Lots of action and fights, a little bit of romance and sentiment for the mother or sister... these are some of the major ingredients of a Vijay film. And though he has been criticised for sticking to this time-tested formula, his fans don't seem to have any complaints.

Only critics who believe variety is the spice of life seem to be carping. His fans and even ordinary filmgoers are quite happy. When film after film is hitting the jackpot, will he or his producers show any courage or inclination to take a bold step to move away from the winning formula?

But Vijay's Tamil New Year bonanza "Sachein" does not fit into the formula at all.

One has to say hats off to producer Kalaipuli Thanu and debutant director John Mahendran for making a film like "Sachein". Of course, Vijay also has to be congratulated for finally agreeing to move out of the formula movies he has been churning out at regular intervals.

This does not mean that "Sachein" is a great or a path-breaking film. A usual romantic film, it is only different from Vijay's other films.

However, Vijay himself treads a different path -- especially the comic way he has portrayed Sachein.

There is nothing novel in the story; it has been told and re-told umpteen times. A college boy (Sachein) falls in love with the most beautiful girl (Shalini) in the college and even professes his love for her. But the hotheaded girl, who does not believe in puppy love, turns him down. The film ends when she shouts, "Sachein, I love you" at the airport. Don't frown and say, oh no, how many times have we seen this before?

Despite all this, the film is interesting. That is mainly because of the way Vijay has played Sachein. He looks like he is having a good time. And looks good too, unlike his recent action films. With a fresh and young Genelia as Shalini, the film is definitely worth a watch.

Vijay is there in every frame and he acts, whistles, dances and loves in true style. Even the unnecessary action scenes are done in style. No wonder his fans have given him the epithet 'Ilaya Thalapathi' (younger lieutenant). The difference between the 'Periya Thalapathi' and 'Ilaya Thalapathi' is that this one can actually act.

John Mahendran, the writer-director, is the son of the famous Tamil director Mahendran. Mahendran's name is associated with some good films, especially "Uthiripookal". Those familiar with Mahendran's films may frown at "Sachein".

If not for anything else, John Mahendran has to be congratulated for giving Vijay such a sweet and endearing role. Also, for choosing a fresh-as-morning dew Genelia for Shalini's role.