Singapore Saloon Movie Review
In the world of Tamil cinema, every now and then, a movie comes along that captures the essence of an underdog story. “Singapore Saloon,” directed by Gokul and starring RJ Balaji, is one such film.
Released on January 25, this movie takes us on a journey through the life of Kathir, a young man with big dreams of becoming a renowned hairstylist. But does this underdog story hit all the right notes, or does it fall short? Let’s dive into the review and find out.
Plot Overview
“Singapore Saloon” begins with a stunning confession from Kathir (RJ Balaji) that he plans to end his life. As he narrates his story, we learn about his passion for hairstyling and his ambition to open his own salon.
Growing up in a small town, Kathir spends a lot of time at Chacha’s barbershop called Singapore Saloon, where he hones his skills and dreams of a brighter future.
However, Kathir faces numerous struggles, both financial and personal, on his journey to make his dream a reality. With the support of his wife, played by Meenakshi Chaudhary, and the help of his father and father-in-law, Kathir manages to open his own salon. But just when things seem to be going well, a major disaster strikes, threatening to shatter his dreams.
Director’s Vision
Director Gokul sets out to tell an underdog story that showcases the determination and resilience of a young man chasing his dreams. The first half of the film is filled with lighter moments, allowing us to witness Kathir’s growth from a schoolboy with a crush to a passionate hairstylist.
The introduction of Sathyaraj’s character adds a touch of fun to the narrative. However, the second half takes a more sentimental and dramatic turn.
The Good and the Not-So-Good
The writing in “Singapore Saloon” is a mix of highs and lows. While there are moments that evoke empathy and laughter, the overall theme of fulfilling one’s dreams feels cliched and fails to make a lasting impact.
The film touches upon various social themes such as religion and economic inequality, but these elements often feel forced and disconnected from the main narrative.
RJ Balaji delivers a convincing performance as the hairstylist, but his character could have been better developed. We don’t get to see enough of his skills as a hairstylist, which leaves a gap in his character arc.
On the other hand, Sathyaraj shines in his scenes, delivering his lines with impeccable timing and expressions that make you laugh.
The music and songs by Vivek-Mervin are average and don’t leave a lasting impression. However, the cameos by Arvind Swami and Lokesh Kanagaraj add some excitement to the proceedings. Overall, “Singapore Saloon” has its moments but falls short of being a truly memorable film.
FAQs
1. Is “Singapore Saloon” worth watching?
While “Singapore Saloon” has its moments, it may not be a must-watch film. If you enjoy underdog stories and appreciate RJ Balaji’s performances, you might find it entertaining. However, if you’re looking for a film that leaves a lasting impact, this may not be the best choice.
2. Are there any standout performances in the movie?
RJ Balaji delivers a good performance as the lead character, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Sathyaraj, known for his impeccable comic timing, stands out in his scenes and brings a touch of humor to the film.
3. Does the movie explore any social themes?
Yes, “Singapore Saloon” touches upon various social themes such as religion and economic inequality. However, the execution of these themes feels forced and doesn’t seamlessly integrate with the main narrative.