Mussanje Maathu, the Kannada film directed by debutant Mahesh is an enjoyable film with a good blend of emotions, good performances and meaningful songs.
Though the radio jockey's character and his work remind you of Lage Raho Munnabhai, the comparison ends there. The story is so emotional that it can touch even the heart of the most hard-hearted viewer.
Though Mussanje Maathu has a thin story line, many incidents in the film relating to the radio jockey's programme are narrated in such a touching manner that it more than makes up it.
Mahesh shows maturity as a first time director in handling a serious theme. However, he has failed to show the same level of intelligence and maturity in handling the comedy sequences.
The story revolves around a radio jockey, Pradeep who hosts an evening programme. He provides relief to the emotionally affected people through his positive interaction with them. One such caller who benefits from his advice is Tanu, who is trying to come to terms with losing her mother and her father's abandonment. Predictably, Tanu falls in love with Pradeep.
Pradeep, on his part does not reveal anything. After Tanu is re-united with her reformed father with the efforts of Pradeep, her father arranges her marriage with someone else. What happens next is narrated in an excellent manner. The gripping climax is certainly the highlight of the film.
Performance-wise, Sudeep is once again outstanding. The way he underplays the role is a treat to watch. He looks stylish and youthful too.
Ramya keeps up with Sudeep in many sequences. But it is Anu Prabhakar who takes the cake. Veteran actor Ramesh Bhat is excellent as the Ramya's drunkard father.
All in all, the director has been able to extract competent performance from all the artists.
Technically, however the film does not set high standards though it is effective. Sundaranath Suvarna is competent in wielding the camera. Sridhar's music is extraordinary and songs like Eno Onthara Thara, Enaagali Mundhe Saagali and Kaddalu Manasanna rock.
Mahesh should be complimented for making a clean and likeable film at a time when the Kannada film industry is full of gore and gangsters.
Rediff Rating: 
