Review of “Aan Paavam Pollathathu”

It is a huge challenge to make an authentic romantic comedy that has to traverse the tricky minefield that includes the clash of Indian and western values, the influence of social media on relationships and the ever-increasing voices on gender equality.

It is even more of a challenge to include all these factors without resorting to preaching or nudging people in a particular direction.

At a time when feminism and the fight for equality has taken centre stage across the world, director Kalaiarasan Thangavel has decided to gamble on a risky title like Aan Paavam Pollaathathu for his first directorial.

Rio Raj and Malavika Manoj head the cast, deftly supported by R.J. Vigneshkanth, Jenson Dhivakar, Sheela Rajkumar and Deepa Shanakar. Others in the cast are Raja Rani Pandiyan, Uma Ramachandran, Reshmi Karthikeyan, Anupama Kumar and Vstar Vinoth.

Like many young girls of today, Sakthi (Malavika Manoj) had a glamorised and social media-influenced perception of what her married life would be like when she agreed to marry Siva (Rio Raj) in a marriage arranged by her conservative parents. When the realities of household duties begin to bite, tension develops between the couple, erupting beyond control after a series of unfortunate events between them.

Their journey thereafter dissects the hard realities of married life in the modern world and the fresh challenges faced by couples. As the events begin to wade through the murky waters of political correctness, gender equality, feminism and culture clashes, it forces the viewer to ask whether romance can survive beyond marriage.

This is a film that is deeply relevant to the magician’s balance that is required these days to keep relationships alive. It holds up a mirror to the viewer, forcing an uncomfortable look at one’s own values and what has shaped them.

Rio Raj handles the challenging role brilliantly, embracing and radiating the many emotions required of the role. Malavika Manoj has an equally difficult task which often requires emoting without speaking.

The star of the film, however, is a spirited and deeply moving portrayal of Lawyer Narayanan by R.J. Vigneshkanth. Without dispensing with his unique brand of humour, R.J. Vigneshkanth delivers a performance that is likely to redesign his career in the film industry.

Sheela Rajkumar, playing the role of Lawyer Lakshmi, in a strong performance and shines brighter in the closing minutes of the film.  

Jenson Dhivakar is in a delightful role as Narayanan’s partner and assistant. His comedic timing is brilliant and plays a crucial role in tempering the emotional impact of the story.

A Venkatesh as Sakthi’s father is also in a memorable role, with Raja Rani Pandiyan, Uma Ramachandran and Reshmi Karthikeyan being the best of the others.

Cinematographer Madhesh Manickam unveils a different side to his skills, focusing on brilliant framing and creative angles while not ignoring his ability to use lighting creatively.

Siddhu Kumar, who made his debut as a music composer in the Siddharth-GV Prakash starrer, Sivappu Manjal Pachai, scores the music in Aan Paavam Pollaathathu and does an adequate job.

The story, penned by Sivakumar Murugeshan, is one that would resonate with most people because of its sensitive and balanced handling. Sivakumar Murugeshan also co-wrote the script and screenplay with director Kalaiarasan Thangavel. The strength of the characterisation, the organic humour and their keen understanding of the effects of modern life on people is evident throughout the film, making it palatable, accessible and identifiable with modern audiences.

Aan Paavam Pollaathathu scores 9 points out of 10.

Caution: The trailer below contains numerous spoilers.