I still remember the first time I searched for Aravaan in YouTube and that was because my friend mentioned that singer Karthik was turning a music director with this movie. I found it and fell in love with the song 'Nilaa Nilaa' and the way it was picturised. Since then, many months have gone by and there I was, sitting with my friends at Anjali Theatre, Trivandrum to watch Aravaan.

Aravaan is a movie inspired by a Tamil novel. The movie tells the story of Chinna (played by Aadi) and how he leaves behind a life of hidden identity. With his new name Veera Puli, he moves to a village where men are thieves and robbery is their means of livelihood. Explaining more about the story line would be a foolish  attempt since it’s so confusing. Yes, the language is difficult to understand as it’s a Tamil movie, which is set back in the 18th century.

Everyone would naturally expect a war and action movie from the trailers shown on the television. But Aravaan has nothing to do with all that. It is about Chinna's life and times. So if you go, go with no expectations. At least that will keep you from getting disappointed.

Vasanthabalan has done nothing close to his previous hit Angadi Theru. Aadi's got  the looks for the role, but seemed more refined that rustic. Pashupathi had a six pack!!! Was that a  graphic effect? No idea. The movie is technically sound though the animations tried weren’t that good. Many characters come and go but do not play any pivotal roles. Archana Kavi is useless in any role and this is what she has proved once again; Swetha Menon was there or wasn’t she? Dhansika as Chinna’s love did a decent job though she also looked like a model straight off the ramp. Everyone was missing the look and mannerisms that we would expect of a 18th century Tamilian, but they all looked rather too polished.