The 2K Kids' Take on Ponniyin Selvan: A Love or Hate Story?

When the Ponniyin Selvan movie was released, the reaction across social media and among 2K kids was mixed. Some were ecstatic, while others were disappointed. This article delves into the perspectives of 2K kids and provides an insightful analysis of why the film divided public opinion.

Introduction: The Wait Was Worth It?

The anticipation for the Ponniyin Selvan movie was palpable among 2K kids, many of whom had read the novel during their teenage years. For me, it was even more personal. I devoured the book during my 11th standard holidays and was a huge fan of Vandhiya Thevan, Karthi, and the character dynamics. My friends and I were eagerly waiting for the movie to hit the big screen.

Enthusiasm Builds Up

Friends and I were so excited about the movie that we discussed it for an entire month after watching it. We were particularly fascinated by Vandhiya Thevan, Karthi. Being inspired by the movie, I decided to read the novel again during a public holiday. I was thoroughly engrossed and completed the book during my 12th standard holidays. Ponniyin Selvan was my first novel, and it was a defining read for me. It was so interesting that it made me want to read more historical novels.

Disappointment and Reactions

Despite the excitement, the movie was not a hit with everyone. Some of my friends were underwhelmed and disappointed. We felt that the film did not do justice to the novel. The adaptation was lackluster; it felt more like a straightforward translation from words to screen without any added soul or excitement.

Moreover, the decision to release the movie in two parts, without substantial justification, disappointed many. The movie was criticized for its mixed cinematography, cast choices, and character portrayals. For instance, the character of Poonghuzhal, who was one of the most intriguing and powerful women in the novel, was butchered in the movie. She was reduced to a minor, simpering character. The novel's diverse range of characters was also poorly portrayed in the film.

Art vs Entertainment

Some people argued that the film should have been made into a four or five-part series or a web series. However, others argue that the film was neither art nor entertainment. The movie makers seemed to lose the essence of the novel, which was not only about historical events but also had a rich and nuanced character development. The film missed the mark when it came to portray the characters as dynamic and complex as in the novel.

Conclusion: A Mixed Bag

In conclusion, the Ponniyin Selvan movie was a love or hate story among 2K kids. For those who read the novel and were excited about the adaptation, it was a mild disappointment. For those who did not have prior knowledge of the novel, it was a letdown. The film adaptation, despite its potential, ultimately failed to capture the magic of the original novel.