Maaran Movie Review: A Weak Story Dims Down Dhanush's Acting Prowess

An actor like Dhanush, playing an investigative journalist in itself is enough to get the audience excited about 'Maaran'. The movie, written and directed by Karthick Naren, brings the story of a righteous journalist on his mission to expose the corrupt politician. Things take a turn for the worst when his family is targeted and he sets out on a mission to set things straight. The excitement in the movie ebbs and flows, with some moments hitting the right nerve while others fall flat. Actress Malvika Mohanan plays the role of a journalist Tara, a colleague of Dhanush and also implied love interest. The movie looks like an example of a good story treated carelessly with the audience waiting for it to pick up pace.

What's Hot
Dhanush's acting. However, it is only for the love of the actor that the audience can enjoy the film.  Surprisingly, the only actor besides Dhanush, who looks in sync with his character is the actor, who has played the role of police officer Arjun. The integration of social media is definitely an impressive element and adds contemporary touch to the story. The second half of the film is definitely stronger as the story picks up some pace and the audience can start feeling the thrill. 

What's Not
The story appears to lack impact. With a film that has all elements of entertainment, it looks like moments are jumbled up making it appear weak. The world of journalism and investigative journalism is shown in a very caricaturist manner, often missing out on what a newsroom in today's time actually looks like. The movie seems to be edited in a haphazard way, with some moments being cut to fit it within the timeline. Many scenes lack closure. For instance, the love angle between Tara (played by Malvika Mohanan) feels forced and adds no value to the story. Some scenes like Maaran's sister calling Tara, a photojournalist, for a photo shoot don't make sense at all in the larger scheme of things. The corresponding scene of Maaran injuring the goons with his pen should have given out the underlying message of a pen's power but again, doesn't generate any emotion in you.

Verdict
Watch 'Maaran' if you are a Dhanush fan and cheer for him. He tries very hard to save this film. Actor Smrithi Venkat, as Shwetha, plays her part well. Actor Samuthirakani as the corrupt politician is convincing and so is Aadukalam Naren.  One definitely can feel a little let down and even angry at parts because it just doesn't let Dhanush shine the way he can.