Film: Theriyama Unna Kadhalichiten
Director: K Ramu
Cast: Vijay Vasanth, Rasna, Pawan, Rajalakshmi, Nizhalgal Ravi
Directed by debutant Ramu, it's about how a couple evolve in their relationship and realise what true love is. It's a bland first half where the romance between the lead pair takes off. Towards the latter part, the narration peps up, maintaining interest and pace till the end. Makes one wonder if it's the same director who had directed the first half.
Karthik falls for high school student Gayathri at first sight. After the initial reluctance, she reciprocates. When Gayathri's marriage is finalised with her uncle Prakash (Pawan), the lovers decide to elope. But Prakash intervenes and promises to give his consent for their marriage if they fulfill a condition of his. The uncle or intended groom usually turns out to be the villain of the piece. But the director should be appreciated for depicting Prakash as a mature, understanding character. For Pawan, he plays it effectively.
The second half is about whether the couple manages to fulfill the condition set for them. The scene shifts to Kodaikanal. The screenplay seems to deteriorate further. But after a few minutes into the second half, the director springs a surprise. He tightens his grip and steers his narration through an interesting follow up. In the earlier part, Gayathri was shown as a normal girl and lazy to a fault. But in the scenes at the hill station, she suddenly does the 'Sridevi' act (Moondram Pirai). Her whole voice and demeanour develops childish overtones. This sudden change, though lacking conviction, leads to a lot of hilarious moments, some intentional, the others unintentional. Vishnu (his home production) comes into his own in these episodes. Splendid are his reactions where harassed by Gayathri's behaviour, he brings out his frustration and irritation. The pace and interest is maintained to the end.
The message that mutual understanding, tolerance and compromise is necessary for a relationship to be successful, is conveyed in a light hearted way.