One would think that there can be nothing new to be said in a romantic drama, but director Yuvaraj Dhayalan presents a fresh perspective on the relationship challenges facing three modern couples in his latest film Irugapatru. Vikram Prabhu plays the lead opposite Shraddha Srinath. The supporting cast includes Viddharth, Shri, Sania Iyappan and Abarnitha. The late Manobala also played a significant role in the film.
The film looks at the lives of three very different couples. Manohar and Mithra – played by Vikram Prabhu and Shraddha respectively – appear to be the idyllic couple. They have a strong mutual understanding, never argue and spend lots of quality time together. Mithra is a marriage counsellor whose many cases include the growing chasm between the young couple Arjun and Divya – played respectively by Shri and Saniya Iyappan whose initial love and attraction has been replaced by open hostility. The other couple she provides therapy for are Rangesh and Pavithra – played by Viddharth and Abarnathi respectively. Rangesh is disgusted that his wife has put on weight, and, influenced by a divorcee at work, is convinced that his only solution is divorce.
It might sound like a dry documentary-type film that is preachy and overwhelmed by the message it wants to convey, and the first half of the film certainly gives that impression. The exposition is far too long with an unhurried pace and it is easy to believe that the film is going nowhere. This is not helped at all by a rather wooden performance from multi-award winning actress, Shraddha Srinath.
However, once the exposition is over, the film changes gear in peace and emotional impact and one then becomes drawn into the lives and minds of the six characters in an incisive and emotionally charged analysis of what keeps modern relationships alive and strong. The six characters provide multiple windows into relationships, whilst each also acts as a mirror for the viewer forcing them to re-examine their own attitudes, biases and contributions to relationships. The end result is a film that reaches deep into your soul and leaves a lasting impression.
What makes Irupatatru so powerful is the magnificent range of acting from its principal cast. This is undoubtedly one of Vikram Prabhu’s most powerful acting performances. His ability to deliver so much of emotion only through his eyes is strongly reminiscent of his legendary grandfather, Sivaji Ganesan. This has to be one of the finest acting performances by a lead actor in a long, long time.
Despite the impressive credentials of Shraddha Srinath and her impressive list of film awards, I found her to be the weakest of the six, showing the required emotions but failing to evoke any empathy from the audience.
Shri, who made his debut in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s debut film Maanagaram, is in a beautifully moulded role that is realistic and convincing. Playing his love interest is Malayalee actress Sania Iyappan whose potent expressions and powerful body language exudes the kind of intensity one would expect from a more seasoned actress.
Viddharth plays a complex role and he handles all the nuances required of the role expertly. Abarnitha, who plays his love interest in the film, combines strength and sensitivity in a deeply endearing role as Pavithra.
Cinematographer Gokul Benoy does not experiment much with lighting but his framing and colour palettes show a great deal of promise.
Justin Parabhakaran’s background score is good, peaking in his support of the narrative in the second half.
Yuvaraj Dhayalan has succeeded in making a film that almost everyone can relate to and a film that will undoubtedly play a role in forcing people to evaluate their own relationships through the many mirrors provided by the film. It’s a pity that the screenplay in the film’s first half did not have the same impact as the second, as it clouds what should have been a near-flawless film.
Despite this major flaw, Irugapattru is still a powerful film with a memorable message and deeply moving acting performances.
Irugapatru scores 7 points out of 10.