Movie: Nanban
Directon: Shankar
Star Cast: Vijay, Jeeva, Srikanth, Ileana, Sathyaraj, Sathyan S.J Surya, Anuya
Story: Abhijat Joshi Rajkumar Hirani
Music: Harris Jayaraj
Cinematography: Manoj Paramahamsa
Banner: Gemini Film Circuit
Released Date: January 12, 2012
It is been long time that we saw such a colourful and energetic movie like this. Thanks to Shankar and his team who have made this wonderful film that is both emotional and entertaining.
Expectations were high for the film for the fact that Shankar and Vijay have come together for the first time for a movie. And, for Shankar this is his next after the mammoth production and blockbuster hit superstar’s ‘Endhiran’! For Vijay, this is his next to the successful ‘Velayudham‘!
Nanban tells the story of three Engineering students who come from different backgrounds with different goal in their lives. Pari (Vijay), Senthil (Jeeva) and Venkatramakrishnan are the three friends who are very close friends in the class.
Pari wants to see studies that should be useful to our lives and doesn’t believe in memorizing subjects like what Srivatsan (Satyan), who is the darling of professor Santhanam (Sathyaraj). The three boys incur the wrath of the professor, but as the story goes on the professor slowly realizes the real personalities of the three friends. Pari loves professor’s daughter Riya (Ileana), a medical college student. After their course completion what the boys become in their lives is told later that should be watched on the silver screen.
We see a different Vijay, doing the role Pari. What a performance! It’s really a treat to all Vijay fans. The performance of Jeeva and Srikanth are also extraordinary. The chemistry between these three stars could be seen in every scene they are together.
Another big performance is from veteran actor Satyaraj. He, as Professor Virumandi Santhanam, has lived the role. And, for Satyan, this is the best film that he can boast in his career.
Ileana as the love interest of Vijay is cute and attractive. Her acting and dance movements in the film will definitely bring big offers and she would do a big round in Kollywood! S.J Suryah and Anuya Bhagawat have done cameo appearances.
Shankar does not have any introduction to the hard work he puts in his films. He has proved it in many of his films. And, Nanban is another milestone movie in his list of big films but differently, for Nanban being totally an emotional drama with visuals that is a whole riot of colours! Every frame of the film speaks Shankar‘s hard work and creative brain. Hats off, Shankar!
‘Nanban‘ is a Tamil remake of 2009 Bollywood blockbuster ‘3 Idiots‘. The title roles in Hindi were played by Aamir Khan, Madhavan and Sharman Joshi. Kareena Kapoor‘s role is played by Ileana in ‘Nanban‘. Sathyaraj excels the professor role that Boman Irani had in ‘3 Idiots‘.
Original story was adapted from Chetan Bhagat‘s novel ‘Five Point Someone‘. The screenplay for Nanban is written by Shankar and Madhan Karky.
Music is by Harris Jayaraj. The Shankar – Harris Jayaraj duo had created a magic earlier with their film ‘Anniyan‘. The same magic has been created with ‘Nanban‘ too. The songs are already a rage with youngsters and music lovers and topping the charts. The background score too adds strength to the script.
Manoj Paramahamsa has done the camera work, a big plus to ‘Nanban’. The lens man has taken his camerawork to next level. Editing by Anthony is also worth mentioning.
Nanban is produced by Gemini Film Circuit in a whopping budget of Rs.60 Crore. The film is also dubbed in Telugu with a title ‘3 Rascals‘.
Nanban is definitely a big treat for both Shankar and Vijay fans, and a wholesome entertainment for everyone who loves good cinema!
Nanban is a film that is sure a watchable. A must watch!
Write your review on ‘Nanban’
Ilayathalapathy Vijay starrer ‘Nanban‘ can be rightly called as one of the eagerly awaited films in recent times thanks to the star value and a plot that promises difference and class. The film’s tickets were all booked within record time of opening at all centers!
So what do you think about this entertainer from Shankar? This film marks director Shankar‘s first ever remake; do you think he has done justice to the film? Vijay as Parivendan plays a college goer who loves his course but has a different take towards life. How are Vijay, Jeeva and Srikanth as students?
Have Jeeva and Srikanth done justice to the roles reprised by Sharman Joshi and Madhavan respectively? How’s Harris Jayaraj‘ background score? What about Ileana‘s screen presence and Sathyaraj‘s performance as an adamant professor?
SouthDreamz.com viewers and Vijay fans, write your review on ‘Nanban‘ in here and we’ll make sure the makers catch a glimpse of it! Post your review in the comments section by taking care you don’t give away the plot to other readers…
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Nanban – a must watch family entertainer
Ilayathalapathy Vijay‘s Nanban is the remake of Bollywood blockbuster ’3 Idiots’ by Rajkumar Hirani. Jeeva and Srikanth play the other pivotal roles.
In the original, the male lead characters was done by Aamir Khan, R Madhavan and Sharman Joshi while the female lead was played by Karina Kapoor.
Nanban story
Nanban is Shankar’s version of ’3 Idiots’ all the way. Panjavan Pari Velan(Vijay) joins the engineering college as first year student, in short he was called as Pari. At a ragging scenario with seniors he meets Senthil(Jeeva) and Venkat Ramakrishnan(Srikanth) in the Hostel permises. He takes out the situation in a clever and funny manner which attracts other first year students and soon the 3 become close friends.
Then enters Virumaandi Sandhanam(Sathyaraj) is short called as Virus, is the Principal of the college who wants everyone to be disciplined and stay in Order. But Pari(Vijay) is a student who doesn’t take anything seriously at all and goes in his own way with the quote that ‘All is Well’, this irks Virus during their first meet itself.
Meanwhile there they meet Srivatsan(Sathyan) who is nicknamed as Silencer, who appears to be a bookworm and always tries to degrade the three friends.
Then the family stories behind Senthil(Jeeva) and Venkat Ramakrishnan(Srikanth) are shown with sentiments in a funny manner. Senthil is a innocent guy who likes to have fun, but because of his poor family background he tries hard to study well by avoiding college fun.
Venkat who has a passion for Photography does engineering to fulfill his parent’s desire. These three at one funny circumstance secretly attends a wedding to fill their stomach, where Pari meets Anariya(Ileana) and finds out that it the daughter of Virus. Later Pari comes to know that Anariya was engaged with a self-centered person.
But soon things change and Pari(Vijay) and Anariya(Ileana) fall in love. And Pari finishes his graduation and all depart in their own ways. In the later second half when Senthil and Venkat try to get hold of Pari, Pari goes missing there comes twist in the story. Then finally whether Anariya(Ileana) joins with Pari(Vijay) or not forms the rest of the story.
Stars performance
It is all show of Vijay, the actor has worked hard to fit into the main role as Pari. He has given a matured and natural performance, but Jeeva and Srikanth are the two pillars which lifts up the role of Pari played by Vijay. After Kaavalan this will be Vijay’s character oriented role and even at certain scenes brings out your emotions.
Adding glamour to Vijay’s role is Ileana, the actress who got introduced with Tamil film Kedi was missing because of her rise in Tollywood. But now this will mark her presence in Kollywood too with her charming and sexy perfromance. Also Anuya comes as the elder sister of Ileana.
Sathyaraj as the principal goes in topgear with his acting skills and suits the role to utmost perfection. Whereas Sathyan who also comes from the family of Sathyaraj proves that he is not less than him with his witty plans and modulation he scores well as the irritating Silencer.
Analysis
Director Shankar has put his whole effort in Nanban to give credits to the original version ’3 idiots’ and the director succeeds in that once again. Even though his 10th film is a remake, he has narrated with his own style of film-making which gives a fresh feel to the movie. Music by Harris Jayaraj needs special mention, all the songs are exotically visualised and Harris has given a pleasant Background Score too.
Cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and Art by T Muthuraj are added advantages to the film’s narration. Technically the film is brilliant. The only thing is the slow pace in screenplay but it gives you that feel only for a few moments. Wholly Nanban is an out and out family entertainer with a clean U certificate.
Verdict
If you want to Celebrate this pongal in a pleasant manner with friends and family then Nanban is the perfect choice. It has all the ingredients of a Shankar’s film, with a huge star cast like Vijay, Jeeva, Srikanth, Ileana, Sathyaraj, Sathyan. Nanban is sure to entertain your family and friends.
Nanban is really super………………I like vijay, sathan, sathyaraj, jeeva, srikanth, ileana acting are really very good.Special thing is i seen a different vijay. He done Aamer khan role very perfect.I need to say vijay, that you have to do this type of character’s really u rocksssss And Shankar sir u gave a wonderful scope for vijay………….and all technician done their work perfect….
This is look like a promotion for Hindi version of 3 idiots, 90% of South people watch 3 Idiot Hindi Version, Because of Shankar we going to watch……
Time waste!!! i.e, it is not must watch movie…
A NANBAN FOR EVERYONE… DON’T MISS IT….
The fanfare was quite low in major cities of Tamil Nadu and of course South Indian states merely because ‘Nanban’ is a remake of ‘3 Idiots’. The Hindi blockbuster movie managed to sweep everyone’s senses for its captivating theme, a strong message conveyed through hilarious ingredients with a blend of emotional quotient.
Well, when it comes to a remake, of course the filmmakers want to point one as the protagonist and not all, which indeed is a major reason, why Kollywood is still behind Bollywood in spite of having the greatest technicians, best actors, etc…
While the Hindi version had the title ‘3 Idiots’ it gave equal importance to all the three characters – Aamir Khan, Sharman Joshi and Madhavan and now ‘Nanban’ is just about Vijay.
Let us not draw conclusions between these movies and now start with the analysis.
The film opens with Venkata Ramakrishnan (Srikanth) and Sevalkodi Senthil (Jiiva) starting their journey across the beautiful locales, not for a leisure trip, but in search of someone, who changed their lives enlightening them about their passion, listening to heart and today making them as the most eminent personalities of the industry. He is none other than Panchavan Parivendan aka Paari (Vijay). As the journey begins, the journey within starts travelling down their memory lane…. Amongst them travelling is Srivatsan (Sathyan), a topper in their class and today a bigwig in his technological industry. He is here to inform their buddy Paari that he has won the bet he had placed before years.
The flashback is about the college days and the machine lives of engineering students with the toughest professors including Virumandi Santhanam (Sathyaraj) making it tougher for them. While the students strive to achieve success in their own terms, which is about getting highest marks by mugging up the books without understanding them, Paari crystallizes them to core.
But we have something quite shocking to see as the suspense pops up when the friends reach the place happily to Paari only to see some other person (played by SJ Suryah).
Who actually Paari was? Is there some mystery behind his identity? Go watch it over the screens that is done in engrossing way, though it is a replication, but done in Shankar’s way.
The film has a splendid message that everyone is hero in their own topics and fields. So there is no point distinguishing between white collar and blue collar jobs. Follow your heartbeat, discover your passion, develop your skills and success will follow you, you need not chase it.
The greatest highlight that offers justice to the original version is Shankar’s ability to bring in the right kind of actors. It’s not for the sake of favoring someone in particular, but Vijay is the only actor, who can pose jovially as a college student although many have been striving to look so. On the pars, Jiiva’s characterization is engrossing and more of humour. Watch out for his family portions that will kill you with absolute laughter. Srikanth’s role as a typical orthodox middle class family is done well. It’s good that Shankar has thrown off the star-value and given importance to Srikanth as he narrates the entire story. Ileana looks apt for the role of a medical student and her performance as an innocuous child like heart is nice. Her portions during the penultimate sequences are appreciable. Sathyan looks little annoying for the role as he doesn’t carry the humorous images and Shankar could have chosen someone else to essay this role, maybe Omi Vaidya himself.
The dialogues are almost the same from the original version but Shankar and Madhan Karky add up some gripping lines to savor to the tastes of Tamil audiences.
Technically, the film is brilliant than the original version with the promising technicians like Harris Jayaraj (fails to score well in background, but few songs are good) and top-notching cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa, especially the songs are excellent.
On the whole, ‘Nanban’ is a special treat for the universal audiences, especially to the youth crowd. We recommend the educational institutions to screen special shows for all its students for its great message.
Nanban is the Tamil remake of the Hindi blockbuster ‘ 3 Idiots’. After the immense success of Enthiran (Robot), Shankar chose to make this as a quickie and the film has completed faster as compared to his earlier grand opus.
The film has Tamil superstar Vijay team up with Shankar for the first time. Vijay reprises the role of Rancho played by Aamir Khan in the original. He will be seen in the role of an engineering student who wants to change the conventional educational system with his out-of-the-box thinking. Jeeva and Srikanth will reprise the roles of Madhavan and Sharman Joshi, as Vijay’s close buddies in college.
Ileana will be playing the part that Kareena Kapoor did in the original. She will be seen as Vijay’s love interest in the film. The actress is hoping this to be her big comeback vehicle in Kollywood.
Major portions of the film were shot in Ooty and Darjeeling and promise to have the lavish scale of Shankar films. Nanban is planned as a Pongal release.
I SAW 3 IDIOTS THRICE. WITHOUT EXPECTAION I WENT TO WATCH NANBAN.
BELIEVE IT IT IS MUCH MUCH SUPERIOR TO 3 IDIOTS.
VIJAY HAS GIVEN THE BEST PERFORMANCE. COOL ENERGETIC NATURAL AND SUPERB PERFORMANCE. IT IS AN EXCELLNT FILM AND A MUST FOR ALL TO WATCH
GREAT ENTERTAINER. VIJAY RULES. SHANKAR HAS GIVEN THE MAGICAL TOUCH AND IT IS THE BEST FILM OF HIS CAREER ALSO. NANBAN WILL CREATE HISTORY IN BOX OFFICE IS SURE.VIKATAN WILL GIVE 60 MARKS WITHOUT PREJUDICE.
Nanban Movie Review Updated on : Jan 12, 2012 14193 Views: 4.12/5 User Rating:
Nanban – Tamil Movie Review
Riveting remake
Remakes are never an easy task. That too to do the Tamil version of aHindi movie that not just won rave reviews but also National award is atough work indeed. But when director Shankar is at the scheme of things, one is obvious that nothing isdifficult.
Nanban , a remake of Three idiots brings together big names like Shankar , Vijay and Harris Jeyaraj . The straight question that pops up in our mind is whether the film lives up to the original. Indeed yes wouldbe the answer. An entertainment in another level is Nanban . The movie speaks of flaws in our educational system in a lighter vein. In other words, it a mass movie from Shankar but without big noise. It is a different movie for both Shankar and Vijay .
Check out the Tamil Movie Review – ‘ Nanban ‘
Story
It is all about one man’s intelligencein exposing the flaws of our educational system. A campus story with characters speaking on friendship, love and laughter. Venkatramakrishnan ( Srikanth ), Sevalkodi Senthil ( Jeeva ) and Panchavan Parivendan ( Pari ) ( Vijay ), are three engineering students who share the same room in their college.
Venki is studying engineering to pursue his father’s wishes over his own wish. Senthil studies to raise his family’s fortunes and get them out of poverty. On the other hand, Pari studies for simple passion in machines and devices. Pari is admirable and adrable character who believes that memorising definitions or doing what professorssay won’t benefit. He understands things and puts them to practice andachieves success in studies. He is more a practical man.
The principal of the college Virumandi Santhanam aka Virus ( Sathyaraj ) has ideas in total contrast to Pari . He loves other student Srivatsan (Silencer), who memories his lessons and gets good colours.
Pari comes across daughter of Virus Riya (Illeana ) and falls for her.For Virus , Pari and his two friends is mere stupid’s. Thanks to Pari , both Venki and Senthil study well. Pari pass out in flying colours. Meanwhile Pari’s heroics, wins him the adulation of all around. Pari helps his friends achieve their dreams. But after exams, Pari disappears. Venki and Senthil with Riya in the company begin their search for Pari . What they encounter in their search shocks them. Did they succeed in their mission or not forms the climax?
Performance
A mass hero like Vijay to do such a role needs amazing guts. A man with great brains, he does all things in a casual manner. Vijay seems to have got under the skin of the character to excel. What more he looks trim fit and fine for the role of a student. Jeeva and Srikanth give him good company. Jeeva looks bubbly and energetic and Srikanth replicates what Maddy did in the original. Ileana is impressive and gets a meaty role to do while Sathyaraj as strict professor and Sathyan in a comical role impresses. A cameo by S J Suryah and Anuya worth a watch.
Technicalities
Shankar strength lies i giving a technically-rich film. So is Nanban . VTV fame Manoj Paramahamsa’s soft lens captures campus life in beautiful colours.
Crisp editing by Anthony adds beauty while Harris Jeyaraj’s songs are foot-tapping especially Asku Laska and En Frienda Pola . Shankar’s swift screenplay specializing making changes that suit Tamil audience is amazing. There are no dull moments in the movie that makes it am engaging fare.
Analysis
A winner is already in Shankar’s hands in the form of Three idiots . He seems to have made it crisply to suit Tamil audience. He has not made any big changes to the script and struck to the original. With Vijay underplaying his emotions and the star cast around playing their part well, Nanban ends up a sweet friend who you love to meet in your life daily.
Plus
* Shankar’s direction
* Vijay’s screen presence
* Loaded with humour
Minus
* Harris songs
* Predictable storyline
Mark – 3.5 /5
Proud to be a Diehard Vijay anna FAN!!
:speechless: Though i have seen 3 idiots when it was out, I have enjoyed Nanban soooo much. Most satisfying movie for me !!
To all those directors who remake the movies, LISTEN! Learn from Shankar sir how to remake the movie.. Brilliant first half never got to see entertainment in any movies than this.
Thalaivaaaaaa Your wonderful thalaivaaa, What a comical sense.
Everyone performed their role very neat. Im sure to me who have seen a original , this movie is a WONDERFUL treat. To all those who have not seen original will enjoy this movie to the core.
Massive response in theatre, two friend of mine who are X actor’s fans enjoyed the movie more than me.
IM VERYYY HAPPY AFTER A LONG TIME.
if there is a word beyond to blockbuster, tag it to Nanban ! Kudoos to director shankar and eachand everyone.
Thalaivaaaa!!
Your great. Hatrick solli adichitiye Thalaivaaa!
though second half is bit lengthy i dont find it as a complaint AS IT IS NOT DRAGGING AT ALL. Ileana was a SEXYY GODDESS,Indeed.
“As I am suffering from Nanban
super movie!!!! Vijay ROCKS!!!
nanban is not nice that we expected,bcoz we see 3-idots so many times
guys dont listen to anybody just watch movie i can say one think after watching nanban Shankar 10th hit film & vijay hatrick film hit kavalan velayudham & nanban
TAK A BOW SHANKAR…MAKING FEEL AL THE DIRECTORS OF VIJAY FEEL REGRETD.
The celebration of Pongal festival begins today, as Shankar’s Nanban, the Tamil version of Bollywood film 3 Idiots, has hit the screens. The too much-awaited movie is a package of fun, twists, good songs, story, crisp dialogues, and last but not the least – a serious message that will make the youths to watch it again and again.
The story is being told on a flashback mode by Venkata Ramakrishnan (Srikanth). It all begins with a ragging of Venkata Ramakrishnan (Srikanth) and Sevalkodi Senthil (Jeeva), where they are made to dance with their underwear. Panchavan aka Pappu (Vijay) arrives – not in his usual way where he is welcomed by a great music or background score – in the tale and he too is being targeted by seniors but he escapes through his wit.
Virumandi Sandanam (Sathyaraj) aka Virus, the principal of the college, believes in achieving success through speed and his notion on the education gets shaky after he encounters Panchavan, whose mantra is to follow excellence, not success, as success will come itself with excellence. The latter gains upper hand in their every face off and it also makes Sandanam to hate him more and more.
Panchavan meets Ria (Ileana), the daughter of Virumandi, accidentally and it ends in an amusing way. Their love blossoms after he proves that her beau is not fit for her and her selection is wrong. At this juncture, differences between Panchavan and Sandanam reach the maximum limit but the principal turn helpless, as the former is the topper in the college. The remaining part of the story is – whose philosophy on success is right.
Shankar has made minor changes in the story. In fact, he has not tried to modify too many things, as it could be a sin to play with such a wonderful subject. The only place where we can see him is in the songs and its picturisation. The filmmaker has made the audience to sit for 3.10 hours on their seats without bothering them to look at their watch. From the word start, the tale keeps you engaged till the end through humour, wit and all the entertaining ingredients.
Vijay, like Aamir Khan in 3 Idiots, looks young and energetic. His body language and acting are treat to watch. His friends Srikanth and Jeeva are as good as him. The duo looks replicas of Madhavan and Sharman Joshi! The trio brings a good amount of laughter throughout the movie. Ileana looks gorgeous and whenever she appears, the actress makes the audience to watch her without blinking their eyes. Sathyaraj is excellent and he is the perfect choice for the character. Sathyan shines in each and every frame and he too fits the bill. The rest of the characters including SJ Surya, who has done cameo, have played their part well. Other aspects like dialogues by Shankar and Madhan Karky are hilarious, Manoj Paramahamsa’s cinematography is illuminating and Harris Jayaraj’s music is wonderful.
One can hardly find out flaws in Nanban because the story does not give you a minute time to find the errors that divert your attention. When the movies are limited to two-hour plus, Nanban amazingly takes you on a long-journey without getting noticed. The film not only entertains but sends out a strong message to the current generation.
Verdict: All is well. It is a Shankar’s Sankrathi feast for the audience! Do not hesitate to watch Nanban even if you have seen 3 Idiots.
super film……………extraordinary…………..awesome no words to say………………. thalaiva u r great!!!
Nanban is a waste film. If u have seen 3 Idiots, there is no point in watching again as Shankar has done a brainless job by copying frame to frame…. Thumbs down
For the past 7 years watched all first show of vijay movie.but i cant watch the first show ,since it released on thursady.waiting for the sunday..nanban rockz!!!
wow! wow! wow! what a perfomance from a promising actor in the mids of 90s and in 2000 to 2004.he had been missed is charming for last 7 years.He is back with his mind blowing perfomance in nanban with the help and support of shankar. Is it a remake? the movie makes us to think that.the people who ever watched 3 idiots, watch nanban u know wat will be next but u feel it like first time u were watching it.Thats were the shankar stands hats off shankar ji.jeeva the guy who makes us feel where he hid is potentiality for last few years.now he is back with bang.sikanth never belived he can ustify madhavan role but he proves he is the best reprise.sathyaraj sir class perfomance.sathyan wow!he is the actor from now on directors to watch out and what a justice he made for omi vaidya role.illena cute.technically speaking world class.
great movie dont misssssssssssss it.
RATING:4.5/5
Fantastic movie ! I watched first and second show in first day continousely . . .I enjoyed much and Ii is best movei for everyone in this film. . . Vijay, Jeeva and Srikanth are very closed like a true friends and very happy to see together in film
Nanban is a great amazing movie par excellent compared to 3 idiots.
vijay makes the difference with his excellent energetic vibrating super performance nice to see a different avatar of vijay
wonderful movie please watch with ur family and a great entertainer
positive anything
negative nothing
super duper blockbuster of the year
vijay is the super star
guys really dont hear anyones review.. jus go and watch.. really a worth watching movie.. hats off to the team… vijay done a great job.. best performance after ghilli…thousand times thumbs up……………….
All is well…. Super story and acting, enjoy 3 hours….Pongal treat for everyone and hatric hit for vijay…
Nanban is worth a watch!
I feels that Nanban is the perfect feel-good fare for the festive season, despite minor glitches.
Many eyebrows were raised when it was announced that the Hindi blockbuster 3 Idiots would be remade in Tamil with Shankar as the director.
Remakes are always tricky, and if the lead actor is a big star, matters get complicated. However, it appears that with Gemini Film Circuit’s Nanban (Friend), both Shankar and Ilaya Thalapathi Vijay have pulled it off.
For starters, there are no starry airs in the title credits, which is a welcome variation. The hero appears a good fifteen minutes into the film and, even better, there are no fights. Panchavan Paarivendan or Paari (Vijay), a first year engineering student in Ideal Engineering College, seems to be a bit of a rebel when it comes to learning and doesn’t take his classes seriously. But it’s the system he’s against, not education itself.
Which cannot be said of his two friends Venkatraman (Srikanth) and Sevarkodi Senthil (Jiiva), who desperately want to pass every exam because that’s what’s expected of them. Thrown into the mix is Silencer (Satyan), an irritating know-it-all who always meets his nemesis at Paari’s hands. And then there’s the principal of the college, Virumandi Sandhanam aka Virus (Sathyaraj), who’s out to get our trio.
In the midst of all this is Paari’s emerging love affair with Riya (Ileana), a medical student. Of course, the fact that she’s Virus’s daughter only complicates things.
In many ways Nanban isn’t really about events, plot-points or sudden twists; it’s the story of two friends who see light in their lives through another.
Vijay as Paari is the life and soul of the story. This is the guy you desperately want to see on-screen. Vijay has, after quite a while, has dived into a role as a do-gooder who isn’t very saintly. As Paari he’s funny, honest, and genuinely wants to see his friends happy. But he also happens to be a genius. It’s a very appealing combination. There is less of dancing and fighting and more of feel-good emotions and humour. He is, frankly, a joy to watch.
Jiiva and Srikanth provide able support. The desperation in Jiiva’s eyes and his frustration with his circumstances are very real. Srikanth, as the clear-cut “engineer-prototype” does well.
Satyan’s turn as the Silencer brings plenty of laughs, especially with his speech on Teacher’s Day.
Sathyaraj is more of a caricature, although he does redeem himself in certain moments and during the climax. Still, his character could have done with some more depth.
Ileana, despite having a couple of laugh-out-loud moments towards the end, is just eye-candy. There’s no real purpose to her role.
Except for Ask Laska (picturised in tongue-in-cheek fashion) and perhaps En Frienda Pola, Harris Jeyaraj’s music is largely unappealing. T Muthuraj’s art work fits the bill, while Manoj Paramahamsa’s camera work is slick, neat, and most importantly, non-intrusive.
The editing could do with some finesse too. At more than three hours, Anthony could definitely have wielded his scissors better.
The dialogues, written by Shankar and Karky, falter at times but scrape through even if they carry a good many platitudes.
You do see shades of the Hindi remake, but it has Shankar’s touches as well.
Logic does go for a toss at times; there are moments when everything is too syrupy-sweet. The pace is jerky, and the voice-overs don’t really serve much purpose.
And yet, it offers hope, and the promise of everything turning out good in the end. It’s perfect feel-good fare. And Vijay is at his best. Worth a watch.
`Nanban`, the Tamil remake of Bollywood blockbuster `3 Idiots` starring Vijay, Jeeva and Srikanth is all set to hit the silver screen this Friday. The comic flick that revolves round three thick friends has been directed by ace filmmaker Shankar and has already taken Tamil Nadu by storm!
It is a double whammy for Tamil superstar Vijay’s fans, for they will get to celebrate Pongal and also watch their idol sizzle the big screen as Panchavan Parivendan aka Pari in the Tamil adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s ‘Five Point Someone’.
The ticket booking counters were flocked by diehard fans even before the release of the film. Reportedly, all the tickets got sold within few hours of opening.
Harris Jayaraj has composed the music for the film and his compositions have thoroughly enthralled the audiences.
The film will see Vijay essaying the role played by Aamir in the film while Jeeva and Srikanth will be portraying the characters essayed by Madhavan and Sharman Joshi respectively. And veteran actor Sathyaraj will be playing Boman Irani’s character.
We are sure Vijay’s fans would be earnestly waiting to watch the film!
Are we right people?
Around two years ago, I had the opportunity to see “3 Idiots” in Trichy’s Cauvery Cinema Hall which was totally packed with college students from the delta region. Each and every scene in the film had the audience applauding rapturously and cheering together, not because they were die-hard fans of Aamir Khan, but because the screenplay was great. It went on to win the National Award for best wholesome entertainer.
Today, I saw Nanban, the same movie presented by one of Tamil Cinema’s biggest directors, Shankar. Nanban’s budget was Rs. 60 crore almost twice that of its original version and I had to pay thrice as much for the ticket to watch it during the opening weekend. I am not sure if it will end up collecting half as much money (Rs. 350 crore by 3 Idiots), but in all fairness, the film is not disappointing. Finding faults in it becomes very difficult because it is a page to page copy of 3 idiots, including a lot of smaller details.
It is for that same reason that Nanban will succeed in impressing all kinds of audiences, especially the youth who are in college. But that is all it will get and nothing more.
We have seen remakes go horribly wrong when scripts travel across different states in India, as directors try to adapt the screenplay for their superstar local hero. This is where Shankar makes a difference. We might have seen him make compromises in movies like Sivaji and Endhiran in order to bring out the magnitude in Rajinikanth but with Nanban, he seems to be much disciplined. The story, as obvious as it might be, is not stupid and fans should be totally grateful to Shankar for not letting anyone mess around with the script.
Madhan Karky who has written the screenplay along with Shankar has done a good job. Manoj Paramahamsa, who was behind the camera in VTV and Shankar’s own production Eeram has been opted for Nanban is very impressive and creative with his shots. Editing by Anthony also deserves a mention.
I would have loved to see him be modest about making the film without making so many expenses. The songs in particular, seemed like an overdose of gloss. But those are the things that would be loved by the fans and will help in promoting the movie. After all, it is the least you can expect from a Shankar film.
Coming to the casting, I must say that I was pleasantly surprised by the way things came out on the screen. A lot of things were refreshing. Let’s take a closer look at the performance of everyone.
Vijay jumps into the shoes of Aamir Khan to play the lead role of ‘Pari’, the genius student (that’s what they claim him to be) who cannot only pass every subject but become the topper with ease that cannot be understood. Without being opinionated, I must say that Vijay was good in Nanban. Understandable is the fact that it would be hard for a man, who is known to be acting in similar movies over and over again, to take up a role that doesn’t need him to be a hero (and NOT do a lot of funny stuff). He is much better with his expressions and is funny on all situations that require him to be funny. There is still a lot of room for improvement but this is not the Vijay we saw in Kuruvi, Vettaikaaran or Sura. He does well in emotional scenes, which is important because Nanban is very much an emotional movie. Apart from these factors, his dance moves are still in place and his performance in the song “Irukkaana” deserves a mention.
Jiiva, in particular, stands out from the rest of the crew for making things so funny in the movie. It is hard to remember him as a mainstream actor seeing him in Nanban where he delivers one of the best supporting comedy roles in Tamil cinema.
Srikanth, who we have seen doing different things in Tamil Cinema has also escaped from my wrath. Before the movie, I thought he would be the weakest link among the three actors but he has come through with a decent performance that doesn’t have anything much bad about it.
Overall, the chemistry between the three of them was great. It could be seen in each and every seen. I didn’t see them doing so well in their independent scenes or even in their independent movies as a matter of fact.
Sathyaraj who has played the role of Virus (Virumaandi Santhanam) is amazing. Taking up a character of someone totally psychotic, he makes the audience laugh out loud on several occasions and also make them curse him the rest of the time. Virus is so caught up behind Pari in the story and I do not see anyone else doing a better job, not even the very versatile Prakash Raj. This is one big name actor who impresses greatly coming back into the picture of a big movie, after a long time.
Ileana who was picked only after efforts to sign Katrina Kaif failed looks cute and cuddly throughout the film. In fact, I still can’t believe that she is actually so puny. There are heroines who do glamour shots and impress audiences, but Ileana is of the other kind. She has priceless expressions and good body language throughout the movie. Her dances reminded me of Shreya and I mean that as a complement. Not a lot of time on the screen, but Ileana makes a mark, although not a big one.
Satyan perhaps with his biggest role yet in Tamil cinema yet as Srivathsan (Silencer) does fairly well, but there are more than one occasion where I could see him overdoing a bit. Still, deserves some praise none the less. S.J.Suryah, Anuya and Raghava Lawrence all play their small roles. Anuya in particular seems to have forgotten her days in Siva Manasula Sakthi(SMS).
Harris Jeyaraj’s music is passable, but does not make do. In many ways, that’s the bottom line for the movie too.
Overall, Nanban is a great entertainer. You will laugh with all our heart many a times when you see the movie. It however falls much short of 3 Idiots. I could not shake the feeling that the entire project was made just to make a lot of money. Shankar was very disciplined but this was far from his best and he should really consider making a movie with Kamal Hassan again to get his priorities in order. It is a step up for Vijay and Jiiva and I am kind of sure we can’t expect anything more from Srikanth in the future.
Plainly put, Nanban will not break any records. It takes too many leaves from the 3 Idiots book. It may a make a lot of money, but it will be forgotten.
Verdict – Laugh and forget.
awsum movie…..it challenged aamir….i think this is the 1st movie hit 4m remaking…..i really njoyd the movie…..
The movie was great for Tamilians because of director Shankar. Rest all are waste. Vijay is waste he can’t act like Aamir inspite of remake. Other than vijay, all was good.
Nanban, worth to watch. Very Good Movie.
For Anti-Vijay fans, dont post against truth.
really a nice movie i
Wow….. nanban movie is jus awesome……. Vijay anna i’m proud to be ur fan……. THALAIVA UR GRT…… njoyd those 3 hour…..
Exactly donot follow the negative comments even I am the fan of 3 idiots but Nanban will make u feel as if you are watching for the first time. Our Vijay is back with his beautiful simple character. He proved his talent in a quite manner……………………..
Nanban very good entertainer movie for pongal. I m not a vijay fan… anyhow vijay is very smart in this movie. Nanban fully satisfied the 3 idiots.
Really guaranteed movie for your money spend to ticket.
awesome movie………..a must watch………..
Director Shankar’s Nanban, starring Vijay, Jiiva, Srikanth, Sathyaraj, Sathyan, and Ileana has come as a fresh air in the arena that is filled with mindless clichés. The movie has a strong message to the society and it tells it in an enjoyable manner. Hats off Shankar and co for making this to happen in Tamil.
Vijay and Shankar have the guts to attempt a movie that doesn’t belong to their styles. Nanban puts forth a strong criticism on our education system and the approach of our parents towards their kids. It talks about the pressure and the importance of pursuing one’s own interest and dream in best possible manner.
Venkatramakrishnan (Srikanth) and Sevalkodi Senthil (Jiiva) are succesfull professionals in their chosen ways. They studied together in a college a decade ago. Now they want to meet their dear friend Panchavan Parivendan alias Pari (Vijay), who had effected a magical change in their lives.
Pari is a genius. He has unique ways of looking at things and different methods of working. He is not the one who goes behind books blindly. For him, studying is an enjoyable experience. He guides his friends who struggle to find their identity and the elusive success. He teaches them to pursue what their inner heart tells them and he motivates them to develop courage to make their dream reality.
Principal Virumandi Santhanam (Sathyaraj) is a hardcore believer of the system. He cannot tolerate mediocrity in any form. He is irritated by the unorthodox ways of Pari.
Principal’s daughter Riya (Ileana D’Cruz), quite impressed by Pari’s uniqueness, falls for him.
Gradually Pari wins the hearts of everyone and the principal gets furious. The conflict grows and the principal decides to teach Pari and his close friends a lesson. He catches Pari when he steals the question paper to help his friend. Principal shows him the doors a twist in the tale makes him rethink his decision.
Though Pari emerges as topper in the collage he vanishes all of a sudden as soon as the course gets completed. No one knows where he goes and what he is up to. His friends search for him for ten years. Finally they get a clue and they embark on a journey to find him.
Are they able to find him?
Shankar has chosen to remake this film that doesn’t suit his style. But he has done a marvelous job by recreating the magic of the original with all Tamil flavor. The movie is so interesting that you don’t feel that it runs for three hours. Shankar has executed the scenes well. The scenes depicting the changes in the lives of Jiiva and Srikath are moving. The child birth scene was outstanding in the original and Shankar has matched it perfectly. He has given attention to the minutest details to make the movie enjoyable. There are many scenes that brings tears in the eyes of the viewers.
Some scenes however, lack credibility. For example the scene when Ileana comes to Vijay’s room in a drunken state and Vijays visit to her home during night. These scenes are entertaining but they lack credibility. The reason behind Pari’s vanishing act is not at all convincing.
Vijay excels in a role that doesn’t give any scope for his brand of action, comedy, and romance. Finally Vijay has got a real different role and he handles it with amazing ease. Jiiva and Srikanth have rendered strong performance. The script has provided almost equal scope for everyone to perform and these two have utilized it well. Srikanth is outstanding in the scene where he meets his parents to tell about his dream and Jiiva is awesome in the interview scene.
Sathyaraj has given a powerful performance and Sathyan has provided comic relief.
Ileana D’Cruz, the fabulous beauty, adds colour to the fare. She also gets scope to perform and she proves her mettle with ease.
Manoj Paramahamsa’s camera work is top class and Harris Jayaraj’s music is trendy.
Overall, Nanban is a top class entertainer with a strong message.
It is very Great and Mind Blowing Review of this Movie.
http://forum.nolife-tv.com/member.php?u=96676
My Vijay Anna Movie Am Cent % Sure That Nanban Is Better Than 3 Idiots… Even 3 Idiots Director Rajkumar Hirani Only Told In Snehithudu(Nanban) Audio Launch… Even Amir Khan Also Said… Kaavalan Lovely Hit Velayudham Massive Hit Nanban Mass Class Mega Tera Hit… Hatts Off To All Team Members Especially Shankar Sir And My Vijay Anna…. Ileana Power Pact Performance… Very Gorgeous Love U… Jeeva Shreekanth Hats Off Chanceless… U Guys Did Better Than Ur Previous Movies Thanks For Co-operating My Vijay Anna… Sathyan Great Job… Really Amazing… Hatts Off Whole Team… Frnds Dnt Hear To Thumbs Down Comments… Just Go And Watch.. Full Entertainment…. If U Cant U Will Miss 3 Beautiful Hours… Come On Frnds….
Allllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll Issssssssssssssssssssssss Wellllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll
Thalaivaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Vijay Annaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa U R Great…
Ratings : 4.5/5
Devi who played Jeeva’s sister in Shankar’s Nanban will be seen in a prominent role in Maniratnam’s Kadal..
The actress from Koothu-p-pattarai is a happy woman and simply owe her credits to director Shankar as it had given her a lot of recognition..
A popular face in the theatre circuit,she debuted in the Major Ravi film, Mission 90 Days, in the sensitive role of Dhanu (Rajiv Gandhi’s assassin).
She was quoted saying “I run a theatre group and conduct workshops regularly. One day I got a call from Shankar sir’s office.They offered me an unconventional comical role with a dark make-up and asked if I was interested. Many people dissuaded me but finally I took a call and it paid off..
Sources say, she will play the role of the hero’s mother in Mani Ratnam’s Kadal..The actress who is happy to be working with ace directors is in talks for a few more films & she wants to do only important roles…