Dasavatharam is a 2008 Tamil-language science fiction action film directed by K. S. Ravikumar. The film stars Kamal Haasan in ten different roles, along with Asin, Mallika Sherawat, and Jayaprada in supporting roles. It is one of the most ambitious films in Indian cinema, showcasing a gripping story, multiple timelines, and an intense screenplay.
The movie received mixed to positive reviews, with audiences praising Kamal Haasan’s versatility and the grand scale of the film while some felt the complex story was hard to follow.
Story and Screenplay
The film follows a biotechnologist named Govind (Kamal Haasan) who is trying to protect a dangerous biological weapon from falling into the wrong hands. The story spans different timelines, including the 12th century and the present day, and explores ten different characters played by Kamal Haasan.
The screenplay is fast-paced and engaging, though at times, it can feel overwhelming due to the multiple narratives and scientific elements. The film successfully blends action, history, science, and drama, making it unique in Tamil cinema.
Acting Performance
Kamal Haasan’s performance is outstanding, as he plays ten different roles with distinct characteristics, including a priest, a scientist, an old lady, a martial artist, and a villain.
Asin plays the female lead and does well, though her role is overshadowed by Kamal Haasan’s performances.
Mallika Sherawat appears in a glamorous role but doesn’t add much to the story.
The supporting cast, including Jayaprada and Napoleon, deliver strong performances, adding depth to the historical portions of the film.
Direction and Technical Aspects
K. S. Ravikumar’s direction is commendable, as handling such a complex script with multiple storylines and characters is a challenging task.
The cinematography by Ravi Varman is top-notch, with stunning visuals, especially in the historical portions and action sequences.
The editing is sharp, but some portions feel stretched due to the excessive details in the screenplay.
The visual effects are impressive for the time, though some CGI moments appear outdated today.
Music and Background Score
The music by Himesh Reshammiya is decent, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impact. However, the background score by Devi Sri Prasad enhances the action and emotional moments effectively.
Positives and Negatives
Positives:
- Kamal Haasan’s extraordinary performances
- Unique and ambitious storyline
- Great cinematography and production value
- Well-executed action sequences
Negatives:
- Complex and sometimes confusing screenplay
- Overuse of CGI in some parts
- Music is not very memorable
Box Office and Public Response
Dasavatharam was a box office hit, collecting huge numbers despite the mixed reviews. While critics were divided on its complex storytelling, audiences loved Kamal Haasan’s dedication and acting brilliance.
Final Verdict
Dasavatharam (2008) is a unique and ambitious film that showcases Kamal Haasan’s incredible talent. While the complex story and heavy CGI might not appeal to everyone, it is still a must-watch for fans of action, science fiction, and Kamal Haasan’s acting prowess.
Rating: 4/5
