Suriya and Venkat Prabhu merge in this sort of spooky tale of twists, now both of them needing a proper hit at the BO. Venkat and co announces that there won't be an 'item' number with a scantily clad chick like his previous films.Shortly after that, 'Masss' gets granted an 'U' certificate, you wonder if the director had compensated anything script wise to bring in the family audiences flocking. Songs also seem alright ,almost situational, giving fans and cinema goers unrest on whether this could be one of those experimental movies.
Venkat and team answers all doubts and critics in a such a fashion, commercial directors might have started taking notes. Suriya being the refined actor he is, takes center stage acting his heart out on screen. Turning 40 this year, it doesn't add up to his youthful looks and brilliant physique. Suriya's acting prowess seems second to none as he single-handedly holds the film playing a dual role one a grifter and another unexpected surprise role. 200% effort from Suriya, explains why himself and Vikram chase concept driven scripts, they are the only ones ready to put so much effort into one film.
Yuvan Shankar Raja also nails big time on the background score whether its the feet tapping 'Conman theme' or the darker, thrilling theme. With the film having some emotional content and sentiments, Yuvan adds some magic touches to compliment them. Songs are quite satisfying on the whole with the added visuals.
Speaking of the visuals, R.D. Rajasekhar proves to be the second hero behind the camera with extraordinary lighting and angles for an Indian film. He just might pick up a couple of awards for his contribution.Aiding the camera-work is the nicely done sets by art director Rajeevan, in the opening song as well as in the MJ tribute number.
The screenplay presented by the director is pretty new to Indian audience and will be the highlight as Masss is cut almost inch perfect by editor Praveen, serving the right amounts of the action and drama. The movie runs seamlessly from the turning point to interval,pre- climax and the simple ending. Despite that the flashback could have been shorter, as they slowed down Venkat's good narration.
Comical add ons by Premji and Sriman, Karunas and Rajendran will be much appreciated as they are subtle and effective. Premji also comes up with perhaps his best act on screen. Heroine roles in a VP movie always are justified but short and cameo orientated. Nayanthara and Pranitha both are gorgeous looking and pushed astray by Suriya's one man army of a a show. Perhaps the director might give more screen time to heroines in his future scripts.
Masss is a sure treat for fans of all ages, expect kids to fill up seats in the cinema hall this summer. A rare occasion when a big star's film is out. Clean, well cut, exciting twists, zero hip shaking glamor, kid friendly almost masterpiece. Masss , the 3 S's for; story,screenplay and Suriya. ( 3.75/5 )
