One of the most loved characters in Tamil Cinema, Raghuvaran from Velai Illa Pattadhari is now back again with VIP 2, as a more matured, family man.
Raghuvaran (Dhanush), who is working in Anitha Constructions, is being cornered by a real estate construction big shot Vasundhara Parameshwaran (Kajol) of Vasundhara Constructions. But why is he being cornered and why do Raghuvaran and Vasundhara have to lock horns? For those who ponder about the film's title, and is he once again becoming a Velai Illa Pattadhari is a surprise to watch out for! The cat and mouse game between Raghuvaran and Vasundhara is what the film is all about.
Dhanush is at his easy best, and he once again makes us fall in love with the character. He effortlessly essays the role with total charm. When he performs a few Superstar gestures, it is lovable to watch onscreen. Amala Paul, as the regular housewife, gives her best and her chemistry with Dhanush is good. Kajol, the Vennilave beauty is back to Kollywood after a big break and this comeback film has ample moments for her. Especially, her performance towards the end is very impressive. Samuthirakani and Vivek score equally good just the way they did in the first part. Ritu Varma replaces Surabhi’s role in a brief appearance.
Right from the initial minutes of the film, it takes you through many nostalgic moments and the audience is already emotionally attached to the characters from the word go. The characterisation of Vasundhara is impressive and they have balanced the sketching perfectly in an interesting manner. Her lip sync could have been better at few places, but otherwise, a fitting voice has been provided to her. Soundarya Rajinikanth's screenplay is engaging and takes the right path.
Dhanush's story and dialogues give immense support to Soundarya’s screenplay and act as a pillar of strength. The last twenty minutes of the film is a surprising watch and you would not see what you’d have expected. The biggest strength of VIP was the liveliness of the characters, and that strength is being maintained even in the sequel. Look out for Saranya Ponvannan’s appearance, which may guarantee a few goosebumps.
On the flip side, the film falls predictable, mostly in the first half and only in the last twenty minutes, you find a good surprise. The entire fast half, though enjoyable, it is something that we've seen already and there is nothing fresh. The background music could have been a lot more impactful and one cannot avoid the feeling of missing Anirudh's punch in the movie. The first video song, Nada Da Raja doesn't make you dance and it could've been executed more powerfully. The film takes a while to get on the right track, as the majority of first half consists of family scenes.
Sean’s songs are good and Iraivanai Thandha Iraiviye is easily the pick of the album. However, the film's background score is an open debate as you can find both Anirudh's and Sean's scores being blended. Sameer’s visuals and GK Prasanna’s cuts are neat and clean. Soundarya has tried to make sure the film is as entertaining as the first part, she has succeeded to a major extent and won't leave the audience disappointed.