Kannada film Arjun should serve as a warning to popular star Darshan, who has become very repetitive in the last three years -- he has featured in films with the same story, same dances, same fights and same one-liners.
The only plus point in Arjun's favour is its well choreographed song and fight sequences. Even Darshan's fans may tire of his repetitive fights and songs, and find this film weak.
The story goes like this: Arjun is the son of a rich business tycoon, who seems to pass his time watching Cartoon Network on television. He earmarks Rs 150 crores for his son so as to enable him to retain his moral values as a police officer.
Arjun's policy is to warn the criminals and give a deadline to change their ways. If they do not follow his warning, Arjun shoots them, as though no authority in the world would question his deeds. Arjun takes the help of petty criminals to identity top criminals. How Arjun takes on these top criminals forms the rest of the story.
The story is bizarre at times. For instance, a criminal is shown walking in easily into a police officers' conference, and even making suggestions.
Director Sahuraj Shinde, who had earlier directed Darshan in Snehaanaa Preethinaa, has exposed his inability to make an enjoyable product. Thankfully, Harikrishna's music comes as a relief for the audience, especially the songs, Balle Balle and the title song.
Darshan does his usual act, but he is handicapped by the lack of a proper story. His last two films, Gaja and Indra, were remakes and had dependable scripts. While Gaja became a blockbuster, Indra flopped.
Meera Chopra does not fit in the role, and appears tired throughout. Sanjana, in a supporting role, is wasted. Veteran artists Anant Nag and Oorvashi have little to do. The villains Suman, Sharath Lohithashwa and Ajay shout out all their dialogue. Harikrishna is the real hero of the film.
The action and chasing sequences will enthrall the frontbenchers.
Rediff Rating: 
