'Sirivantha' - Film review :: a film by S. Narajay starring Dr. Vishnuvardhan and Shruti

Though Dr. Vishnuvardhan was very much onscreen, his presence as an actor was nowhere to be seen in his recently released films. 'Sirivantha', on the other side, gives you the opportunity to see the potential of this actor!

'Sirivantha' is the story of an idealist Narayana Murthy played by Vishnuvardhan. He is at loggerheads with his family, friends and others in terms of ideals. In every such confrontations though he feels humiliated, he wins through his ideals ultimately. Though he faces humiliation at every phase of his life, his popularity is seen after he dies and thousands of people gather at his funeral. The film is very well nested with series of incidents that certainly touches one's heart.

'Sirivantha' is a remake of a Telugu movie 'Aa Nalaguru' starring Rajendra Prasad. Though it's a remake, director S. Narayan has narrated the film effectively and in his style. Screenplay and dialogues are quite powerful. The melodrama in the climax seems to be a bit overdone however. The messages told throughout the film seems a little bookish and feels like a lecture. It could have been told in a lighter vein.

Though the film has some dull and boring moments in the first half, it's certainly a good entertainer. Thanks to wonderful script and some fine performances from the lead artistes particularly Vishnuvardhan. It would not be an exaggeration if we say this is his best performance till date. Shruthi is an apt choice as his wife. Veteran actor Doddanna proves that he is one of the best supporting actors through his performance as the greedy Doddaiah. The rest of the cast which includes Srinath, Tulasi Shivamani, K.S. Ashwath, Ashok Rao have done their bit with great ease.

Technically the film is good. Cameraman P.K.H. Das excels in his work throughout the film. S.A. Rajkumar gives some good songs in the form of 'Badiyithe Sidilu' and others. But his re-recording is very poor. On the whole, it's a film not only for Dr. Vishnuvardhan's fans but a film for the entire family.

Direction: S. Narayan
Producer: Rockline Venkatesh
Music: S.A. Rajkumar
Cinematography: P.K.H. Das
Cast: Vishnuvardhan, Shruti, Doddanna, Srinath, Tulasi Shivamani, K.S. Ashwath, Ashok Rao etc