Socially responsible 

Saala

– Review

Aruldoss adopts a young lad, Dheeran who saves his life in a fight to procure a bar called Parvathy Bar. When he grows up Dheeran’s only aim is to get back that bar for his mentor.

In the present time, the bar is also covered by their business rival and don, Charles Vinoth.

In the meantime, in the course of his activities promoting his boss’ bar chain, Dheeran meets a teacher and activist Reshma Venkatesh who is dead against liquor sales and bars,  and

Dheeran is slowly  drawn towards her sincerity and the orphan kids she supports.

Things get serious  when Charles starts selling illicit liquor with dangerous chemicals in it for more money.  

He also enters into the election fray and bids for the auction and reopening of the Parvathy bar, which brings him into direct confrontation with Aruldoss and Dheeran.

What happens next ? Who gets the bar forms the core plot of the movie.

Director S D Manipaul should be appreciated for making his debut with this film which is very socially responsible.

With statistics to back his claims added to dialogues of key characters. He also shows the tragic effects on families and the suffering it causes, which leaves an impression.

However, Some moments seem rushed and the focus of the story keeps shifting.

Dheeran with his physique and body language is well cast and apt for his role. 4

He plays the role impressively, especially shining in the action blocks, even pulling off a song and dance sequence.

Reshma Venkatesh, shines in this,  her debut film, in a well written role.

Every character, right from the various baddies to Shrinath with his witty one-liners, to the kids, has been well chosen and each of them deliver  solid performances, which helps the film.

Music by Theeson is impressive and cinematography by Ravindhranth Guru has captured the proceedings in an effective manner.
 
Rating: 3.8/5

By Naveen