CHENNAI 600028 2ND INNINGS

Years have passed; the uber cool fun gang of cricketers get old. They are no more single, not as passionate in cricket as they once used to be with family burden taking the front seat. But there is one thing that still keeps them together which is their friendship. So here we have the Shark team reuniting to save a love life of one of their friends. Were they able to do it? Check out the film.

Venkat Prabhu is best when it comes to using some of the nostalgic moments in a best way. Here again, be it the dance choreography in ‘Soppana Sundari’, that ‘bowling or fielding ah’ comedy, he has perfectly infused some of his best previous film moments adequately to boost the proceedings.

The first part had an ideal blend of cricket, sentiment, love, friendship and a seesaw battle with the rivals and nothing looked force-fitted. But here, we feel there is a slight compromise with the overall script to make it more edgy for neutral audience to enjoy. To make the game more interesting, VP had given an added weightage to the opponent which leads to a more intense battle. The way cricket is linked to the proceedings in the second half looks interesting and enjoyable.

One of the toughest jobs as a director while making a sport based film is to create suspenseful moments that the audience would not predict. There is moment where a ball is hit at Premji Amaran; it is a crucial wicket. We know how good a fielder he is in the 1st part. So did he catch it? Most of us would think he would since we know it cannot be dropped. So what happens? Check it out in theatres. That scene is handled very well.

As regards performance, Vaibhav gets it perfect. All that Siva has to do is to look at the camera and say a normal dialogue which is enough to bring the roof down. Venkat Prabhu has brought in lots of interesting elements such as his digs on online reviewers, wives at the match and commenatary of Badava Gopi to name a few.

Yuvan's songs and BGM work big time for the film. However, a couple of songs could have been easily put away. Especially the ‘House Party’ number which looks a complete misfit to the situation. The screenplay is pretty fast; KL Praveen’s editing needs to be lauded for that. More so for the title song which is made from the collection of numerous fan videos, a fascinating edit work that is.


Love is the core purpose for all the struggles but since its essence gets hidden behind the sub-plot called cricket, you are not able to relate emotionally to the situation at places.


Chennai 28-II will satisfy the audience who adores Venkat Prabhu’s brand of comedies as you have plenty of them in it. There has been a lot of work behind comedy portions, loads of them were made in a subtle way which would only grab your attention while watching the second time. 

In short, Venkat Prabhu has played an enjoyable second innings. 

Chennai 28 Second Innings, a Venkat Prabhu reunion saw the release of its album today. Composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja, here's how the album played out...

Nee Kidaithai

Singers: Haricharan, Chinmayi Sripada
Lyricist: Niranjan Bharathi

A subtle duet with powerful vocals. Haricharan's voice strikes softly while Chinmayi’s melts away melodiously. Yuvan has mixed folk beats with slightly retro guitar interludes which make the song sound subtle. While the song gives out an aura of pleasantness it is less impacting and should work well with visuals. Thumbs up...but only after repeated listening.

Houseparty

Singer: Senthil Dass
Lyricist: Madhan Karky

Funky beats with the U1 touch. Houseparty does sound hip, thanks to a chorus that clicks and funky beats that appeal. Though the song doesn’t exhilarate like it’s predecessor Jalsa Pannungada, it does excite.

Idhu Kadhaya

Singers: Sean Roldan, Khareshma Ravichandran
Lyrics: Parthi Bhaskar

Idhu Kadhaya somehow starts off sounding like standard Yuvan. While the song kickstarts with the oscillating vocals of Khareshma, it progresses with low-pitched Sean Roldan. Thanks and credits to Parthi Bhaskar for beautiful lines on friendship and life. And a big ‘thank you’ to Yuvan for bringing back memories through the last few seconds of ‘Yaaroo’

Soppana Sundari

Singers: Venkat Prabhu, Yuvan Shankar Raja, karthick Raja, Premji
Lyrics: Venkat Prabhu

Soppana Sundari hits right in the feels! A perfect dance beat. As the song progress, the Harmonies help keep up the vibe. A song made for the playlist. Thumbs up ma!

Boys Are back

Singer  : Vasuki Bhaskar, Bhavatharini, Yuvan Shankar Raja, Madurai Souljour
Lyricist  : Karunakaran

Oh yes! What a way to announce the comeback of the Sharks! Already on the playlist of many. Special mention to the rap portions by Madurai Souljour. Double thumbs up for the boys!