Film: 'Valmiki'; Cast: Akil, Meera Nandan, Devika, Ajayan Bala; Produced by: Vikatan Talkies; Written and directed by: G. Anatha Narayanan; Music: Ilayaraja; Rating **1/2

At a time when commercial cliches rule the roost in the southern film industry, debutant director G. Anantha Narayanan has tried his hand at an emotional pot-boiler in 'Valmiki' based on an off-beat theme.

Narayanan, a former associate of director Shankar, who is known for mega budget extravaganzas, has ensured that no shades of his mentor's style reflect in his work.

Produced by Vikatan Talkies, 'Valmiki' is a tale of a young wayward youth, who gets reformed. The title probably takes its inspiration from saint Valmiki, who wrote the great epic 'Ramayana'. Valmiki was said to have been a robber earlier in his life but later reformed.

The movie is about Pandi (Akil), born and brought up in a Chennai slum. An orphan, he makes a living robbing others. His jovial ways win him the admiration of many. He comes across a good samaritan for Vandhana (Meera Nandan), who runs a creche. She is committed to helping others.

One day, Pandi saves Vandhana from a lunatic (Badava Gopi). They begin to meet each other often and soon Vandhana develops a soft corner for Pandi.

Pandi, fearing that he might lose the friendship of Vandana, hides the fact that he is a robber.

Vandhana, however, comes to know about his profession. She vows to reform Pandi, but succeeds in her mission only after a disaster.

Akil, who burst onto the scene with 'Kallori', has done a decent job. Meera Nandan reminds one of Nadhiya. Despite the fact that her character is cliched, her spontaneous expressions deserve a mention. Newcomer Devika impresses.

Ilayaraja's music remind of his earlier ones. A couple of songs, however, sound good and fit into the story perfectly. His background score lifts the narrative in many places.

Though 'Valmiki' manages to sustain interest in parts, a sense of deja vu does prevail all through.

In short, 'Valmiki' begins with promise but fizzles out post-interval.