Though it is a plot-driven film, Papanasam is equally a Kamal Haasan show. This is turning out to be a splendid year for Kamal, the actor. If he made us care for Manoranjan in Uttama Villain with a restrained performance, here, he superbly balances the showiness and resoluteness of Suyambulingam. After a long while, Kamal isn’t encumbered by the other roles he has to play in the film (we have to go back to Vettaiyadu Vilayadu to see him in only one role — actor) and that seems to have been refreshing for him. There is a little more vigour in his performance and it is a joy to see him having fun in the initial portions of the film. This calm also translates into a measured performance in scenes which require heavy-duty acting. Take away the minor issue of the fake moustache and this is a flawless performance
Tamil