PILOT PREMNATH review

Pilot Premnath is a lavish Indo-Sri Lanka co-production with Nadigar Thilagam Sivaji Ganesan in the lead role opposite Sri Lankan actress, Malini Fonseka. They are supported by Sri Devi, Vijayakumar, Jai Ganesh, Jayachithra, Thengaai Srinivassan, Major Sunderarajan and Prem Anand. Others in the cast are Manorama, Sathyapriya and Sri Lankan stars Manimegalai, Abraham, Maaraa Sinsaa, Navarasa Nadigar Vijayendran, Chinnaya and Sri Ganga.

The unusual story has been penned by R.Venkat. Sivaji Ganesan plays Air Ceylon pilot, Premnath. He is a widower, having lost his wife Malini under tragic circumstances. Malini, of course, is played by Sri Lankan actress Maalini Fonseka. Premnath is clearly still very much in love with Malini and has never quite gotten over her death. Nevertheless, the pain of his loss has not adversely affected his three children. He is a loving, compassionate and caring father to his children; Eldest son Ramu – played by Puratchi Kalainyar Vijayakumar, Second son Raghu – played by Jai Ganesh and his beautiful but blind daughter Kaanjan – played by Sri Devi. Premnath’s close family friends include his actor friend – played by Major Sunderrrajan as well as Mr and Mrs Ajith – played by Thengaai Srinivassan and Manorama.

On his wedding anniversary, as has become customary since the death of his wife, Premnath invites all his friends over for a party. It is on this day, while showing his wife’s possessions to his friend, Ajith that Premnath comes across a letter which his wife had written but had not posted. When he reads the letter, Premnath is devastated by its contents. What was in the letter? What was so shocking that it turns Premnath against everyone? Watch this absorbing and entertaining family story, Pilot Premnath – to find out more.

Directed by master director A.C.Thirulokachander, Pilot Premnath has a somewhat slow start. This in no way suggests that the beginning of the film is boring – simply that events progress slowly. However, the importance of these events come to light in the second half. It is Thirulokachander’s screenplay that accounts for the enthralling quality of the movie. The suspense is maintained right to the very last scene of the film and is marked by some memorable acting performances. Scripting by Aaroor Dhaas is intelligently crafted and contains some credible emotive exchanges.

Nadigar Thilagam Sivaji Ganesan is, as always, simply electric. From a young and romantic Premnath to the pensive and respected Pilot Premnath, Sivaji Ganesan is a delight to watch, proving in scene after scene why he was regarded as the walking talking acting university. Sri Lankan actress Malini Fonseka combines good acting and glamour in an unforgettable role. Sri Devi is superb in a very soulful portrayal while Vijayakumar and Jai Ganesh compete with each other in acting brilliance. Jayachithra is in an unusual role while Prem Anand is also impressive. Thengaai Srinivassan makes a valiant effort while Major Sunderrajan is the best of the others.

Mellisai Mannar M.S.Visvanathan scores the music in Pilot Premnath. Visvanathan has afforded extra attention to the film’s background score and has done well in the soundtrack. The film contains two all-time classics, Ilangaiyin Illankuyil ennodu isai paadutho and Who is the black sheep? All the songs have been penned by Vaali. The songs feature tasteful dance choreography by A.K.Chopra and Sri Lankan dance choreographer, Chandrakalaa.

Cinematographer Vinayakam has done well to capture the picturesque scenes of Sri Lanka. Vinayakam’s talents are most admirable in the song sequences. Credit should also go to Director A.C.Thirulokachander for the many unusual locations featured in the film. Vinayakam’s indoor photography is rather ordinary. Art Directors B.Salam and Sri Lankan J.A.Vincent do a commendable job with the film’s many sets.

Produced by Sri Lanka’s D.M.Chandhrasena, Pilot Premnath is an unusual family entertainer that will make a great addition to any movie collection – whether or not you’re a fan of Sivaji Ganesan. The film has a story by R.Venkat, scripting by Aaroor Dhaas and screenplay and direction by veteran director A.C.Thirulokachander.