The Tam version was simply brilliant. Vikram carried the movies on his very able shoulders. Ash was restrained by Mani (she has potential do cause much damage by her lack of acting skill), so though she has not elevated the movie to a different league, atleast she hasn’t caused terrible damage.
The supporting cast played their roles well (with the exception of one minor forest guard character- Karthik). Prithviraj (who plays the SP’s role in Tamil) was effective and his character has shades of gray that make him real, rather than a ’Ram’. since Vikram’s character has many shades of the good, this provides for an interesting twist.
Breathtaking visuals, muted use of colour in clothing (in sync with the background of forest hamlets poverty) allows the verdant green and the flow of water to take center stage.
All in all, Vikram - with Mani’s help, the camera work and Rahman’s music - draws you deep into his world. Vairamuthu’s lyrics actually add richness to Rahman’s music and add many many layers to the movie (which are not communicated in the story line directly).
Vikram deserved the title role and has created a powerful protagonist whose character stays with you long after the movie is over.