Darbar Review

Thalavir Rajinikanth and director AR Murugadoss's action drama, Darbar is one of the most awaited films in the Sankranthi season. Amidst good expectations, Darbar has hit the screens today. Let's analyze it.

Story:

Set in the Mumbai backdrop, Darbar is the cat and mouse game between a cop named Aaditya Arunachalam (Rajinikanth) and a high profile don Hari Chopra (Sunil Shetty). Who is Hari Chopra? Why did Aaditya Arunachalam target him? Is there any backstory behind it? Forms the crucial crux in the plotline.

Analysis:

Undoubtedly, Rajinikanth is the main USP of the film as he carried the entire film with his stylish screen presence and massy mannerisms. Looks-wise, he is too young on the screen and delivers an energetic performance in the cop role.

Yet another main pillar of the film is Hari Chopra's role portrayed by Sunil Shetty. He is believable as a new-age don.

Nayanthara, Nivetha Thomas is okay in their supporting roles. Comedian Yogi Babu evokes decent fun at parts.

Coming to the direction skills, director AR Murugadoss' has come up with the ages-old storyline that lacks freshness in it. Leaving aside the story, Murugadoss disappoints with his narration part which turns in a mediocre in the second half. He failed to utilized Rajinikanth's superstardom in a proper manner.

Plus Points:

Rajinikanth's look and presence

A few hero elevation scenes

Minus Points:

Water-thin storyline

Unengaging screenplay

Flat narration

Verdict:

All in all, Darbar is a routine template cop drama that has a few fan moments. Rajinikanth's makeover and a few of his stylish mannerisms are nice but dull and predictable narration make it a disappointing watch.

Rating: 2.5/5