VASANTHA MALIGAI review

Once a drunk, always a drunk : How true is that? That is the central issue handled by the blockbuster movie, Vasantha Maaligai, which starred Sivaji Ganesan, Vanishree, K.Balaji, Nagesh, Major Sunderrajan, V.S.Raagavan, Pandaribhai, Shrikanth, Senthaamarai and Sri Devi who was only a child star at the time.

Sivaji Ganesan plays a wealthy but hopeless drunk whose life revolves around alcohol. Virtual addiction is tested against the power of a woman in the form of Vanishree, but the metamorphosis is not a simple process – especially when the two begin to fall in love; a relationship that seemed to be doomed almost once it had started.

Will reason triumph over the bottle? Can Love really conquer all? The answers to these questions make up the rest of the story of Vasantha Maaligai.

As can be expected, Sivaji Ganesan puts in an unforgettable performance, closely followed by Vansihree. K.Balaji leaves an indelible mark on the film while Nagesh is responsible for some good comedy. There are also memorable performances from Major Sunderrajan, V.S. Raagavan, Pandaribhai and Shrikanth. Child star Sridevi also makes a lasting impression.

Vasantha Maaligai features the music of K.V.Mahadevan and the lyrics of Kannadassan and his nephew, Panju Arunachallam. The songs have since become immortal hits and include such memorable tracks as Mayakkamenna, Yaarukaage and Irandu Manam Vendum.

The moving story has been penned by Kousalya Devi while scripting is handled by Balamurugan. The clashes between Vanishree and Sivaji Ganesan are realistically handled.

Vijaya and Suresh Combines’ Vasantha Maaligai is an entertaining movie with a moral message and is sure to be enjoyed by all.