Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje / Joshwa D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JD)

Mangaluru, Jan 15: The first Tulu movie of 2016 'Jai Tulunad' produced by NRI-based entrepreneur Frank Fernandes was released in theatres across the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts on Friday January 15.

Veteran Tulu drama director Vijay Kumar Shetty inaugurated the movie at city's Suchitra theatre.

In his inaugural address, he said, "Frank Fernandes has produced this movie to preserve the rich culture of Tulunadu. The film has quality artistes and has come out well. I wish 'Jai Tulunad' becomes the first successful movie of this year."

Producer Frank Fernandes said, "I have produced this movie with the motive of doing something good for my homeland. I wish that this movie spreads love among one another."

Assistant producer of the movie Shivanna thanked the gathering and everyone involved in the making of the movie.

Director of the movie Praveen Thokkottu, lead actors Avinash Shetty, Sonal Monteiro, Shreya Anchan and others were present.

The film has been released in 11 theatres across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

Premiere

Several dignitaries including forest and ecology minister Ramanath Rai and bishop of Mangaluru diocese Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza graced the premier show of 'Jai Tulunad' movie at PVR Cinemas on Thursday January 14 evening and wished good luck to the movie.

Bishop Dr Aloysius addressed the gathering and said, "Even though his mother tongue is Konkani, Frank Fernandes, has made movies in Tulu, Konkani and Kannada and has been a strong force for the development of these languages. I wish him good luck," he said.

Ramanath Rai said, "Frank Fernandes is known for fostering new talent and thereby facilitating the development of the film industry. I wish all success to the movie."

Frank Fernandes spoke about the movie in his unique rhyming style and thanked all the dignitaries for gracing the occasion. The producer also sought everyone's support in making the successful.

Assistant producer of the movie Shivanna also spoke on the occasion.

Lead actor of the movie Avinash Shetty thanked all.

Review: Big thumbs-up for 'Jai Tulunad'

By Joshwa D'Souza

Produced by Frank Fernandes and directed by Praveen Thokkottu, the first movie of the Coastalwood this year is sure to remain in the hearts and minds of Tulu movie fans for a long time, thanks to its rich presentation and lively performances.

The story revolves around an inspector, and the challenges he faces from the underworld in the city. The story of the movie has been written by Devi Puttur and the dialogues are by S S David and Praveen. The six songs in the movie have been scored by James Architect. Several singers including Dr S P Balasubrahmanyam and Rajesh Krishnan have lent their voices to the songs.

The movie was shot in various places including Tumkur, Nandihalli, Madikeri, Sullia and Mangaluru. Tourist attractions like Kadri temple, Infant Jesus Shrine, Someshwara beach, Tannir Bavi beach and Kaup beach and other places of coastal Karnataka have come out well.

Avinash Shetty as inspector Surya, Sonal Montheiro as Nandita, Naveen D Padil as Robert, Shreya Anchan as Sowmya, Bhavya as Robert's mother, Aravind Bolar as Bisleri Babu, Nayana Gharan as Durgi, Manmohan Rai as Durga Shetty, Santhosh Shetty as Santhu, Monica as Shashikala, Alisha Andrade as Geetha, Prashanth as constable Deva and other supporting artistes have done justice to their roles.

Along with the above artistes, Frank Fernandes, Sarojini Shetty, Sai Prashanth D S, Shivanna Nandihalli, Jagadish Shetty, Ravi Gokak and Byndoor Meese Gopala also appear in the film.

Plot: Surya is a sincere police officer who is challenged by Nandita to find the murderers of her brother. The police officer not only nabs the murderer, an underworld element, within 24 hours and also wins her heart. On the other side, the underworld of the city are controlled by Durga Shetty and Durgi who grew up together and later become rivals. The story takes a huge turn with the rivals coming together to challenge inspector Surya. The movie, with its various twists and turns, depicts how a brave officer takes on the underworld.

Technical aspects

This is the maiden movie for Avinash Shetty in the lead role and the second for actress Sonal. It is Praveen Thokkottu's third movie as director after 'Kadala Mage' and 'Karkaladha Pavada Purush Santha Lawrence'. Avinash Shetty reminds one of Singham and Chulbul Pandey and succeeds in winning the hearts of the audience with his toned body and muscles. Sonal Monteiro is sizzling in her bold beach scenes and bubbly performance. Shreya Anchan as Surya's sister is impressive as the supporting actress.

Veteran Naveen D Padil has come out of his image of 'Kusaldarase', in a negative role that he has portrayed with intensity. He has also sung a duet with Shreya. Durga Shetty and Durgi have truly added a spark to the underworld with their performances. Punching dialogues, melodious music, effective camera work, beautiful coastal Karnataka locations leave you on the edge of the seat. The editing and post production works are the icing on the cake. Director Praveen Thokkottu's hard work has paid off. The movie deserves 8.5 stars out of 10.