Gaayapadda Simham TamilYogi Review: That wink at Salaar, which is unmistakably directed at the Prabhas fans, falls like a flash in a crowded theatre. It beautifully encapsulates what Gaayapadda Simham attempts to accomplish, a crowd pleasing, somewhat off-beat, and unscrupulously entertaining experience. The film is based on a crazy but interesting assumption of a dream that Donald Trump derailed, and the characters serve to keep it grounded. Tarun Bhaskar easily carries that burden with a charming grace, but Sree Vishnu quietly enters the scene without disturbing the stream. J. D. Chakravarthy is an added welcome. It is lopsided here and there, but the humour sticks, the energy retains and the film does not often forget its purpose, keeping the audience involved.
It is based on a rather unusual concept. Since his childhood, the main character has a dream of coming to live in the United States. The decision associated with Donald Trump abruptly ends that ambition and he is forced to stay in India. This is followed by a surprising twist of emotions, as he directs his anger towards a strange kind of revenge. The movie is not presented in the manner that it shows all its layers, so the story develops step by step with personal, romantic, and situational conflicts.
The most striking thing is the writing and performance of the character of Tarun Bhaskar. The role is an interesting balance of humour and vulnerability, and his physicality onscreen has an inherent rhythm that keeps the story going. The cameo of Sri Vishnu is never obtruded and not meaningless.
The romance between Manasa Choudhary and Tarun Bhaskar makes the film even more warm. Their encounters are vibrant and close to heart. The humour, meanwhile, is always effective. The humour hits without making it feel like it is being forced and the supporting cast plays its part in between scenes.
The movie is technically stable. Cinematography is not obtrusive in the telling of the story. Although the songs are not memorable, they do not interfere with the story as well. The interval block is very impressive in its effect and the second half is very good in maintaining the momentum. Notably, the movie does not drag on and is entertaining.
The part of J. D. Chakravarthy is worth special mention. His personality is different and provides a pleasant contrast with his typical looks.
The only weakness is that the music is not entirely in line with the energy of the film. Nevertheless, this is a small price to pay in a otherwise fun package. The movie is not intended to be complicated, it is rather oriented on the steady interest, and it is effective in that sense.
Ultimately, Gaayapadda Simham is more of a theater show, particularly to those who appreciate light comedy, character-based storytelling, with undertones of humor. It presents a brand of entertainment that is fresh, dynamic and performance based.
Rating: 3/5
