Massu Engira Masilamani (2016) is a movie that swings wildly between being engaging and outright exhausting. I went into it expecting a quirky mix of horror and comedy, and while it delivered on entertainment in parts, I couldn't shake the feeling that it overstayed its welcome. For a film with an interesting premise and a charismatic lead like Suriya, it somehow manages to lose itself in unnecessary detours and convoluted storytelling.
On the positive side, the movie does pack in some fun moments. The spooky elements, while not groundbreaking, are cleverly executed and provide some genuinely enjoyable scenes. Suriya's performance is a major highlight-he brings charm, energy, and just the right amount of seriousness to carry the film, even when the script falters. The message about redemption and standing up for justice is heartfelt, and I appreciated how the film tied that into its narrative. Plus, the last act really picks up, delivering a mix of emotional payoff and high-stakes action that almost makes you forget the slog leading up to it.
But that's the issue - almost. The film is far too lengthy for its own good. It spends so much time meandering with subplots and comic relief that it doesn't get to the point until well past the halfway mark. I found myself checking the time during the first half, waiting for things to click into place. When the story does finally kick into gear, it's good-but by then, I felt a bit worn out.
Another problem is the way new elements are introduced seemingly out of nowhere. At times, I couldn't tell if I was supposed to be shocked, confused, or both. It's not just surprising - it's disorienting. The convoluted narrative doesn't help either; with so many moving parts, the story often feels like it's trying to do too much, leaving some characters and plot points underdeveloped.
Ultimately, Massu Engira Masilamani is a mixed bag. There's enough entertainment to make it a decent one-time watch, but its pacing and cluttered execution weigh it down. For me, it's a film that could've been great if only it had been tighter and more focused.
