Movie: Maayan

Director: Nasser
Cast: Nasser, Ranjita, Roja, Vadivelu, Bala Singh, Thalaivasal Vijay and Revati.

Set in the pre-independence era, it is about a man who attempts to change the existing feudal system with all its existing evils. Maayan rebels, turns an outlaw, takes refuge in the forest, a Robin hood to his people, a nightmare to the feudal lords. His cousin whom he loves (Ranjita), tries to bind him with her love, berates him for inviting trouble, soon realises her error, commits suicide, releasing him from the shackle of love, free to carry on his mission. 

A travelling folk dancer he meets (Roja), admires his courage and sensitivity, falls for him, and pitches in her bit to help his cause. A chance encounter with Mangal Naidu (Thalaivasal Vijai) a revolutionary instils in Maayan a sense of patriotism, and Maayan extends his fight to the traitors of country who worked for the imperial British. Maayan has to contend with a mole in his own camp, and also a cop who is determined to get him. 

The narrative flows smoothly, though the second half could have been trimmed a little. Nasser is more focused and displays a firmer grasp over the medium than he had done in his earlier two directorial ventures. As Maayan, he gives a consummate performance, mature and sensitive. 

The film is well crafted with some punchy dialogue (Sundara Thirumal), the treatment deft. Deva's tunes suit the ambience; the songs are well placed, and the fight scenes realistic. The locations are catchy, P.S. Dharan's camera catching the action effectively.

Ranjita re-establishes her credentials as an actress of calibre. Roja looks good here, her performance acquiring a sheen and maturity. Vadivelu's character as the acid-tongued village barber is an integral part of the story, the actor too having done his part well. The artistes who play Nasser's three friends, and the actor who play Nasser's father leave their mark. Revati comes in a cameo, and leaves her mark. 'Maayan' is a little different, and better than the average fare.