Will 'Bharathchandran IPS' prove a successful sequel?

Kochi, Aug 24 (IANS) Cinema buffs are keenly waiting to see if "Bharathchandran IPS", a sequel to runaway hit "Commissioner", sets a trend towards more such films.

The recently released film is the first independent directorial venture by journalist-turned-director Renji Panikar. "Commissioner", one of the bumper hits of the 90s, was written by Panikar and directed by his friend Shaji Kailas.

"Commissioner" had made Suresh Gopi one among the trinity of superstars (with Mohanlal and Mammootty) that ruled Malayalam cinema for some time.

Gopi's character was that of a hotheaded cop who wouldn't mind fighting the system and bending the rules to achieve justice. This character died a slow death due to overuse by the filmmakers who believed in following the oft-trodden path. The actor went into a hibernation of nearly four years.

Hats off to Panikar for attempting a sequel because such films have often proved to be a foolhardy step even for experienced filmmakers.

It is to the credit of Panikar (who has made some very racy political thrillers) for making a sequel that is topical, racy and entertaining without depending very much on the original.

The character of Bharathchandran has to tackle new issues bothering the people, like the increasing political manipulation by communal forces, corruption in the higher echelons of power and dubious developmental policies of the government.

The story begins with Bharathchandran given the charge of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the sensational assassination of a community leader who was to appear before a commission of inquiry set up to probe reasons behind the communal violence that occurred in the coastal areas of Malabar.

Gopi's is a power-packed performance, marked by his trademark style of bombastic dialogue delivery.

One of the film's minus points is that every other character appears to be a poor caricature or a spoof. Even the other members of the SIT have hardly anything to do except watch the exploits of Bharathchandran in mute admiration.

The presence of VJ Shriya Reddy as a woman police officer is there just as a filler, but thankfully there is no romantic angle to her presence.

Another criticism the director may have to face is that he bares his political colours and freely indulges in minority bashing. But that is for the political analysts to discuss, for the film buff the movie will ensure he gets his ticket money's worth.

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Bharath Chadran IPS