JOIN USRemaking a cult classic of yore is a different ball game altogether. Having watched the 1978 super-duper box-office hit by veteran K Balachander’s ‘Maro Charitra’ scores of times, Ravi Yadav’s attempt at making the film in a modern setting can only be called brave. In an Americanised setting with webcams, iphones, lingo, location, slang et al Yadav manages to keep the basic kernel true to original.
Shot extensively on exotic locations in the US, Canada, Dubai, Vizag and Hyderabad, and technically polished with scintillating cinematography, director Yadav’s ‘Maro Charitra’ has Varun playing Kamal Haasan’s Balu and Anita as Saritha’s Swapna.
That the new pair are pale shadows when compared to inimitable veterans of the former is obvious. Varun is high on energy and low on emotion. Devoid of acting merits, Anita is just a charming face.
If the first half is just about bearable, the second is simply insufferable.
While appreciating Yadav’s intent of paying obeisance to the master auteur one wishes he had infused more life into his listless, lethargic script. ‘Maro Charitra’ may kindle some interest among the curious audience today, but the film lacks soul and spirit of Balachander’s iconic tragic love flick.