The Vikram-Lingusaamy project that had begun way back in 2005 finally found light during Pongal 2008. For all those who were wanting to watch Vikram on screen after a long gap, this came as a downer, especially from a director like Lingusaamy. Vikram was good as usual, with a body that resembled a crowd bashing goon every bit, Trisha looked svelte and Harris Jeyaraj’s music was spot on. But, even all that put together couldn’t save Bheema.

Pirivom Sandhippom

A tale of family, relations, bonds, separation and the aftermath. One of the cleanest family subjects to come out of Kollywood in recent years and it is no surprise that it came from a director of Karu Pazhaniappan’s standards. It was mellow and melodious aided by sensitive performances from the lead cast, especially Sneha.

Kaalai

Silambarasan’s offering for Pongal 2008, directed by Timiru fame Tarun Gopi, Kaalai was the typical Kollywood saga of rage and revenge with romance and glamour thrown in for good measure. Silambarasan’s attempt to go full throttle on heroism did not have the desired results and Trun Gopi couldn’t carry his Timiru touch into his second film. Kaalai, by and large, remained a disappointment for all who were expecting a racy commercial entertainer.

Pazhani

Another commercial potboiler for Pongal 2008, what else do you expect from Perarasu, especially when he continues his by now famous practice of naming his films after places. Bharath was going all rustic and heroic perhaps for the first time in his career and Kajal Aggarwal was making her first major move into Kollywood. However, the intended panchamirtham did not suit the audiences’ tastes.

Vazhthukkal

Seeman joined Madhavan once again after their relative success in Thambi. This time, the duo looked intent on giving a message about family values and relations as opposed to the larger social message that was attempted in Thambi. With Bhavana for company, the film did raise expectations of an enjoyable romantic ride. However, the narration took away the zing from the romance, making it appear more tame than tantalizing.