What’s it about : More than 2000 years ago, the Tiruvalluvars who lived during the Sanga dynasty reign advocated that it is not a crime to withhold truth when it does a lot of good for public and if done otherwise does enormous damage. Rangam upholds this through its protagonist Ashwath, a daring, and dashing photo journalist. Ashwath works for a vernacular daily. The story looks familiar in the first half – politics, extremists, press, and educated & enterprising youth taking headlong the ruling and opposition parties. It is election time and seasoned politicians at the helm in the ruling party (played ably by Prakash Raj) and opposition (played by Kota Srinivasa Rao) clash. A new party – Yuvataram, enters the fray promising to bring in change for the better. It is headed by a student leader, Vasanth (Ajmal) and his ideals attract youth from all walks of life. Initially, it is just Vasanth contesting a seat so that he could represent people’s voice (if elected) in the Assembly. Ashwath covers Vasanth’s campaign. Ashwath’s incriminating evidence against the opposition leader lands the latter in jail. Meanwhile, a series of events take place including bomb blasts (where several Yuvataram party’s leaders, a press reporter Saru and several innocent people get killed) to dissuade Vasanth. At this juncture, Vasanth’s hands are strengthened with youth from across the state volunteer to join his party. Ashwath is ably assisted in his coverage by Renuka (Karthika), a fearless reporter. Yuvataram party sweeps the polls and Vasanth becomes Chief Minister. Even as the audience heaves a sigh of relief, a dramatic twist changes everything. What the twist is makes the rest of the story.

What is Good : Application of latest technology like Internet and hi-tech cell phones is aptly used in the story. This happens in a matter of minutes, thanks to Internet and associated technology. The second half is more serious than the first half. Even as you guess the next move, there is a sudden and surprise twist.

Jeeva gets under the skin of Ashwath’s character effortlessly and proves his talent in histrionics, dances and stunts. He chases a gang displaying his extraordinary riding skills while effortlessly clicking photographs. The film should be a delight for the committed fourth estate, who sticks to ethics against all odds to put forth truth before public. All other artists – Karthika, Piya Bajpayee, Ajmal among others did good job. Bubbly Saru (Piya) scores over Renu (Karthika).

What is bad: Seasoned and hard core politicians succumbing to the tactics of relatively inexperienced youngsters easily looks unconvincing.

Technical Departments : Director K V Anand did a good job. Cinematography stands out especially the breathtaking locales chosen for songs are simply superb. Harris Jayaraj’s lovely music score is an asset to the film.

Bottomline : Rangam sustains audience interest till the end. It unfolds several unexpected twists especially the climax when Ashwath convinces the heroine to heed to what he says in the larger interests of innocent Yuvatarm party bearers and members as also the public in general. The audience couldn’t agree more with Ashwath.