One of the most esteemed and heartwarming storytellers is back. That by itself is a detail impressive enough for enthusiastic movie-lovers. Well, the industry has been envisaging so many stories inspired by his Kaadhal Kottai. In fact, the wave has not died down yet. What is there in Ahathian's Nenjathai Killade that sets apart his efforts from others'?
Nenjathai... deals with the story of a young man Vasan whose life is not bound by any rigid principles. Each day's happenings and the experiences he puts himself through give him worldly 'gyan'. Vasan (Vikranth) eats in a restaurant though he ahs no money. Subsequently, he earns the wrath of the owner but wriggles out of the situation by using his guile and cunning. Clad in a delicate lady's outfit, Vasan checks the reactions and attitudes of passers-by; he commits petty crimes just to spend a day behind bars. He hires a sex-worker and tests the veracity of the glitz and din associated with the frothy world of casual and careless sex. But there, Vasan does not indulge in the experience; instead, he dozes off on the bed, satisfied with the feel of being there.
Anandhi (Bharathi), is a documentary filmmaker from the U.S. When she meets Vasan, she is attracted by his superficial charm. But when she comes to know about his experiments, Anandhi is startled. When Vasan narrates his experience with the sex-worker, Anandhi's outlook gets broadened. Looking beyond the façade of weirdness, she tries to understand the young man's approach and treats it as a sort of immature misstep in his life. Yet she goes ahead and confesses her love for him. But Vasan denies his interest, ignoring her interest too as a case of youthful attraction. Soon he regrets his decision and unites with Anandhi. The movie ends with a totally unexpected climax.
Ahathian's plotline is indeed very new to Tamil cinema. But he has given too much emphasis to Vasan's characterization, so a considerable portion of the film is devoted to establishing the protagonist's persona. Also, the justification given for his illogical behaviour is not convincing. Three films and 20 plus years old, Vikranth has given his best. Yet, the character demands a higher degree of performance, packed with more apt body language and appropriate expressions. Bharathi has done her role well. Imbibing the nuances of her character, she has created the right feel required.
Two praiseworthy aspects in the film are the excellent camerawork by D. Shankar and effectual background music by Yugendran. The performances of the supporting cast, including Manivannan, Saranya, Vikramaditya, and Nizhalgal Ravi, are also commendable. Music by Premji Amaran suits the theme. Sharp and crisp, dialogue is the major asset to the film.
Nenjathai Killade is indeed a welcome effort. It is a demonstration of what values mean in a young person's life. In that context, the film evidently offers a beacon of guidance for erring youth.
