Film: 'Eeram'; Director: Arivazagan; Cast: Aadhi, Sindhu Menon, Nandha and Saranya Mohan; Music: Thaman; Rating: ***

Movies on supernatural thrillers are a rarity in Tamil cinema. 'Eeram' is a crime thriller and a horror flick rolled in one. Young director Arivazhagan deserves applause for a script that has an unfamiliar story with interesting twists and turns.

The way the element of water has been used in the script and portrayed through the lens is marvellous.

The movie begins with the death of Ramya (Sindhu Menon) and Vasudevan (Aadhi), a tough cop, takes up the task of investigating the case. Initially it was thought to be a suicide. But Vasu suspects some foul play.

The needle of suspicion falls on Ramya's husband Bala (Nandha) and a few of her neighbours. But subsequent murders in the apartments deepen the mystery. The way the killings take place adds to the confusion and makes the narrative interesting.

A flashback reveals that Vasu was Ramya's lover a few years ago. A determined Vasu goes hammer and tongs to trace the killer. And he is shocked to find out the reason behind her murder.

Arivazhagan has succeeded in sustaining the interest of the audience. The film is technically rich thanks to the cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa.

The way things unfold in the first half is really good.