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EDITOR'S PICK
Rating: **
"Yaksha" is produced by T.P. Siddaraju, who made blockbuster movie
"Duniya". The film hogged limelight when National Award winning actor
Nana Patekar agreed to make an appearance in a special role - this is his first
Kannada film.
But otherwise "Yaksha" is just an ordinary revenge saga with the usual
songs, fights and nothing spectacular to write home about. It cannot be compared
to Siddaraju`s previous films.
"Yaksha" starts off well and the stylishly made film initially gives
an impression that the audiences are in for a big treat. But as the story moves
on, it disappoints as director has messed up the storyline.
The film drags on and audiences are disinterested by the time it reaches
interval. Nana`s entry brings in some respite and for 30 minutes it is a treat
to watch the great actor despite his indifferent dubbing work.
Once Nana makes an exit, the film again falls into its formulaic trap with
predictable and dull sequences diluting the impact.
What brings some relief is two beautifully picturised songs including "Om
Namaha", which was canned in Bangkok. Music director Anoop Sileen has
composed some racy numbers for the film and cinematographer Chandrashekhar has
also done a good job in capturing stunning visuals.
The quality of technical work has improved in recent Kannada movies and in the
film too it is visible.
Ramesh Bhagawat has borrowed ideas seen in films like "Drohakaal" and
"Chal" where the main characters infiltrate into the enemy camp.
The narrative shows that Yaksha Pulikeshi is a trained magician and uses his
skills to get clsoe to notorious don Machchendranath Poonja. After Yaksha`s
entry into the gang, Poonja`s several trusted henchman are killed under
mysterious circumstances.
By the time Poonja finds out that Yaksha is the son of police officer Pulikeshi
whom he had killed, it is too late for him to fix things.
Despite giving a hit, Yogish has yet to learn nuances of acting. However his
efforts in the dance and fight sequences are impressive.
Nana Patekar makes a good screen presence but his diction and dialogue delivery
should have been corrected while dubbing. Atul Kulkarni is really menacing as a
villain. The film`s heroine Ruby Pariwar shows her prowess in two songs, but
otherwise she had nothing much to do.
Talented artists like Master Hirannaiah and Kishore have not been utilised
properly. Komal`s comedy fails to bring in laughs, it rather irritates.
Except for its dance picturisation and good visuals, "Yaksha" is an
ordinary fare which can be enjoyed by Yogish`s ardent fans.