Mankatha (2011) User Reviews (60)

Mankatha - Hitting the bull's eye

[kannan_fifa · 8/10 · 3 September 2011]

Mankatha – 8/10 Ajith's 50th movie certainly has exceeded the hugely speculated expectations it garnered. Like its title, it travels in a racy pace with full of twists and turns presented in a thoroughly entertaining way. Story wise, Mankatha is can be said as the best of all Venkat Prabhu's film. It is thoroughly entertaining with Ajith oozing with energy in every scene with power packed one liners. The films has many scenes at the first half which may seem irrelevant but gets all paid back with the climax explaining everything.

For the other casts, Premji and Vaibhav impresses and are at their best. Action King Arjun proves his proves his dynamic experience even in just few scene he have done. All the other female casts just does fine given that their roles are merely blink-and-miss ones.

Technicality wise, Sakthi Saravanan's cinematography is apt for the commercial action film and Yuvan's music plays as an important factor for the scenes especially the epic BGMs.

Venkat Prabhu has shown maturity in is directing with Mankatha and broke his all the stereotypical heroic roles of Tamil cinema by giving Ajith an Negative role. Kudos to the ultimate star for accepting it bravely putting his name in risk at his 50th film. All said, Mankataha proves that a film need to be artistic to be favoured by critics, but a entertaining film with intelligent twist can garner all the interest from all side.

Verdict : Ajith's show all the way

Ajith's 50th game of money, money, money and money!!!!

[pradeesh84 · 7/10 · 4 September 2011]

Mankatha is the right film for Ajith to prove his everlasting flawless acting skill through which he has proved that he is one of the most bankable star in Indian cinema. Wow, what a performance from Ajith needless to say this is surely one of the top performances in recent times by any actor and for Ajith its his best. No star would ever dare to do such a pure baddie role with no righteousness and conscience. He does all for money, money and for money alone. Special applauds for this daring effort and sheer experimentation. Now its time for kollywood stars to pay attention to the script and give importance to the character rather than their image factor. Well its all said enough about the movie, so i am not writing any more review. This movie is worth watching more than once. Its an enjoyable ride with twists and turns. Cheers mankatha team for giving us a very good visual treat..

Bore.

[jonny78 · 7/10 · 25 July 2022]

I watched it as I heard it was the only piece of good cinema in Ajith's career, and found it heavily boring. The setup is meant to be comedy, offers nothing of value, is cringe, and leaves you uninterested. But fast forwarding on, the usual hallmark offerings of Indian cinema are clearly visible: cars jumping around, nonsensical fight scenes.

I might give this another try, but probably won't.

Also, the BGM, though iconic, isn't the best in Tamil cinema by far. 'Rain Fight' in Kaala surpasses it easily.

Its a game that hero has played well..

[spiceboy-sabar · 10/10 · 2 September 2011]

To start with, the movie had very high expectations and certainly turned out to a massive treat for all( Thala )fans.I went to movie with a mindset of a neutral fan.I found the movie refreshing and certainly entertaining even though the game is not a convincing performance from the Director.he left some loopholes in the first half and some very logic less scenes ( money taken from the truck scene)that could have been done better.The screenplay should have been better with some of comedy scenes cut short and a handful number of heroines are wasted expect Lakshmi and few glimpses of Trisha.But yet you would come out of the film with all happiness and having watched a memorable performance and give it a rating of 9 or 10.The credits should go to Stylish,showstopper and Classy Ajith.He carried the film with his own hands as a baddie and great performance.he has proved why the fans call him Thala.Arjun also forms a major plus.he looks energetic,proves he is still the Action king.Jeyaprakash is at his best presence and had done a good job.Vaibhav had a good character in this multi Starr film and he has come out with flying colors.Mahat and ash win are new comers and they stay that way.There is not much to tell about them.Premji was disappointing expect the scene where he copied Enthiran dialog.

story cut short There is not much reason to writing a synopsis since the gist of it can be seen in the trailer but just to recap. Sumanth Vaibhav, Mahat Mahat Raghavendra, Prem Prem G Amaren and Ganesh Ashwin Kakumanu plan to heist cricket betting money worth 500 core in transit when Vinayak Mahadevan Ajith, a suspended police officer comes into the picture. Intelligent and with his own agenda, there is more to Vinayak than these boys know. However, where there is a crime to be committed, there has to be a hero to stop it. Enter Prithviraj Arjun, ACP assigned with a special task force to bring down not only the robbery but the whole illegal betting system. Game set and all is falling to plan yet no one will be prepared for the game thats about to begin as the rules have changed without them knowing. The double crosser is about to be double crossed. Who remains and who comes on top forms the crux.

Arjun also forms a major plus.he looks energetic,proves he is still the Action king and the scenes between the two of them are my favorites.

OK so stepping back to technicalities, we head to the music department first. Yet again, another round of banging music by Yuvan Shankar Raja and the charts are there to prove it. At the same time, the songs that stand out are Vilaiyaadu Mankatha, Ithu Namma Ballelaka and Nee Naan. However, it cant be said that this is Yuvan's best work. But the re recording rocked and the music stays in your ears.Cinematography by Sakthi Saravanan is passable and editing by Praveen K. L. & N. B. Srikanth could have been a little crisper. But the writing is to blame for any lack of performance here and that is in the hands of director Venkat Prabhu. While this kind of robbery flick from a negative character's point of view hasn't been seen before in Tamil and Venkat should be applauded for his attempt, there is no denying it could have been better.

If the scenes dragged out to one point, the songs pitched in on the speed breakers too. Vaada Bin Laada could have had better placing, forgetting that the choreography was questionable. Yet it doesn't all head down hill in the second half. Whatever speed was held back through the songs, is picked up with the climax. By the time the film finishes, the out takes begin and you are left in stitches from laughter with the whole team and their fun

The final verdict is the movie is a treat for his fans as he has proved a thing or two to Tamil cinema goers with his awesome stylish performance and it is a commercial entertainer that everyone can enjoy and leave it at theaters.Though not the same league as Aranya Kaunda movie. Mangatha has tried a different evil against evil story line in Tamil cinema and it should be lauded.

"A Brilliant Mankatha Game"

[a_smart_laser · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

Ajith, the 'King of Box Office Openings' has once again proved that he is THALA. Mankatha is an Ajith movie all the way. Venkat Prabhu has been a worthy director to Ajith and given the actor a strong and interesting movie. It is sure to make Ajith fans very happy to see their star in a different role.

Arjun has excelled in his role and proves that he is truly the Action King. Yuvan Shankar Raja's music, especially the background score adds to the thrill of the movie.

Ajith's 50th film didn't happen at an ease for the actor took a very long time and scrutinizing efforts to choose the best one. Initially, he was supposed to work with Gautham Vasudev Menon and it failed due to some difference of opinions. The actor later had discussions with more filmmakers including directors Vijay, Vishnuvardhan and many more. In fact, 'Billa-2' was supposed to be his 50th film.

But finally, 'Mankatha' as the title suggests happened on the game of probability as Venkat Prabhu didn't have Ajith in mind while penning the script. Ajith had personally requested Venkat Prabhu to get ready with a script that features him in a negative role. Of course, everything was finalized during 11th hour.

'Mankatha' produced by Dayanidhi Azhagiri and Vivek Rathinavel under the banner name of Cloud Nine Movies had some problems pertaining to the release of this film. But then, Sun Pictures got into the picture uniting both Cloud Nine Movies and Sun Pictures together.

Today, the film opens bigger with more prints and screens across the globe. To mention about Venkat Prabhu's directorial style in this film, he has stepped far away from his previous movies. Unlike 'Chennai 600028', 'Saroja' and 'Goa', this film has a serious theme running in the backdrops laced with thriller and action.

The film is about 4 young criminals – Vaibhav Reddy, Ganesh, Mahat and Premji Amaran looking out to swindle the big sum of Rs.500Crores for IPL betting. These rookies are into a big plan of looting the currencies, but they become directionless with the entry of Vinayak (Ajith), a police officer suspended for 6 months in service. Four become Five and they all go ahead with new plans, but everything doesn't go as planned as the characters start playing 'Mankatha' among them. Meanwhile, there is a special CBI officer Prithviraj (Arjun) appointed for trapping the bookies and soon are on the hunt of these off the field players trying to loot the money.

Venkat Prabhu usually loves making multi-starrer movies, which is noticeable from his first film and even this one as we know earlier boasts of bigger star-casts. Ajith is outstanding with his performance and he makes sure of entertaining his fans to the core. He has shown keen interest over the dance, action, sense of humour, etc.

Trisha doesn't get more screen space to share with Ajith. But her portions with Ajith are good and her looks are enchanting. Lakshmi Rai appears for couple of songs and scenes. Action King Arjun is awesome as actor Vijay said he would have easily accepted this role, if Venkat Prabhu had approached him first. Vaibhav and Aravind Akash are good with their own style while Premji Amaran tries evoking laughter in his own style. Anjali looks beautiful and nothing else to say about her performance as her role is minimal.

Yuvan Shankar Raja scores well with songs and background score. The songs are pictured very well and the scenes are top-notching with Sakthi Saravanan's cinematography. Editing by Praveen is fantastic.

On the whole, 'Mankatha' has some slow moments during first half, but as the story proceeds during second half, it has gripping moments with an unexpected climax.

With Sun Pictures vigorously promoting the film and no big contenders ahead, the film will go successfully.

Verdict: A Brilliant Mankatha Game

Mankatha - 500 Crore likes... Give me more...

[gpmforever · 10/10 · 2 September 2011]

Hi Guys, This is Ajith Kumar's 50th and released with high expectation.

First of this movie is a Mass and Class movie. So Don't Compare this movie with award winning movies.

First half is average & its not creating any impact to the audience but definitely its not the worst part. Lot of character introduction in First half. Bu some of the scenes in First half sparkles. After 10 minutes interval break, roller coaster ride will start. Jet speed. Ajth breaks the usual rule of tamil cinema heroes.

He is the real baddie in this movie. Ajith age in this film is 40. So don't expect fast movement dance, youth look. Second Half is racy and some twists. No hero will accept this kind of role. Some ajith dialogues are very crude.

Yuvan Sankar Raja BGM reminds some Hollywood movies in some part.. But its awesome.

Second half Screen play is awesome. thanks Venkat Prabhu(Director)

Overall, Watching this film is definitely worth 4 you money.

My final punch: Very big treat for ajith fans. Good time pass movie for others.

Note: Hey guys don't miss the making of mankatha after the end card.

Springing surprises- Mankatha

[jayaraman21 · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

The headline says it all. In 'Mankatha', Ajith pulls it off with his impeccable style and excellent performance, which is aptly supported by a racy script and brilliant execution by director Venkat Prabhu and his team.

If cricket was the USP of 'Chennai 28′, the director's first film, 'Mankatha' is also based on the sport but with a difference. It is all about betting, money and the men behind it.

Ajith has appropriately chosen to do 'Mankatha' as his 50th film. It is a movie that has everything his fans would want. He shakes his legs vigorously, evokes laughter, does pulsating stunt sequences and utters catchy one-liners (with some of them going mute).

The first-half belongs to Venkat Prabhu where he shows sparks of 'Saroja' and 'Goa', while the latter part is totally dominated by Ajith. As a merciless baddie behind money, Ajith oozes venom in his eyes. His body language and dialogue delivery compliments it very much. Though the movie has over a dozen characters, it's Ajith all the way. With his remarkable screen presence, he is at his coolest best.

Coming to the story, 'Mankatha' revolves around a suspended cop Vinayak Mahadevan (Ajith) in Maharashtra police. He leads a happy life with his lover Sanjana (Trisha), daughter of an influential local goon Arumuga Chettiyar (Jayaprakash).

Vinayak is a man who dares to do anything for money. But a fun-loving person, he lives his life in his own way.

A suicide by a police officer investigating the betting mafia involved in Indian Premier League (IPL) hogs headlines. Assistant Commissioner of Police Prithvi (Arjun) takes charge to end betting scandal in the sport.

Meanwhile, Arumuga Chettiyar comes to know that a sum of Rs 500 crore betting money for the finals of the IPL is coming to Mumbai. He uses his nexus with underworld in Mumbai and tries to route it through his recreation centre.

Sumanth (Vaibhav) is Arumuga Chettiyar's protégé. He hatches a conspiracy to take away the money in the company of a police officer Ganesh (Ashwin). They are joined by Mahanth (Mahanth), who runs a bar in Mumbai and Prem (Premgi Amaran), a fun-loving IIT pass out.

Coming to know of their plans, Vinayak steps in. He promises to help the team members and divide the booty between them. They even succeed in taking away the money and decide to wait for an appropriate time to share the fortune.

In the meantime, a shocked Arumuga Chettiyar begins his hunt for the treasure and every move of him is closely followed by Prithvi. All hell breaks loose when Mahanth and Prem escape with the cash and Vinayak suspects Sumanth.

Turn of events lead to Sumanth being captured by police and Prithvi forces him to turn an approver. Guns roar and losses occur on either side.

Now Vinayak takes the centre-stage and with his wicked plans goes hammer and tongs to take away the booty. A surprise awaits him in the form of Prem and Sona (Lakshmi Rai). When Vinayak locates the treasure, Prithvi breathes under his neck. It is now battle of fists between them. Who emerged the winner is narrated with an interesting twist in the climax.

All cheers to Ajith. The man after a long gap gets a role where he can perform with variety. He is at his best and his salt and pepper look is catchy and attractive.

As a suave cop, a dreaded don or a adorable lover, he leaves his charm on screen. His uttering of one-liners to Arjun evokes applause. His imitating Premgi in few scenes brings the roof down in laughter.

Arjun lives up to his Action King tag. He adds variety on screen and is cool and consummate as a police officer.

Trisha appears in a few scenes besides a song and disappears. Andrea as Arjun's wife, Lakahmi Rai as call girl and Anjali in the role of Vaibhav's wife play blink-and-miss roles. Jayaprakash gets to play a decent part in the film. At places he reminds one of Kamal Haasan's role in 'Nayakan'. Vaibhav gets a meaty character and he utilises the opportunity.

Both Ganesh and Mahanth are tailor-made for the roles, while Premgi is at his best in the film. He takes off from where he left in 'Goa'. At ease in coming out with comical one-liners, his admiration for Ajith is visible on screen.

Watch out for good cinematography in such an action-packed film. Sakthi Saravanan has given a fresh colour to it. It's Yuvan Shankar Raja's mass tunes that elevates the mood. And he has shown difference in background score too (especially in the godown-fight scene in the second half)..

Give due credit to Venkat Prabhu, the director who seems to have given a film that sits well on Ajith. He understood Ajith's strength and played it well. Who said he can only direct laughathons? With 'Mankatha', he has graduated to go higher places.

On the whole, it's job well done by Venkat Prabhu, producer Dhayanidhi Alagiri and other members of the team. If at all there is a minus, it is the lengthy first half.

I FELT LIKE WATCHING SACHIN TENDULKAR GONE OUT OF 99 WHEN ARJUN SHOOT AJITH. BUT WHILE COMING OUT OF THEATRE I FELT THALA MADE A RECORD SCORE OF 200 UNBEATEN.

The Charismatic man of India is back with a bang

[shootyourmails · 5 September 2011]

Right from the first frame till the final frame, Ajith has lived the role of a Villain perfectly. (Who would have thought this being his 50th movie !). His evil filled laughter, his styles, his dialogue delivery and more importantly his dance moves were way too good. Thala has proved that he is indeed the "King Maker" as he himself says that in the movie. Rest of the cast just form the cast except Arjun who has portrayed a cop role in a stylish manner. Songs by Yuvan are usual to his standards. Direction by Venkat is good for the major portions of the later half of the movie. First half is slightly slower but gathers momentum as the movie proceeds. Despite few flaws here and there, we forget them at the end thanks to a great climax and a great performance by Ajith all the way. Surely a movie worth watching twice or even more.

good movie

[princekhan03 · 6/10 · 5 September 2011]

the movie was stylish. awesome acting by "Thala"Ajith.

but the first half was bit slow wit unwanted song "Vaada Binlada".

but the second half increased the pace of the movie with exciting twists in story

.if u r a Ajith fan the movie will be great. for a neutral it is a good movie.

music is good.

Ajith may get the best actor in negative role.

Lakshmi Rai is only heroin in that movie who has a proper role.

exciting stunts both with bike and car.

special effects were the best seen in a Tamil film.

rocking film

[u_like_me_88 · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

awesome film........film s full of great action and twists..... good comedy sequences... overall a superb film after a long time..The film has everything that Ajith fans would want and some more

Every actor would love to do an anti-hero role at least once in their career. From Rajinikanth to Silambarasan, there are no exceptions to this craving. Mankatha is Ajith's 50th film and the actor unleashed his charm doing a baddie in Vaali repeats the act. Director Venkat Prabhu, known for doing light-hearted films, takes up an action-packed thriller in the company of the mass hero. If cricket was the basic crux of Venkat Prabhu's Chennai 28 (his debut film as a director), Mankatha is also based on the willow game, albeit with a difference. The spotlight here is not on the field but on betting, money and the men behind it.

The actor who failed to cheer his fans in his previous flick Aasal, has managed to satisfy the appetite of his fans in Mankatha. Ajith slips into the role of the baddie whom we love to hate with élan, hogging the limelight with his charismatic screen presence. While the first half is more an extension of the director's earlier films like Chennai 28 and Saroja, the later half is dead serious, action-packed and racy. Vinayak Mahadevan (Ajith) is a suspended cop in Maharashtra police. He falls in love with Sanjana (Trisha), daughter of an influential local goon Arumuga Chettiyar (Jayaprakash). Vinayak is a man behind money. He has least respect for values in life, wants to become the richest. A suicide by a police officer investigating the betting mafia involved in Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket hogs headlines. Assistant Commissioner of Police Prithvi (Arjun) takes charge to free the sport from betting. Meanwhile, Arumuga Chettiyar, who comes to know that Rs. 500 crore betting money for the finals of the IPL is coming to Mumbai, uses his underworld links to route it through his recreation centre.

Sumanth (Vaibhav) is Arumuga Chettiyar's protégé. He hatches a conspiracy to take away the money in the company of his friends – a police officer Ganesh (Ashwin), Mahanth (Mahanth), who runs a bar, and Prem (Premgi Amaran), an IIT graduate. When he comes to know of their plans, Vinayak steps in. He promises to help the team members and divide the wealth between them. They even succeed in taking away the money and decide to wait for an appropriate time to share the fortune. In the meantime, a shocked Arumuga Chettiyar begins his hunt for the treasure though every move of him is being closely followed by Prithvi. The attention then shifts to Vinayak and the battlelines are redrawn – it is nowVinayak vs Prithvi.

After a long gap, Ajith sheds the stereotype tag. Arjun plays the Action King role to perfection. Trisha, Andrea, Anjali and Lakshmi Rai play minuscule roles. Vaibhav and Jayaprakash leave their mark on screen. Yuvan Shankar Raja's music is passable with a couple of racy tunes. Sakthi Saravanan's cinematography is a major strength. Venkat Prabhu seems to have played to Ajith's strength in Mankatha. The actor's mass appeal has given the director the liberty to add more of action and punch lines. On the flip side, the first half is too lengthy and long sequences mar the flow. All said, Ajith fans will love this film.

One man show...!

[sribornagain-394-460163 · 6/10 · 13 June 2012]

There are only few men like Rajnikanth , Vijay or Ajithkumar who can carry a movie with an ordinary script on their shoulder . "Mankatha" is one such where the versatile actor in Ajithkumar tries his level best to keep the boat from sinking for the "captain of the ship" Venkat Prabhu flounders. USP of the movie is Ajithkumar & he lives up to the hype & expectations. In a role with loads of greyness in it , Ajithkumar has had a field day. All our congratulations to him for choosing such a role which not many of his peers would readily might have accepted.

He is suave & stylish, at the same time menacing leaving one wanting for more. His footwork both in action sequences as well as the dance sequences has improved considerably. Couple instances he also tries his proficiency at comedy & comes out unscathed .All said & done, if only the script was a bit tighter & engrossing , the end result might have been a real treat.

Venkat Prabhu seems to be losing out his magic with every movie. His screenplay meanders aimlessly in the first half, with songs placed haphazardly adding up to the annoyance. The pace is shockingly slow considering the subject taken. One gets restless at many places. While one expects the pace to get picked up & some riveting moments to emerge , movie further meanders with ridiculous song featuring Premji Amaran , Laxmi rai & Makath . Where is that engrossing screenplay of "Saroja" or innocent exuberance of "Chennai 600028" gone Mr Venkat Prabhu ?!

The movie packs a punch right at the end just before the end credits when the revelation happens but by that time most of the harm has already been done. It is like watching a 50 over cricket match where the match meanders aimlessly but all of a sudden in the last 5 overs the match becomes interesting with fall of couple of wickets & the team needing to score more than a run a ball. There are flashes of brilliance here& there like that pre interval scene or that sequence of robbery (though it might have been heavily inspired from "Italian Job" ) or that in the interrogation room when Arjun is caught between the lives of his wife & the man in his custody & Ajithkumar interaction with Arjun in the same sequence.

Arjun's is an extended guest role but he breaths fire whenever he is on screen. One can't but marvel at the man who looks as energetic & agile as he was 20 years back. Premji Amaran fails to tickle us like as he did in his earlier movies while others in the lead cast like Vibhav , Mahat & Ashwin have done a decent job. Trisha comes in a brief role, is there in couple of songs as does Laxmi Rai who at least has some chance to showcase her prowess. Andrea's is "blink and you miss" kinda role as does is Anjali's.

Technically movie is good but lighting is couple of sequences is bad. Sakthi Sarvanan should have looked into it.

In Yuvan Shankar Raja's music the songs are good to hear but when it comes in inopportune moments in the movie one gets tired of the same. Background music by Yuvan Shankar Raja , Karthik Raja & Premji Amaran combo is good in parts and below average in certain others especially in the first half.

On the whole , "Mankatha" is entertaining in parts , ends up with a bang with adrenaline rush & has power packed performance from Ajithkumar in his 50th movie.

Bottomline : One man show...!

Strictly No Rules

[surendar-rk · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

The film is complete entertainer.Its all Because of " Thala Ajith " with his role in the movie who plays as VINAYAK MAHADEV.This Movie is about five bad guys who tries to grab the gambling Money during the cricket IPL final in the backdrop of Mumbai.In those five guys the one who is really a Big Baddie the Vinayak.The game starts when the special Cop Prithiv from Tamil Nadu arrives.The first half is bit slow when compared to second half.Second Half of the movie is really racy and going in jet moves.Ajith proved that he is really a versatile actor.Yuvan's Songs and BGM are nice.Cinematography is Excellent especially 'Vaada Bin lad' song. Over all its a perfect movie to enjoy for all kind of movie lovers.

Mankatha - The Game

[jeethjohnp · 6/10 · 4 September 2011]

I just cannot put down the thought that Venkat Prabhu's climb to this position is somewhat similar to the twists and turns that he has orchestrated in 'Mankatha'. Starting his directorial career with an 'out-of-nowhere Chennai 600028' and later on flirting with various other genres but putting on his trademark stamp to each film, he has finally broken into the A-grade list with this Ajith-starrer and he has done it in style. Even with this film, money takes the centre stage. Then we have the good guys gone bad. From the word go, this one goes on a ride that is typical Venkat Prabhu. Ajith plays a cop gone crazy for money who is on suspension. Then there is this bunch of youngsters who are all for easy cash. And to fill in the gaps there is money coming in right to them.

The first half of the movie moves at a languish pace setting the pawns for an exciting latter half. While the trailer projected an adrenaline pumping heist sequence a la mode Fast Five, the actual heist lasts about 10 minutes and gets over when you think that it has just started. But up to that point, Venkat Prabhu had a lot of time and he uses it up like he always does bringing in his creative side to each and every shot. It is really nice to see someone put a start to a heist sequence in the tamil films.

The second half is more like a guessing game, fast paced and the part where Ajith ups his form. Any person who is well versed with Venkat Prabhu's style will know how the ending will go. All said and done, the movie is an entertainer all right. But there are a lot of flaws. The need for 3 mainstream actresses is unwarranted for. The roles done by them could have been essayed by anybody. And Venkat Prabhu is a guy who excels in situations rather than characters but once Ajith's character starts showing frustration and this extra-ordinary thirst for money in the second half, the cards start tumbling down. How did this character evolve into this monster all of a sudden? And were any of the deaths meant to be taken seriously. Yes it is a known fact, that a death in a Venkat Prabhu comes wrapped with a tinge of comedy. But this, what was the intention?

The pros would be Ajith's acting even though his character was not quite up to the level of his acting. Next would be the decent manner in which the action scenes were handled (it means nothing went overboard). And of course, Premgi. Without him this would have been a dry event.

Songs by Yuvan was decent but unwanted at many places. Editing was fit. All in all, a decent entertainer but not quite there as promised.

Mankatha- Failed to gamble

[semaheshkumar · 1/10 · 29 October 2011]

The story revolves around gangsters who wants to steal the bet money of a cricket tournament, the organisers will plan to store the money in a theatre at mumbai. But the gangsters plan to rob the money with the help of a guy who is working in that theatre.

One of the hero who is a suspended police men joins the gang and plan to steal the money saying that we need to rob the money on the way itself.

I wonder how we change containers using cranes at a bypass road in a check post... Its very childish attempt from the director and unnecessary bike stunts and car stunts spoils the pace of the movie.

the second half was very dragging and atlast we will come to know that the suspended police men along with another police officer stealed the money by killing all the others in the gang....

The second half makes the audience to lose their patience.

As a whole Mankatha failed to gamble the hearts of people and its yet another flop for actor ajith

Strictly No Rules

[mifrasmm · 10/10 · 2 September 2011]

Mankatha is an Ajith movie all the way. It is a complete action thriller that will narrate the match fixing sagas in international cricket matches.

First time in Tamil cinema history Hero playing totally negative role. Only we show on Hollywood movies.

Mankatha is a racy movie with many twists that keeps everyone glued to the screen till the end of the film. At the end of the movie the bloopers shown of the all the stars are quite a laugh riot.

Undoubtedly Mankatha music composed by the popular Tamil music director Yuvan Shankar Raja is rocking Ajith fans already.

Superb,hard gripping and an awesome game by Venkat Prabhu and Ajith

[darshan-mob94 · 3 September 2011]

After an average outing with Ajith in Aasal and Aegan,Ajith has made a big comeback with his 50th Golden Jublee,MANKATHA.Performances from all stars were awesome,but the main show stoppers were Ajith and Arjun.The first half of the film seemed like its screenplay was not coordinated well.However,the second half neatly explained the first half without leaving any flaws in the movie.This film plot is one of the best plots derived in Tamil cinema.'Nanbane' song was not needed,but it didn't disrupt the screenplay at all.MANKATHA is seriously Ajith's best.Go for it,enjoy the game and never miss it in the big screens.

Rating:8.8/10

Mankatha-The King!!!!!

[ratheesh-sahayaraj · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

MANKATHA-as the name suggests depicts the IPL gambling in India......

Thala 'Ajith' has done a neat job portraying his role as "Vinayak Mahadev"-The greedy and wicked man,whether in cheating others and exploiting them for his sake of attaining only three things-MONEY,MONEY,MONEY............

In the first half he does a bit on his comic side whereas on the 2nd half he shows his dark shades on how really bad Vinayak can be in his Wicked and Cunning tactics...........

The usage of Vulgar words show his peculiar character.....particularly when he kills Lakshmi Rai and says"The****a Mu**a"...........

Really this 50th film is far more better in performance and content than Ajith's Billa...........

Arjun as Prithvi plays an amazing role of a Cop next to Ajith.........

His encounter with Ajith and the subsequent action sequences are the highlight of the film.........

Vaibhav,Premji fit in small roles in the film.

Trisha is an unnecessary addition in the Film.Lakshmirai has taken some chance to perform in addition to the oomph factor.

Anjali,Andrea,Aravind Akash,Jeyaprakash have little scope.Newcomers Mahat and Ashwin have done their jobs well.........

Songs by Yuvan are Chartbusters especially 'Vilayadu Mankatha','Machi Open the Bottle' and 'Nanbanae'.'Vaada Bin Laada' is a treat to the eyes but slows down the pace of the Film.

Kudos to Venkat Prabhu for making a film concentrating particularly on the negative characters.

First half of Film is comic but slows down at few places and the second half is fast and energetic in Contrast.The last 20 minutes give a twist and make you sit on the edge of your Seat!!!!! On the whole........ Mankatha breaks the Clichés of Tamil Cinema and Thala 50 is sure to score a century or Double Century......

All the Best for Thala in his Future!!!!!

Mankatha - 'Attagasam' of a 'Villain'

[askarme-950-928124 · 10/10 · 7 September 2011]

The headline says it all. In 'Mankatha', Ajith pulls it off with his impeccable style and excellent performance, which is aptly supported by a racy script and brilliant execution by director Venkat Prabhu and his team.

If cricket was the USP of 'Chennai 28', the director's first film, 'Mankatha' is also based on the sport but with a difference. It is all about betting, money and the men behind it.

Ajith has appropriately chosen to do 'Mankatha' as his 50th film. It is a movie that has everything his fans would want. He shakes his legs vigorously, evokes laughter, does pulsating stunt sequences and utters catchy one-liners (with some of them going mute).

The first-half belongs to Venkat Prabhu where he shows sparks of 'Saroja' and 'Goa', while the latter part is totally dominated by Ajith. As a merciless baddie behind money, Ajith oozes venom in his eyes. His body language and dialogue delivery compliments it very much. Though the movie has over a dozen characters, it's Ajith all the way. With his remarkable screen presence, he is at his coolest best.

Coming to the story, 'Mankatha' revolves around a suspended cop Vinayak Mahadevan (Ajith) in Maharashtra police. He leads a happy life with his lover Sanjana (Trisha), daughter of an influential local goon Arumuga Chettiyar (Jayaprakash).

Vinayak is a man who dares to do anything for money. But a fun-loving person, he lives his life in his own way.

A suicide by a police officer investigating the betting mafia involved in Indian Premier League (IPL) hogs headlines. Assistant Commissioner of Police Prithvi (Arjun) takes charge to end betting scandal in the sport.

Meanwhile, Arumuga Chettiyar comes to know that a sum of Rs 500 crore betting money for the finals of the IPL is coming to Mumbai. He uses his nexus with underworld in Mumbai and tries to route it through his recreation centre.

Sumanth (Vaibhav) is Arumuga Chettiyar's protégé. He hatches a conspiracy to take away the money in the company of a police officer Ganesh (Ashwin). They are joined by Mahanth (Mahanth), who runs a bar in Mumbai and Prem (Premgi Amaran), a fun-loving IIT pass out.

Coming to know of their plans, Vinayak steps in. He promises to help the team members and divide the booty between them. They even succeed in taking away the money and decide to wait for an appropriate time to share the fortune.

In the meantime, a shocked Arumuga Chettiyar begins his hunt for the treasure and every move of him is closely followed by Prithvi. All hell breaks loose from here.

Cheers to Ajith. The man after a long gap gets a role where he can perform with variety (Watch out for the scene where he demands Arjun to finish off Vaibhav). He is at his best and his salt and pepper look is catchy and attractive.

As a suave cop, a dreaded don or a adorable lover, he leaves his charm on screen. His uttering of one-liners to Arjun evokes applause. His imitating Premgi in few scenes brings the roof down in laughter.

Arjun lives up to his Action King tag. He adds variety on screen and is cool and consummate as a police officer.

Trisha appears in a few scenes besides a song and disappears. Andrea as Arjun's wife, Lakahmi Rai as call girl and Anjali in the role of Vaibhav's wife play blink-and-miss roles. Jayaprakash gets to play a decent part in the film. At places he reminds one of Kamal Haasan's role in 'Nayakan'. Vaibhav gets a meaty character and he utilises the opportunity.

Both Ganesh and Mahanth are tailor-made for the roles, while Premgi is at his best in the film. He takes off from where he left in 'Goa'. At ease in coming out with comical one-liners, his admiration for Ajith is visible on screen.

Watch out for good cinematography in such an action-packed film. Sakthi Saravanan has given a fresh colour to it. It's Yuvan Shankar Raja's mass tunes that elevates the mood. Accompanied by Karthik Raja, Bhavadharini and Premgi Amaran, he has shown difference in background score too (especially in the godown-fight scene in the second half)..

While editing by Praveen K L and N B Srikanth makes the film racy (doubly so in the second half), Vasuki Baskar's costumes fit well the 'Thala' and others. Stunts (courtesy Selva) are another highlight of 'Mankatha' Give due credit to Venkat Prabhu, the director who seems to have given a film that sits well on Ajith. He understood Ajith's strength and played it well. Who said he can only direct laughathons? With 'Mankatha', he has graduated to go higher places.

On the whole, it's job well done by Venkat Prabhu, producer Dhayanidhi Alagiri and other members of the team.

Ajith Kumar - steals both money and the show

[karthikwizz89 · 10/10 · 2 September 2011]

First half - Good start. A 'typical' Hero entry followed by a rocking song.. And then drags a little in the middle. Ajith-Premgi drunken scenes add a little bit of fun. A never-seen-before Ajith during Interval block. Otherwise, First half is all about building up the plot to explode it all for the second half..

Second half - Starts off with a great song and gets you already in the mood. Then starts the cat and mouse game. 2 of 5 in the gang tries to play smart and turns the game. From then on its Ajith's performance all the way.. And a typical Venkat Prabhu twist in the climax just makes it perfect.

Overall, a good entertainer which is way different from the usual movies of both Ajith and Venkat Prabhu. Congratulations to the whole crew..

Ajith's brilliant performance would be a delight to watch in this pure Ajith film

[kumarankulam · 7/10 · 7 February 2021]

Ajith is among the actors who unhesitantly makes bold experimental roles in his films whenever he gets the chance. Well, his 50th film Mankatha is definitely one of his boldest decisions. Ajith plays Vinayak Mahadev, a suspended police officer with a strong grey shade. He is the one who rules the overall play of the film. He dominates and lifts the film on his own shoulders with his terrific performance. It's a known fact that Ajith has done several grey shade roles in his earlier films but in Mankatha, Ajith seems to have played a different game. The film centralizes on his character which doesn't have the attributes of the usual heroes because he is a perfect antihero. Ajith is playing a role of his age and keeps his grey hair (salt and pepper look) which works in favor of the film. He has many bad habits and he is extremely selfish. The flaws that his character has is pretty interesting to watch. Mankatha is a clear Ajith show. No one can disrupt his presence in the film because he is the one who keeps us engaged in the film. We have Arjun playing the second hero in Mankatha. He has very limited screen time but he seems to do justice to the role. We have many supporting characters in the film who has only a few scenes to score. Premgi Amaren is the one who shines in the comedy scenes with his perfect comedy timing. Yuvan Shankar Raja's soundtrack and background score is a major pillar in Mankatha. It helps in lifting the film as well as Ajith's extraordinary screen presence. The main theme music of the film is a much-needed energy booster and fans have a special love for it. Let's come to Venkat Prabhu. He is doing the first big film of his career and it's the landmark film of Ajith which adds so much responsibility to him as a director. While looking at the output, Venkat Prabhu has made the most unexpected film of Ajith's career so far. He added many memorable fan moments especially the interval scene is a fire cracking moment for all the hardcore Ajith fans. By making the film tailor-made for Ajith, Venkat Prabhu forgot to add interesting plot points except for the surprising climax. It's Ajith who is controlling everything and everyone with his captivating screen presence. Except for him, Mankatha wouldn't have been this impactful. Unlike Venkat Prabhu's Chennai 600028, Saroja and Goa where every character had equal importance, in Mankatha, Ajith's performance overshadows the other character's presence. Well, it's also true that they didn't have much scope in the film. The usual Venkat Prabhu touches are really missing in this venture and it seems that he converted himself into an Ajith fan to make this product refreshing for Ajith's hardcore fans. Another big drawback, in Mankatha, is the song placements. Honestly, the songs could have been avoided in the second half because the racy narration was heavily slow downed by the unnecessary songs. Overall, Ajith's brilliant performance would be a delight to watch in this pure Ajith film.

Mankatha - In and Out Thala Movie!!!

[coollissel140287 · 10/10 · 5 September 2011]

No words to express the happiness that Mankatha becomes a Blockbuster.

Highlights:

1. Ajith's character name Vinayak Mahadev is the big plus to the film.

2. Venkat Prabhu's Narration and Cleverness in the screenplay. He proves that he can also take action thrillers perfectly.

3. Another Big Plus to Movie is Yuvan's BGM.

4. Perfect Casting. Mainly Action King Arjun.

5. Other characters get only few scenes but venkat prabhu gets what he wants from them.

6. Cinematography really mind blowing. Particularly opening scene of Thala, before the Interval Block and Climax Fight.

7. Editing Gets so fast and Furious after the Interval.

8. After interval so many twists and turns audience so much confused what is happening and also even more twists and turns finally climax fight everyone thinks the film is over... There comes real Venkat Prabhu Game... For this i can surely give him 101/100... Finally the end credits Amazing and funny to watch... Never seen thala's funniest side...Well done Venkat Prabhu...

Last But Not Least

Thala Performance:

1. Screen Presence with Salt and Pepper Hair Style. There he scores 10/10

2. His decision to do his 50th Film as a Multistarrer. In some scenes he don't have dialogues only other characters will speak. There he scores 20/20

3. Never Seen Performance...Especially his acting skills and dialogue modulation... For example "Money Money Money... Money" dialogue... His Bike and Car Stunts... One word "Ultimatum" There he scores 20/20

4. Finally for his 50th Film he choses to do a Negative shade character... No hero's will do this except few... Sorry in this film Thala doing as a 'Villian'... There he scores 50/50

Thala scores Finally - 100/100

Finally as a Ajith fan i thank Venkat Prabhu whole heartedly for giving such a treat to us... Never seen introduction to Thala in this Movie... Cheerz to Venkat Prabhu and his team...

Mankatha da!!!

A decent thriller

[arijhinku · 7/10 · 27 May 2021]

It's not too hard for a regular thriller consumer to guess the plot and subsequently the climax of the movie. However, this predictability doesn't for once get to you because of the way this movie is designed, the way the characters are written and the way each of the actors perform. However some negatives of the movie other than it's predictability are the way each woman character in the movie has been reduced to a mere prop and most importantly the songs which come as an hindrance in the flow of the movie, lastly the movie is 160 freakin' mins long which was not needed at all.

Mankatha is just Mindblowing !!!

[adrianbilla · 10/10 · 3 September 2011]

Saw this movie here in Sri Lanka, 30th august... Movie just Rocks... Thala acting is superb... The Storyline and Direction from Venkat is just amazing... Finally all i can say is 'I am impressed' as Thala Ajith says in the movie... Stunts need special mention, Thala does a bike stunt which is amazing... Shot perfectly without any logic mistake... where as in other movies, Hero will be flying here and there... and the interval block is just amazing... Hats off venkat ji... you rocked... about the songs... after long time thala film all songs rocking... specially machi open the bottle, vilayadu mankatha just rocks... my rating for Thala 10/10. Premgi as always rocking... Trisha looked cute... Lakshmi Rai looked very sexy... Watch in theatres only guys... confirmed Blockbuster of 2011 !!!

Thala rocks!!!! Game Over!!!!!

[rodionmyshkin · 7/10 · 5 December 2011]

Ho ho… Ajith, you got a new fan, bro! I didn't know you were this capable.Why didn't I go after you before.. OK, varalaru was good from you, but a few of your billa scenes were terrible,k… maybe coz of that… well, coming to the movie.. its heist, chases and twists..Yes,a bit predictable..seen many like them… shades of the infernal affairs trilogy and reservoir dogs.. so nothing novel in the story.. Good editing, BGM n effects.. could've have done without a few songs.. Arjun still has the panache yo.. The romance and betrayal was done with sinister class by Thala.. The chess scene was the highlight for me..Wow, green blood.. Prabhu, the pace was racy, but it lagged a bit here and there with providence helping you through the potholes in the script. Anyway, its Ajith who set the benchmark in the film. No actor in India would have opted for the grey hairs idea.Please do more negative/shaded roles.I see the Ledger-Joker in you bro..

Thala, luv ya.. Game over!!

Not Funny or Not Stylist - Dissappoitnment

[hrithikmonish · 1/10 · 10 December 2011]

Mankatha ...Such a waste of time.....The script was weak and the acting was terrible.....Direction was even worse...This movie is the worst of 2011...Ajit is a good a actor but taking this movie was his worst decision.....Music was terrible....Nothing original.....Also not sure what was Trisha doing in this movie....Well its high time that they stop an actress for just the sake of.....Even the F word couldn't save this movie...Terrible in all aspect......1/10.........................................AJIT PLEASE ACTI IN SOME GOOD MOVIES AND NOT ANYTHING LIKE THIS..................................