Review: There is no doubt that director Vijay has portrayed this legendary character as larger than life on screen as well. Everyone knows that Jayalalithaa, known as the Amma of Tamil Nadu, has been embroiled in allegations of corruption and controversies throughout her political career, but as filmmakers often do, she avoids depicting controversial aspects while making a biopic. Here too the director did the same. All his emphasis was on the pure love story of MGR and Jayalalithaa and then on the climax of her political career. The director has expedited the developments of the story. They capture the backdrop of the 80s-90s perfectly. Political rallies and crowd scenes during MGR’s death have become powerful. A lot of dialogue has been kept in the film to empower Kangana’s character. You also remember some dialogues. Vijendra Prasad’s music disappoints. The casting of the film is strong and Neeta Lulla’s costumes prove to be helpful in depicting that era.
Acting: When you see Kangana as Jayalalithaa on screen, you get an idea why the filmmaker would have been the first choice for this character. Kangana has given a powerpacked performance as Jayalalithaa. Be it the lightness of Kishori Jaya or the fierce form of Amma, Kangana plays every layer very well. She roars like a lioness to protect her self-esteem, and shows a selfless love for her lover. Her knotted blouse, Gaudi make-up, floral embellished hairstyle and body language beautifully embodies the South heroine of the 70-80s. Arvind Swami has supported him a lot in the form of MGR. They bring MGR to life on screen. Nassar has been doing well in the role of Karunanidhi, but his part did not get much screen space. Raj Arjun as MGR’s colleague RMV has proved to be the surprise package of the film. His strong acting is the plus point of the film. Bhagyashree plays her role beautifully in the role of Kangana’s mother. Madhu is seen in a small role of MGR’s wife. The supporting cast is according to the story.
Why watch: The film can be watched for Kangana’s strong performance and her eagerness to know about Jayalalithaa’s life.