MAAMAN Film Review

Soori’s rapid growth as an actor has been astounding. Since making his debut as a lead actor in Viduthalai Part 1, his script selection, depth of portrayal and his ability to live his character has turned him into one of Kodambakkam’s most remarkable actors. After fiery performances in Viduthalai Parts 1 & 2 and then Garudan, and even the failed Kottukaali, he unveils a new dimension to his acting skills in his latest film, Maaman, in which he makes his debut as a story writer. The film is directed by Prasanth Pandiyaraj, the director of Vilangu and Bruce Lee.

Maaman is a great example of how a simple family story can be turned into absorbing entertainment without resorting to TV-serial style melodrama and caricatured characters. The level of credibility comes from the way the characters, even the supporting characters, are realistically developed with credible character flaws and human weaknesses. None of the characters are larger-than-life and none of the focal points of the stories are beyond the understanding of the average person. This makes the film easy to relate to.

The story deals with the close bond between siblings Inba (Soori) and his elder sister, Girija (Swasika). Girija and her husband, Ravi (Baba Bhaskar) have been childless for many years, leading to them bearing the brunt of unkind and cruel remarks. When Girija falls pregnant, the joy felt by her brother, Inba eclipses the euphoria felt by the expectant parents. The bond between uncle and nephew is so strong that it threatens the other relationships in the family.

When Inba marries Rekha (Aishwarya Lekshmi) the once cute and quirky bond between uncle and nephew creates strain on some of the relationships, igniting simmering emotions and creating a situation that threatens the unity of the families. How the situation is resolved forms the rest of the story.  

What is impressive about the simple and largely linear story is the range of pertinent personal issues traversed by the narrative. This includes the dynamics between couples, family bonds and even a look at gender issues, and how these shape our roles in relationships. It often holds up a mirror to the audience with disturbingly accurate analyses of human emotions, leaving the audience incapable of escaping the magnetism of its story.

The impact of the story is greatly increased by the strength of the actors’ performances. Soori emotes and moves with apparent ease, evoking laughter, tears and awe with his electrifying performance. This is certainly a performance that is worthy of an award or two.

Aishwarya Lekshmi brings life into the already vibrant character, Rekha, showing that her greatest strength is her ability to emote without speaking.

Rajkiran and Viji Chandrasekar make a delightful and unforgettable screen pair with the kind of relationship that often outshines the other couples in the film.

Swasika, playing Inba’s elder sister, Girija, refuses to be overshadowed by the powerful performances of her co-stars, infusing fiery expressions and a credible range of emotions.

Baba Bhaskar and Bala Saravanan are also in memorable roles, while child star Prageeth Sivan delivers the ultimate punch in the film’s closing scenes.

There is also a memorable special guest appearance by Vemal.

This film marks the official Tamil debut of music composer Hesham Abdul Wahab who delivers memorable songs and a soul-stirring background score.

Cinematographer Dinesh Purushothaman uses creative framing and masterful use of lighting in his artistic shots that augment the impact of the film.

Produced by K Kumar for Lark Studios, Maaman is a powerful family drama that is a must-see for everyone, a film that is easy to relate to, with a story that is a heart-warming reminder of the importance of family bonds.

Maaman scores 9 points out of 10.