Film: “Mariyathai”; Director: Vikraman; Cast: Vijaykant, Meena, Meera Jasmine; Music Director: Vijay Anthony; Cinematography: O Andrew; Rating: **
Plagued by repeated delays, “Mariyathai” released just in time for the elections to boost its actor-turned-politician hero Vijaykant’s image. As expected, the film is full of political innuendo.

Director Vikraman has chosen to go back to subjects on father-son conflict seasoned with arguments against modernism and aided by condiments of cinematic melodrama.

A rich farmer Annamalai (Vijaykant) continues to help his son Raja (Vijaykant again) despite repeated pecuniary setbacks.

After separating from fiancee Radha (Meena), Raja finds new love-interest Chandra (Meera Jasmine) whose attempt to help him in totally predictable situations eggs the film towards a simple climax.

Without bone-jarring fights or display of oomph, the film meant to attract family audiences triggers ennui in Vijaykant’s fans who love their ‘captain’ to do his usual stuff of bashing villains and romancing.

Vijaykant manages to survive the ordeal of a dance, attempt at lip-synching a remix of former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran’s yesteryear hit number - obviously aimed at attracting the AIADMK crowd.

Vijaykant has aptly underplayed his roles with able support from Meena and Meera.

Vikraman, as usual, has done nothing new, but has provided decent entertainment.

Anthony’s music passes muster.