Lingaa is certainly among the least Rajini-esque films, even though the template of the plot — a man who is compelled to take up a task which he is least interested in undergoes a transformation after learning about the past and takes up the challenge and triumphs in the end — seems like something that is best suited to Rajinikanth. The problem with Lingaa is that even though Rajinikanth plays two characters, it is Lingeswaran whom the film is clearly smitten with. But the character is not truly striking and hardly has a formidable antagonist — the scheming British collector never seems threatening. So, what should have been a crisp and moving flashback episode turns into an indulgent stretch where many things take place without really furthering the narrative. At almost three hours, Lingaa is perhaps a tad too long, but the producer and director’s compulsions are understandable! For all the Rajni fans, don’t miss the chance!