Vasool Raja MBBS is a Tamil-language comedy film directed by S. Shankar and released on December 24, 2004. This film is a remake of the Bollywood hit Munnabhai MBBS, starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role, with Prakash Raj and Swarnamalya in key supporting roles. The genre of the movie is primarily comedy, with elements of drama and heartwarming moments that keep the audience engaged throughout.
In this review, we will explore the nuances of Vasool Raja MBBS, discussing its plot, the stellar performances, and what makes this film an enjoyable watch. Despite being a remake, the film offers a refreshing take on a familiar story, blending humor with meaningful life lessons.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- 1. Kamal Haasan’s Brilliant Performance
- 2. Hilarious Script and Direction
- 3. Prakash Raj’s Strong Supporting Role
- 4. Music and Songs by Vidyasagar
- 5. Heartwarming Storyline
- 6. Cinematography by K. V. Anand
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Budget & Earnings
- Day-wise Box Office Collection (India & Overseas)
- Box Office Verdict
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
Plot Summary
Vasool Raja MBBS follows the story of Vasool Raja, a local thug who is feared by many in his neighborhood. Despite his tough exterior, he harbors a deep desire to make his father proud, who is a well-respected doctor. Raja’s father, Dr. Shankar, has always wanted his son to follow in his footsteps and become a doctor. However, Raja’s life choices have been far from conventional.
To fulfill his father’s wish, Raja decides to enter medical college and earn a medical degree. The film follows his hilarious journey through medical school, where he faces challenges due to his lack of academic knowledge but makes up for it with street-smart tactics and wit. Raja’s interactions with his fellow students and professors lead to several comedic situations, while the underlying message of personal growth and redemption forms the heart of the film.
What’s Good?
1. Kamal Haasan’s Brilliant Performance
Kamal Haasan’s portrayal of Vasool Raja is one of the highlights of the film. Known for his versatile acting skills, Kamal once again proves his excellence in both comedy and emotional scenes. He seamlessly transitions from a comic gangster to a man with a soft heart, struggling to meet his father’s expectations. His timing, expressions, and body language add depth to the character, making Raja both humorous and endearing. Kamal Haasan’s ability to bring out the emotional core of the character without compromising on humor is truly commendable.
2. Hilarious Script and Direction
The script, which is a remake of the Bollywood film Munnabhai MBBS, has been adapted well for Tamil audiences by director S. Shankar. Shankar’s direction brings a unique flavor to the film, retaining the essence of the original while infusing local charm. The comedic scenes are well-paced, with just the right amount of humor to keep the audience entertained. The dialogues are witty, and Shankar’s use of situational comedy adds to the film’s overall lightheartedness.
3. Prakash Raj’s Strong Supporting Role
Prakash Raj plays Dr. Shankar, Vasool Raja’s father, and his performance adds emotional depth to the movie. While Kamal Haasan dominates the comedic scenes, Prakash Raj brings a sense of seriousness and emotional grounding to the film. The father-son relationship is at the heart of the story, and Prakash Raj’s portrayal of a man who wants the best for his son but cannot reconcile his son’s unconventional choices is both touching and relatable.
4. Music and Songs by Vidyasagar
The music, composed by Vidyasagar, adds to the film’s appeal. The soundtrack features catchy tunes that blend seamlessly with the film’s narrative. Songs like “Vasool Raja” and “Kaadhal Kaatchi” are lively and upbeat, while others like “Kundakka Mandakka” evoke a sense of fun and joy. The background score effectively complements the comedic moments, enhancing the impact of the jokes and situations.
5. Heartwarming Storyline
At its core, Vasool Raja MBBS is a story about love, redemption, and the bond between a father and his son. The film’s emotional moments are impactful without being overly melodramatic. The way Raja’s character transforms from a tough gangster to a caring son who wants to fulfill his father’s dreams is a testament to the film’s underlying message of personal growth and change.
6. Cinematography by K. V. Anand
The cinematography by K. V. Anand enhances the visual appeal of the movie. The vibrant and colorful shots, combined with the energetic pace of the film, make it visually engaging. The setting of the medical college, where most of the film takes place, is captured beautifully, creating an atmosphere that complements the film’s comedic tone.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
✅ Kamal Haasan’s Versatility: Kamal Haasan shines in his role, providing both laughter and emotional moments with ease.
✅ Strong Supporting Cast: Prakash Raj, Swarnamalya, and others add significant value to the story with their performances.
✅ Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama: The film strikes the right balance between humor and emotion, making it enjoyable for a wide audience.
✅ Engaging Music: The soundtrack and background score elevate the film’s overall atmosphere.
✅ Wholesome Family Entertainment: The film can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a great family watch.
Weaknesses
❌ Predictable Plot: While the story is heartwarming and enjoyable, the plot follows a predictable path, especially if one has seen Munnabhai MBBS.
❌ Some Slapstick Comedy: While the film excels in situational humor, a few of the slapstick moments might feel a bit forced for some viewers.
❌ Limited Character Development for Supporting Cast: While the main characters are well-developed, some supporting characters lack depth and could have been given more screen time to contribute to the storyline.
Target Audience
Vasool Raja MBBS will appeal to:
✔ Fans of Kamal Haasan – Those who appreciate Kamal’s unique style and versatile acting will love this film.
✔ Comedy Lovers – The film is filled with humor, making it perfect for those who enjoy lighthearted, comedic films.
✔ Family Audiences – The film’s wholesome nature and emotional core make it a great pick for family viewing.
✔ People Seeking Feel-Good Movies – The film’s positive messages about redemption and personal growth will resonate with those looking for uplifting content.
Box Office Details
Budget & Earnings
| Details | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | ₹6 crore |
| Worldwide Collection | ₹18 crore |
Day-wise Box Office Collection (India & Overseas)
| Day | India Collection (₹ Crore) | Overseas Collection (₹ Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 1.30 | 0.25 |
| Day 2 | 1.70 | 0.40 |
| Day 3 | 2.00 | 0.50 |
| Day 4 | 2.20 | 0.60 |
| Day 5 | 2.50 | 0.70 |
Box Office Verdict
Vasool Raja MBBS was a commercial success, grossing ₹18 crore worldwide. The film’s humor, strong performances, and Kamal Haasan’s star power contributed to its success at the box office. The film became a popular family entertainer and continued to perform well in theaters for weeks after its release.
Recommendation
Vasool Raja MBBS is an enjoyable and heartwarming film that blends comedy with a meaningful narrative. Kamal Haasan’s exceptional performance, the delightful direction, and the film’s emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of Tamil cinema.
⭐ Final Rating: 4/5
If you’re looking for a fun-filled, family-friendly movie that will also tug at your heartstrings, Vasool Raja MBBS is a great choice!
Genres:
Comedy
Rating:
6.828/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Kamal Haasan | Rajaraman Venkatraman (Vasool Raja) |
| Prakash Raj | Dr. Vishwanathan |
| Prabhu | Vatti |
| Sneha | Janaki Vishwanathan (Paapu) |
| Nagesh | Sriman Venkatraman |
| Rohini Hattangadi | Kasturi |
| Crazy Mohan | Professor Margabandhu |
| Karunas | Amit |
| Jayasurya | Zakir |
| Malavika | Priya |
| Ajay Rathnam | Medicine Professor |
| Kavithalaya Krishnan | Surgery Professor |
| Nithin Sathya | Neelakandan |
| Chitra Lakshmanan | Dr. Kalidas |
| Thalaivasal Vijay | Doctor |
| Santhana Bharathi | Gangadharan |
| Kaaka Radhakrishnan | Margabandhu’s father |
| A. K. Veerasamy | Hospital cleaner |
| Madhan Bob | Mani Raja |
| Vaiyapuri | Piles Patient |
| E. Ramadoss | Ward Boy |
| Karate Raja | Raja’s sidekick |
| Sampath Ram | Raja’s sidekick |
| Meera Krishnan | Mani Raja’s wife |
| Kaajal Pasupathi | Nurse |
| Boys Rajan | Professor |
| Yatin Karyekar | Anand |
| Thiruppaachi Benjamin | Pickpocket |
| Scisor Manogar | |
| Ragasiya | Dancer in the song “Cheena Thaana” |
How is Our Review?
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