Maaniik

Ma Ka Pa’s previous film Panchumittai was a one-of its-kind magical realism, which unfortunately, had a terrible screenplay. With Maanik, too, he has attempted a different genre which has ample fantasy and spoof elements. Many ladies come in the life of Maanik (Ma K Pa) though it is Keerthi (Suza) who loves him sincerely. Maanik is cursed by a fate that the father of any girl whom he proposes passes away. One day, he and his friend get kidnapped by a dreaded goon (Aruldoss) in town, and are asked by the latter to indulge in criminal activities. How both of them escape from his clutches forms the story.

The film has an intriguing plot which is let down by a below average screenplay. Though the logical loopholes are justified by the film’s genre, there are instances that are unconvincing. At the same time, there are certain dialogues that evince laughter, but such instances rare. Ma Ka Pa’s performance as a confused youngster who falls frequently into troubles is apt for the role, while Aruldoss’s portrayal of a goon who murders almost 700 people goes overboard and tests patience. Maanik would have been a decent fun ride had the screenplay been a little better with convincingly written characters.