'Cinema lover' Jyotika pens strong note as she defends Suriya’s Kanguva amid negative reviews: 'Definitely, the first 1/2 hour doesn’t work...'

Ever since the Suriya-starrer Kanguva hit the big screens, the makers have faced criticism from both audiences and critics, particularly for the film’s weak screenplay and "headache-inducing" sound effects. However, moving past the criticisms, Suriya’s wife and actress Jyotika has come forward in support of the film and hit back at trolls for undermining the team’s collective efforts.

Jyotika reviews Kanguva as a ‘cinema lover,’ NOT Suriya’s wife

Accusing "multiple group propagandas," the actress criticized people for posting negative reviews even before the FDFS (First Day First Show) screenings were completed. Although she praised the makers for crafting an exceptional 3D film, she agreed with the unanimous criticisms regarding the sound effects and admitted that the first half of the film didn’t work for her either.

Reviewing the film, Jyotika wrote, "I pen this note as Jyotika and a cinema lover, not as actor Suriya's wife. Kanguva—a spectacle in cinema. So proud of you, Suriya, for the actor you are and how you dare to dream and take cinema forward. Definitely, the first 1/2 hour doesn’t work, and the sound is jarring! Flaws are a part of most Indian films, so that’s only fair, especially in this kind of film where one experiments largely. And it’s just the first 1/2 hour out of the whole 3 hours. But to be true, it’s an absolute cinematic experience! Camera work and execution—never before seen in Tamil cinema."

Also read: Siva celebrates positive reactions to Kanguva as Suriya’s spectacle hits screens

She criticized the media for hyping films that promote stalking, mediocre writing, and over-the-top action, while passing negative reviews on films like Kanguva that have taken more effort. She continued, "I'm surprised by the negative reviews from media and certain fraternities, as such negativity isn’t directed at other big-budget films, even those with outdated stories where women are stalked, double-meaning dialogues are spoken, and over-the-top action sequences dominate. What about Kanguva's positives? The women’s action sequence in the second half and the young boy’s love and betrayal for Kanguva? It seems the good parts were forgotten while reviewing. This makes me wonder whether one should ever read, listen to, or believe such reviews! It’s sad that so much negativity was directed at Kanguva on Day 1, even before the first show was over (seemingly more like multiple group propagandas). The film deserves applause for the concept and the effort by the team to create a 3D experience and such a magnificent visual spectacle! Be proud, Team Kanguva, as those commenting negatively are doing just that—and nothing else to uplift cinema."

Kanguva’s mixed reception

Upon its initial theatrical release, the film drew mixed reactions from audiences. While Suriya’s exceptional performance, dedication, and action sequences were widely praised, many viewers found the film’s story underwhelming and criticized its uneven pacing and lackluster screenplay. Despite its strong visual effects and an energetic lead performance, some viewers felt that the story’s potential was lost due to clumsy execution. Additionally, the film’s sound effects were one of the major criticisms pointed out by audiences.

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