Priyanka Uppendra’s back to Kannada cinema with 'Aitraaz' remake

Film: Srimathi (Kannada)
Director: G Ravi
Cast: Upendra, Priyanka Upendra, Celina Jaitly, Prem Chopra
Rating: **

This film is the much talked-about remake of the Akshay and Kareena starrer Aitraaz. True to the maker’s claim, the film remains a scene by scene copy of the film.

Albeit that it was delayed by over a year, the film makes for a decent watch.

The film, which is inspired by the Hollywood flick Disclosure, which talks about how men can be victims of sexual harassment as well, may be releasing in Kannada two decades later, but it will still draw audiences.

Priyanka and Upendra play a happily married couple and Celina, the tempestuous blast from the past, who shakes the foundation of their lives. It is Upendra’s srimathi (wife) who has to come to their rescue fighting the first ever legal case of her life, which is her husband’s.

Upendra gives an earnest performance, though his moustache-less look makes him look a tad older. Celina is perfect as the temptress. But, it is Priyanka who steals the show in her comeback film in Sandalwood. Prem Chopra, who plays Celina’s husband, lacks the punch.

This makes us question whether we need those many Bollywood imports in Sandalwood, at all.