Vimaanam: Just about watchable 

Prithiviraj Sukumaran's much-anticipated film has a decent take-off but whether it lands safely is open to debate
Vimaanam: Just about watchable 

The film follows the life of a hearing-impaired man, Venkidi (Prithviraj), who dreams of flying an aircraft and his deep love for Janaki (Durga Krishna).

Director:  Pradeep M Nair
Cast: Prithviraj,
Durga Krishna, Anarkali Marikar, Alencier, Sudheer Karamana​

Vimaanam, from its beginning, makes it a point to tell us that it is all about Venkidi's dream. It works, and we do feel connected to Venkidi's dream, thanks to the small-yet-strong performance by child artist Eric Anil. Then on, it oscillates between flashback and the present where Prithviraj is seen as a 50-year-old and 20-year-old. While Venkidi's efforts to succeed in his mission and his romantic life is portrayed in the first half, the latter part is on whether he makes it or not.

As much as Vimaanam is about flying, it is about Venkidi's desire and love for Janakai too. Here, the romantic track is something that propels his dream. Venkidi wants Janaki to be a part of his journey and his dreams won't be fulfilled until he flies along with her.

But, that's when Vimaanam loses its stream.Though the film tries to depict their love story as a strong and eternal one, the chemistry is somehow lacking. Newbie Durga Krishna manages to pull off Janaki, but fails to shine in a few emotional scenes, which look artificial. While Prithviraj does his part excellently, together they fail to create the magic.

Then, there are quite a few scenes that don't match the overall mood of the film, like in when Venkidi rushes to the airport in his aircraft to stop Janaki from taking a flight. Another sequence where Venkidi showers rose petals onto Janaki who watches Venkidi flying, too, looks corny.

However, the most engaging part of Vimaanam is the bond Venkidi shares with his mentor Paappan (Alancier). Sudheer Karamana, who plays his uncle too is an integral part of the narrative.

The remaining cast, including Lena, Praveena, Major Ravi were good in their roles. Special mention to Anarkali Marickar who delivered a really mature performance.

Vimaanam is a genuine effort by Pradeep but despite having a novel theme, it fails to bring in a fresh feel. A slow narrative, clichéd romantic scenes, and predictable situations stop Vimaanam from reaching heights. The picturesque locations, captured by the talented Shehnad Jalal, are a visual treat to watch, but Gopi Sundar's music and background score sound mediocre.

Vimaanam is a watchable experience with all its humour and emotions. But even after Venkidi achieves his dreams, we feel there is something more left to be told. It inspires us, but not as much as we want it to.

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