‘Vanayuddham’, a biopic made by director A.M.R. Ramesh chronologically traces the growth of forest brigand Veerappan, who started as a poacher of sandalwood and ivory tusks and then killed his mentor to form his own gang.
Well-researched over 11 years, this narrative keeps viewers engaged, depicting events that grabbed newspaper headlines.
Viewers are reminded of the gruesome beheading of Forest Officer R. Srinivas in 1990 and of the bombing that resulted in the death of Suptd. Hari Krishna. Not to forget the famous kidnapping of Kannada matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar who was kept hostage for 100 days and then released. The story gets a shot in the arm with the arrival of action king Arjun as DGP Vijayakumar, appointed by the Tamil Nadu chief minister to nab Veerappan.
Ramesh takes us through Vijayakumar’s Operation Cocoon, revealing how the police sent undercover agents into Veerappan’s camp and planted a mole there that ultimately led to his death.
Arjun does complete justice to his role as cop Vijayakumar with his cool demeanour and brilliant performance. Ravi Kale as his deputy is wonderful with his subtle acting. Kishore gives life to Veerappan’s character with a commendable performance. Suresh Oberoi’s role is brief, yet as the kidnapped Rajkumar, he leaves a mark.
Ramesh, whose earlier film ‘Cyanide’ was based on the real life assassination of Rajiv Gandhi and won the Karnataka state award, presents another true life story. Complementing his work is cinematographer Vijay Milton’s visuals which were shot in real locations where major incidents from Veerappan’s life are shown.
Unfortunately, the Tamil version, with cuts laid down by court in response to Veerappan’s widow Muthulakshmi’s appeal restraining its release, draws a blank on his personal life. Veerappan, the husband and father, continues to remain an enigma.
