The slapstick portions involving Uttaman should have been crisper and given that by know we are familiar with Kamal’s tics, his performance as Uttaman doesn’t hold any surprise. But the actor more than makes up for it with Manoranjan; he doesn’t strain to make the role more empathetic and it is a remarkably restrained, heart-tugging performance from an actor who, at times, has a tendency to overplay his roles. We come to care so much for this character that by the time the film ends, we realize our eyes have become misty.

Uttama Villain will only appeal to a certain section of audience. Kamal Haasan’s mature performance and a emotional climax are basic assets of the film. On the flip side, a lengthy second half and lack of entertainment values will go against the film big time. Finally, all those who like Kamal Haasan’s style of film making and melodrama might end up liking it. But for the rest, it is just a below average affair.

Kamal Haasan shoulders the film in spite of its weaknesses. He is there in almost every frame and that is the biggest asset for this one. The treatment of the movie is sluggish and it will be a great disappointment if you expect something special from Kamal Haasan. The movie may seem okay if you go with nil expectations. We have seen many great films from the superstar and Uttama Villain will not have place amongst his best. The film may not do that well on the commercial front as it is a strict no-no for the masses.

Kamal Haasan alternates between experimental risky movies and low-budget commercial remake movies. The question in audience mind is which category does “Uttama Villain” fall under? In Uttama Villain, The answer is Kamal has blended them both and achieved mixed results.

On the whole, its shortcomings notwithstanding, Uttama Villain is a good example of an entertaining commercial film that didn’t need to be lazy or senseless.

When you walk out at the end of the film, after the credits roll, there sure would be a lump in your throat and you would tip your hat in favor of this amazing artist called Kamal Haasan. Take a bow sir!
Screaming of mastery in every department, Uttama Villain is True cinema

Some films you applaud, some you whistle and hoot , but audience’s appreciation of ‘Uttama Villain’(read Kamal Haasan) is expressed through the tears in their eyes as they leave the theatre. A question does arise whether Kamal Haasan’s ingenuity would reach all sections of the audiences, but still for the lovers of cinema ‘Uttama Villain will find a place in their hearts as one of Ulaganayagan’s best efforts.

Kamal Haasan’s writing is so dense and allusive and overstuffed and layered and indulgent that it’s always a question whether even the best actors and directors in the world can come up with the kind of wit and timing needed to fully make the transition from page to screen — in other words, the best Kamal Haasan movies are probably locked up inside his head, where they reside in the most perfect possible manner.

The story of Manoranjan and the scenes from the eighth century unfold simultaneously. The story shifts between superstar Manoranjan and the talented actor he is. It shifts between someone who is on the brink of death and someone who has been successfully dodging it. It shifts between mortality and stardom. What’s important for any actor is that he’s remembered even after he’s gone.

Kamal Haasan’s film offering several memorable moments is a must watch…

A Kamal Haasan movie is always a curiosity-kindler, and Uthama Villan is again the perfect fodder for the hunger and passion of any cinema fanatic! Touching areas of immortality, this meta-movie featuring late legend K .Balachander is simply the best tribute Kamal could have paid to his mentor and creator for its perfection in making and class in execution – Now that’s more than enough reason not to miss this one of a kind clinical performance!

There are few shortcomings. Nevertheless Kamals’ amazing screen presence pulls an otherwise bit dragging film with a runtime of 2hrs 52 minutes. The film can be enjoyed only in parts.

…a fitting tribute to the late K Balachander and is a film all Kamal Haasan fans can be proud of. On the flip side, it lacks the zest to keep everybody hooked throughout.