappointed. Story feels going kinda off track many times. Screenplay ????? this comes in mind coz its very slow and drags a lot. Whole movie stands one one pillar that's Rajini he reminds you of the charm of Superstar what we all know him as. Radhika Apte has done complete justice to her role and her presence is remembered even after the movie. All other cast has done their best Kishore, Dhansika exceptionally good. Other than Rajini the track Neruppu Da gives some feel good moments throughout the movie, 2 songs are highlight and bgm is pretty good Santosh Narayan has executed the job well. Some scenes you'll feel were not necessary, Pa.Ranjith is talented but less experienced and you can clearly feel it, a lot lot more could have been done. After all you have a powerhouse called Rajinikanth and could have utilized a lot lot more.
Final word do watch it once without expecting you'll love Rajini Sir his screen presence his epic style dialogues. Thalaivar is Back in style.
Final word do watch it once without expecting you'll love Rajini Sir his screen presence his epic style dialogues. Thalaivar is Back in style.
- dheeraj_contacts
- Jul 22, 2016
- Permalink
- saileshaluri
- Jul 20, 2016
- Permalink
The film that was anticipated with bated breath by millions of fans and movie buffs all around the world is finally out. The regular movie-goers would have seen Rajinikanth in different kinds of films, but what is special about Kabali is his collaboration with a two- film-old young director Ranjith which has played a big part in the curiosity levels of the audience. This combo is something new and fresh. And hence what is it going to offer to the viewer, is the standard thought in many minds.
Kabali is about an aged, reformed gangster Kabaleeswaran who had fought for the oppressed in Malaysia and returns from his jail stay after twenty-five years. What life has in store for him after this, is the turf in which Ranjith has played his shots, the scene of action being predominantly Malaysia.
The director gets into action without wasting any time starting with a small build-up scene for the lead and the very next frame he takes you to the highly anticipated hero intro scene. This happens with a lot of measured calculation, slowly building the tempo and reaching the crescendo powerfully, making Rajini fans come to their seat's end with a thumping heartbeat which becomes a collective loud one eventually. Ranjith has used Rajini's swagger to his advantage, albeit at a different pace.
There are hardly any scenes that pass which do not involve Rajinikanth in it but Ranjith has made sure that he has put all his acting resources to good effect. All the characters have been established having Rajinikanth alongside them.
Kabali shows another side of a gangster. Apart from the fancy costumes, guns and other style elements you find in gangster films, this film shows an emotional side of a gangster. His thought process, how he handles betrayal, tackles his enemies are all showcased neatly. A gangster cannot be powerful always. Likewise, Kabali's graph has a lot of ups and downs. He is strong and normal with friends and family but could be feeble when he is betrayed or when he lets emotions rule over him. Ranjith has played very well with such emotions.
It is easily Rajinikanth's show and the style samrat delivers it all with vigor. Rajini has quite a few sentimental scenes which have come out well. When it comes to Kabali, more than his mass mannerisms, it is the sentimental scenes of him that will be the talking point.
The hard work that has gone into the flashback segments in terms of physical appearance is praiseworthy. But there are times when the younger Rajinikanth looks a little out of place.
Radhika Apte as Rajini's wife Kumudavalli, is apt. The actress known for her subtle nuances holds her fort in this Rajini film too. Dhansika is effective in her action avatar. Kishore, Kalaiayarasan, John Vijay, Rhythvika, Dinesh and all the other supporting characters have managed to provide the right kind of foil for this superstar film.
On the technical side, Santhosh Narayanan's score is a major plus to the film with the songs not being an unwanted protraction. Maya Nadhi is melodious and brings out a matured affection. Veera Thurandhara and Neruppu Da up the mutineering mood as montages. Murali's camera captures the Superstar in his stylish best and Malaysia in its right feel. Editor Praveen has ensured that the product is at its cohesive best. Anu Vardhan's costumes for Rajini are suave and classy, especially his suits. Ramalingam's set designs and Anbariv's action sequences reveal that the team has worked in unison with the director's vision. However in the climax scene, the art department could have worked a little better.
The pace of the film is a little slow. It is not a film for people who are used to clichéd mass hero films. Ranjith is known for his pro oppressed class ideologies, and he does not fail to showcase them in his films. There are some interesting tropes in Kabali too and a few sharp dialogues.
That said, the teaser of the film gave a super massy expectation for the film but when the film's core is not that, it might give room for a little disappointment. And in a gangster film such as this, the antagonists should have been more powerful which would have made the protagonist much stronger. Sadly, despite having many villains, this did not come through.
Kabali is more of a Ranjith film than Rajini's. Some of the scenes and characterizations do remind you of the director's previous film Madras. One should say the screenplay could have been tighter. Usually, when a new director works with a big star like Rajinikanth, they tend to adjust the flow of the film for the hero's stardom but Ranjith has extracted what he wanted for his script without compromising much.
Verdict: Rajinikanth in a different dimension, but Kabali might not work for everyone. Theatres which are known to reverberate for Rajinikanth, seem a lot more silent for Kabali.
Kabali is about an aged, reformed gangster Kabaleeswaran who had fought for the oppressed in Malaysia and returns from his jail stay after twenty-five years. What life has in store for him after this, is the turf in which Ranjith has played his shots, the scene of action being predominantly Malaysia.
The director gets into action without wasting any time starting with a small build-up scene for the lead and the very next frame he takes you to the highly anticipated hero intro scene. This happens with a lot of measured calculation, slowly building the tempo and reaching the crescendo powerfully, making Rajini fans come to their seat's end with a thumping heartbeat which becomes a collective loud one eventually. Ranjith has used Rajini's swagger to his advantage, albeit at a different pace.
There are hardly any scenes that pass which do not involve Rajinikanth in it but Ranjith has made sure that he has put all his acting resources to good effect. All the characters have been established having Rajinikanth alongside them.
Kabali shows another side of a gangster. Apart from the fancy costumes, guns and other style elements you find in gangster films, this film shows an emotional side of a gangster. His thought process, how he handles betrayal, tackles his enemies are all showcased neatly. A gangster cannot be powerful always. Likewise, Kabali's graph has a lot of ups and downs. He is strong and normal with friends and family but could be feeble when he is betrayed or when he lets emotions rule over him. Ranjith has played very well with such emotions.
It is easily Rajinikanth's show and the style samrat delivers it all with vigor. Rajini has quite a few sentimental scenes which have come out well. When it comes to Kabali, more than his mass mannerisms, it is the sentimental scenes of him that will be the talking point.
The hard work that has gone into the flashback segments in terms of physical appearance is praiseworthy. But there are times when the younger Rajinikanth looks a little out of place.
Radhika Apte as Rajini's wife Kumudavalli, is apt. The actress known for her subtle nuances holds her fort in this Rajini film too. Dhansika is effective in her action avatar. Kishore, Kalaiayarasan, John Vijay, Rhythvika, Dinesh and all the other supporting characters have managed to provide the right kind of foil for this superstar film.
On the technical side, Santhosh Narayanan's score is a major plus to the film with the songs not being an unwanted protraction. Maya Nadhi is melodious and brings out a matured affection. Veera Thurandhara and Neruppu Da up the mutineering mood as montages. Murali's camera captures the Superstar in his stylish best and Malaysia in its right feel. Editor Praveen has ensured that the product is at its cohesive best. Anu Vardhan's costumes for Rajini are suave and classy, especially his suits. Ramalingam's set designs and Anbariv's action sequences reveal that the team has worked in unison with the director's vision. However in the climax scene, the art department could have worked a little better.
The pace of the film is a little slow. It is not a film for people who are used to clichéd mass hero films. Ranjith is known for his pro oppressed class ideologies, and he does not fail to showcase them in his films. There are some interesting tropes in Kabali too and a few sharp dialogues.
That said, the teaser of the film gave a super massy expectation for the film but when the film's core is not that, it might give room for a little disappointment. And in a gangster film such as this, the antagonists should have been more powerful which would have made the protagonist much stronger. Sadly, despite having many villains, this did not come through.
Kabali is more of a Ranjith film than Rajini's. Some of the scenes and characterizations do remind you of the director's previous film Madras. One should say the screenplay could have been tighter. Usually, when a new director works with a big star like Rajinikanth, they tend to adjust the flow of the film for the hero's stardom but Ranjith has extracted what he wanted for his script without compromising much.
Verdict: Rajinikanth in a different dimension, but Kabali might not work for everyone. Theatres which are known to reverberate for Rajinikanth, seem a lot more silent for Kabali.
Am Back! I am back as the same youth I left 25 years ! This is a famous dialogue from kabali by Rajinikanth. Perhaps it holds the best for the movie as director Pa Ranjith has loaded it with enough elements that every Rajinikanth fan would lve and make it a movie to cherish. Produced by kalaipuli S Thanu in a grand budget, Kabali is a entertaining and mass engaging stuff with enough in it to give goosebumps of you are an ardent follower of Rajinikanth. Knowing what fans of Rajinikanth would want, Ranjith has spread the commercial elements in his style. One we saw in his earlier films including Attakaththi and Madras. A social message is buried deep in the script. And with Rajinikanth at the scheme of things, it eventually gets bigger and better. All credit to the director. He holds a string grip over the movie and never compromises at places wherever essential. And Rajinikanth seems to have performed what his filmmaker wanted. At regular intervals, there are mass elements that fans will go berserk in theaters. Besides Rajinikanth, there is Radhika Apte playing the female lead, while Dhanshikaa, Rithyvika, Kalaiarasan, John Vijay, Kishore and Chinese actor Winston Chao are in the cast.G Murali is behind the leans and Santosh Narayanan scoring music. Set predominantly in Malaysia, the movie is adrenaline pumping action scenes with enough emotional elements, quite like in any Ranjith film. Every character has been carefully etched by Ranjith and they all have a part to play in the film. And as man of the masses, rajinikanth had always enthused the fan by setting the screen on fire. Here too, he does the same but in style and with a difference. Murali's camera captures Malaysian lifestyle in colorful way and Santosh Narayanan's music compliments the story well. His Neruppu Da and Maya Nadhi are huge hits among music-lovers. Praveen with his crisp editing makes it a short and sweet affair. Coming to the story, Kabali is about a gangster. An international don. Kabaleeswaran also called Kabali (Rajinikanth) is simple man but with a lot of principles. And his better half Kumdhavalli (Radhika Apte) is his life. Kabali has a purpose to serve in his life. It is about his travails for Tamils plantation workers who are unfairly treated by a section.There he encounters problems. After coming out of prison, he treads a path that strikingly teaches the baddies a lesson.. There are flashback scenes where he looks youth that is sure to make his fans feel nostalgic. His costumes and body language helps him in a great manner. The stunt sequences are enthralling. And in one word, kabali marvels you. The vintage Rajinikanth is back. He has replied all those who wrote him off after Lingaa debacle in style with Kabali. Kabali is a movie that deserves a engaging watch. With a super screen presence of Rajinikanth and effective handling of the theme by Ranjith, Kabali ends up as one of the best films from superstar's hut. A good movie is one which should sync the story line with the actors, #kabali is one such which makes you feel there are no overtones and displays brilliantly, the maturity of the legend- #rajinikanth. Simple and straight forward story, no exaggerations. Those initial reviews which spoke about certain over tones, trust me you have Ur views clouded. Not a typical rajini film with blockbuster action sequences and hard hitting punch dialogues. But the story is subtle, with the right proportion of aggression. The movie had much stronger resemblances to the god father story specially the way story and action runs. Final Verdict: A one time watch??? Hell No for a Rajini fan, for others a big YES !
Shivaji Rao Gaekwad aka RAJNI the numero Super Star of Indian Cinema. Charisma is his definition and Style is his representation; that raw magnetism seduces scores of people into thronging the theaters across the globe. To top, his simplicity and earthy nature have augmented his ever growing fan base. No wonder, his movies were used as a case study to analyze the business of Indian cinema.
Kabali is Pa Rajnith's 3rd directorial venture. He sure did taste success with his first two outings. Rajni is at his stylish best in Kabali. Pa Ranjit needs to be lauded undoubtedly for showcasing Rajni in such a sleeky classy way. The way Rajni is presented with thumping BGM sure gives you goose bumps and instantly raises decibel levels in the auditorium. Adrenaline pumping, electrifying, Pure Rajni delirium. Rajni's acting is top notch and is a discourse for all the current gen and upcoming artistes. Thaliava daa !!
When you have a super star like RAJNI, half the battle is already won. The other half depends on how well you have unfolded the story. Pa Ranjit miserably fails in this aspect. The narration is dead slow even for a passionate moviegoer. Even a snail would have crawled faster. I could hear the seconds hand ticking on my watch. "Wtf, this is Rajni's movie dude. Don't do this Pa Ranjit" whined my Rajni frenzy mind and continued it's love-hate relationship with the director. There are so many scenes which could have been chopped off on the editing table. Also, to bring out the right emotions in a drama, you need to cast the right folks. Except for Thailava, Radhika Apte and Winston Chao all the other supporting cast were not up to the snuff. Music by Santosh Narayan is superb and Neruppu Da (I luv the tamil version) has already topped the chart busters and continues to enthrall music lovers around the world as I write about it. BGM impresses in bits.
Someone told me that a picture is worth a thousand words....so here's Kabali graph /\___^^___/\ - The first 15 min movie sky rockets, then crashes like the stock market during a recession, next for a few blocks in between wakes you up from slumber and gives you the much required kick and finally the last 15 min provide you a proper adieu. Rest all is Hum Ka'Bali'. Neruppu Da gets dampened due to the icy cold storyline.
Kabali was made for the love of a man. (fyi, 'For the love of a man' is a documentary made in 2015 exploring Rajni's craze). It's a decent attempt to showcase Rajni's trademark style and niagara the auditorium with his aura. Better focus on story and narration could have fully satiated the audience. If you have enough patience to remain idle in the dark for over an hr in an auditorium filled with hundreds of like minded fans, then try not to miss this one for RAJNI. PS: If you are uncertain of handling the in between 'bali', then the teaser is the best option. You can watch it umpteen times on youtube !!
Kabali is Pa Rajnith's 3rd directorial venture. He sure did taste success with his first two outings. Rajni is at his stylish best in Kabali. Pa Ranjit needs to be lauded undoubtedly for showcasing Rajni in such a sleeky classy way. The way Rajni is presented with thumping BGM sure gives you goose bumps and instantly raises decibel levels in the auditorium. Adrenaline pumping, electrifying, Pure Rajni delirium. Rajni's acting is top notch and is a discourse for all the current gen and upcoming artistes. Thaliava daa !!
When you have a super star like RAJNI, half the battle is already won. The other half depends on how well you have unfolded the story. Pa Ranjit miserably fails in this aspect. The narration is dead slow even for a passionate moviegoer. Even a snail would have crawled faster. I could hear the seconds hand ticking on my watch. "Wtf, this is Rajni's movie dude. Don't do this Pa Ranjit" whined my Rajni frenzy mind and continued it's love-hate relationship with the director. There are so many scenes which could have been chopped off on the editing table. Also, to bring out the right emotions in a drama, you need to cast the right folks. Except for Thailava, Radhika Apte and Winston Chao all the other supporting cast were not up to the snuff. Music by Santosh Narayan is superb and Neruppu Da (I luv the tamil version) has already topped the chart busters and continues to enthrall music lovers around the world as I write about it. BGM impresses in bits.
Someone told me that a picture is worth a thousand words....so here's Kabali graph /\___^^___/\ - The first 15 min movie sky rockets, then crashes like the stock market during a recession, next for a few blocks in between wakes you up from slumber and gives you the much required kick and finally the last 15 min provide you a proper adieu. Rest all is Hum Ka'Bali'. Neruppu Da gets dampened due to the icy cold storyline.
Kabali was made for the love of a man. (fyi, 'For the love of a man' is a documentary made in 2015 exploring Rajni's craze). It's a decent attempt to showcase Rajni's trademark style and niagara the auditorium with his aura. Better focus on story and narration could have fully satiated the audience. If you have enough patience to remain idle in the dark for over an hr in an auditorium filled with hundreds of like minded fans, then try not to miss this one for RAJNI. PS: If you are uncertain of handling the in between 'bali', then the teaser is the best option. You can watch it umpteen times on youtube !!
- chirukiranu
- Jun 21, 2018
- Permalink
- binducherungath
- Jul 23, 2016
- Permalink
Magizhchi, After watching Kabali!!! Neruppu_Da!!!!!!!
To start on with, Such a wonderful movie. That man Rajinikanth at that age!! OMG!!!!! #MASSSSSSS
No1 can do this better than Rajini Sir, Even tough watching this from other state, that mass feeling, Roars, Whistle, excitement on people face, Wha!!!
Tamilan Voice "Rajini movies is not just movie for us, It's a festival"
Casts: Rajini sir, No comments!! he is a legend!! Radhika Apte did a very good supporting role, That girl Yogi, Just stole everyone's heart <3, Kishore is always best at what he do and all other cast did a decent job.
Comes to Pa.Ranjith, did a decent job, there are misses here and there, but Rajini sir and Story covered it.
BGM! Is still running on my ears. Cinematography is also decent, Not on top nor down.
Its a treat for Rajini sir & Movie lovers. Decent movie for just Movie lovers. for Rajini lovers, don't compare the movie with other Rajini movies. Just admire him and watch it, will love it
Overall gr8 team work
To start on with, Such a wonderful movie. That man Rajinikanth at that age!! OMG!!!!! #MASSSSSSS
No1 can do this better than Rajini Sir, Even tough watching this from other state, that mass feeling, Roars, Whistle, excitement on people face, Wha!!!
Tamilan Voice "Rajini movies is not just movie for us, It's a festival"
Casts: Rajini sir, No comments!! he is a legend!! Radhika Apte did a very good supporting role, That girl Yogi, Just stole everyone's heart <3, Kishore is always best at what he do and all other cast did a decent job.
Comes to Pa.Ranjith, did a decent job, there are misses here and there, but Rajini sir and Story covered it.
BGM! Is still running on my ears. Cinematography is also decent, Not on top nor down.
Its a treat for Rajini sir & Movie lovers. Decent movie for just Movie lovers. for Rajini lovers, don't compare the movie with other Rajini movies. Just admire him and watch it, will love it
Overall gr8 team work