Sivaji The BOSS - The day after

Just watched Mr Rajnikanth's latest movie, and I dont know what to say. Actually, I want to say too many things at once...

For one, its a long movie. Well over 3 hours on the clock, but seems like the end of all time on the theater seat.

Secondly, the heroine - Shriya. Wow! Looks great in every frame; even in some of the most outlandishly-shot song sequences. Probably the best reason to watch this movie.

Then the ambience. Probably a multiplex is not the best place to experience a Rajni movie. I was the only person to let out catcalls and whistles through the whole movie. Sad, but true. Multiplex-goers suck ! Having their hands full of nachos, popcorn, bottled water doesnt help either.

The storyline? Formula Shankar-fare. Protagonist is a man of integrity, gets frustrated of the corrupt system and takes the law into his own hands. Nothing new. The humour is good; Rajni has always been good at that part, and his sidekick-Vivek does a good job. So much for the substance. The form? Like Janice ( of F*R*I*E*N*D*S fame ) says, O...My...Gaaawd... Mr Shankar seems to think that saying "Cool" at the end of every sentence is cool. I dont know what to say. Also, there is substantial skin show, but discreetly done only in the song sequences. In the other scenes, the heroine is the typical Bharatiya naari. A great balancing act between Rajni's clean family entertainment, and the current trends. Bravo Mr Shankar, u got that one right !

Finally to the man himself... The BOSS ( which incidentally stands for Bachelor of Social Service ). Well, the Boss is in pretty bad shape. At 58, he can hardly move his hips. Every scene requiring some physical exertion appears to be excruciating to the Boss. I cant help but compare him to his older peer, Amitabh Bachchan, who at 65(I think?) is acting in half the Hindi movies made and shaking his leg with Gusto on screen and in award shows. The Boss looks to be badly in need of serious medical attention.

Overall, it was a mediocre experience salvaged only by some bits of good comedy and Shriya's presence. But, for all Rajni fans, this movie is a must-see; it looks like the last movie he will ever make, by the looks of it.