R films' Leelai finally released after being in the cans for more than two years. Going by the title, one would think that it's an adult B-grade flick. But nope, it's not. Instead it's completely the opposite of it. Leelai an urban centric romantic film about two software professionals with good amount of fun.

What's it about?

Karthik (Shiv Pandit) is a flirt during college days, who loves and ditches girls, whose friend Karunai Malar (Manasi Parekh) hates romance and warns them about the guy. So, Karthik and Malar develop hatred towards each other through accidental phone conversations. After two years, Karthik happens to meet Malar, who works in the same IT park and falls in love with her. He introduces himself as Sundar to woo Malar and soon they fall in love with each other. Suja (Suhasini) gets to know about Karthik's act and advices him to say the truth to Malar. Whether Karthik tells the truth and what happens after that are told with twists and turns.

What's hot?

The film works mainly because of Andrew Louis' engaging screenplay. He has written the script beautifully with well etched characters and simple yet powerful dialogues. Shiv, the 'Shaitan' star is picture perfect as a typical IT professional and has done a neat job. Manasi emotes naturally and carried her role well. Suhasini as their friend adds strength. Velraj's camera work deserves applause for showing Chennai & suburbs with clarity. Satish Chakravarthy's songs are peppy and his background music also in sync with the storyline.

What's not?

Although Santhanam makes you laugh in few scenes, his separate comedy track doesn't gel well with the script and it's a major blow in the the flow of the film. Songs are inserted for the sake of it and takes a toll on viewers, particularly in the second half of the film. Andrew could have thought a little more towards the ending as the climax looks silly and one feels cheated after sitting through a neatly woven script with matured characters.

What to do?

If you are game for urban romance, then Leelai is worth a watch for its simple yet realistic treatment with fun.

In.com Rating - 3/5