'Snehitharu' engaging mass entertainer

Film: "Snehitharu"; Cast: Vijaya Raghvendra, Pranitha, Tharun Chandra, Ravishankar Gowda, Srujan Lokesh, Shobharaj, Darshan and Nikitha; Producer: Soundarya Jagadish; Writer-Director: Ram Narayan; Music Director: Hari Krishna; Camera: M.R. Seenu; Rating: *** 1/2

The Kannada film industry seems to have discovered a new success recipe. Many of the recent releases were comedy with a right dose of commercial elements. One of them was "Rambo", produced by actor Sharan that was received well for its right packaging and song picturisation.

Earlier, "Kalaya Tasmai Namaha" was declared a hit.

"Snehitharu" continues the same trend and focuses on comedy elements with a good mix of fights and well-choreographed songs.

The story may not seem logical, nevertheless it entertains. Producer Soundarya had tasted success with his first film "Mast Majaa Maadi" and now he is offering "Snehitharu", an out and out comedy with superstar Darshan in a special role.

Darshan has two good fight sequences in the film, but it is the comic situations in narrative that outshine.

Lyricist-dialogue writer Ram Narayan has turned director with the film that revolves around Master Snehith's role. His writing skills are well known and may not surprise viewers, but his directorial skills are a revelation.

Ram Narayan has been able to get veteran comedians for bit roles. He also has good technical support with cameraman M.R. Seenu and composer Hari Krishna complementing and enhancing the film with their work.

Snehith is an orphan who has been adopted by a police officer Surya Prakash. Since Surya is busy with his job, he hands over the responsibility of Snehith to his parents and his friend Pranee. The film revolves around them and four other heroes.

Darshan features in a small role, but he will please his fans. His stylish mannerisms and fights are added attractions to the movie.

Vijaya Raghavendra, Ravishankar Gowda, Srujan Lokesh and Tharun have done well in their respective roles.

Praneetha gives her best. Snehith is a scene-stealer in many sequences.

The title song and "Bandhe Barthaale" are well-choreographed songs.

Camera work is pleasing.

Ram Narayan's punchy dialogues add flavour.

"Snehitharu" is a mass entertainer that will keep the audience fully engaged. It has an interesting script coupled with good performances and neat technical work.