Film Review: “29”

Lokesh Kanagaraj and Karthik Subbaraj come together as producers in the film 29. Rathnakumar, who made his directorial debut with Meyaadha Maan and directed Amala Paul’s Aadai, was signed on to direct the film. Rathnakumar has also co-written Master and Leo with Lokesh Kanagaraj.

Vidhu, whose previous film credits include Jigarthanda Double X and Retro, plays the male lead in 29 opposite Preethi Asrani who made her debut in Ayothi.

The supporting cast includes Mahendran, Avinash, Shehnaz Fathima, Premkumar, Sindhu Shyam, Aadhira Pandiyalakshmi, Sa Sathishkumar, Priyanka Rai and Anusri Velan.

Sathya (Vidhu) is 29 years old and believes that he will never find true love. Handicapped by a short temper, an acid tongue and something of an inferiority complex, Vidhu finds it difficult to get even close to forming anything more than a casual acquaintance with girls. That changes when he meets Viji (Preethi Asrani), but when love takes root, he finds himself hampered by his old habits and attitudes.

Viji, on the other hand, is facing her own personal challenges. Both of their handicaps come to the fore when their relationship reaches a turning point. Whether or not they can overcome their obstacles form the rest of the movie.

Although Rathnakumar’s screenplay begins far too slowly, it quickly gathers momentum, throwing a fresh perspective on the start of the relationship between Sathya and Viji, as they embark on a journey of discovering each other and – more importantly – discovering themselves in the process.

The screenplay takes root and becomes a solid foundation for a realistic, moving and gripping modern love story with modern sensibilities but admirable values. The journey through the relationship is intense, often poignant and takes the viewer deep into the minds and hearts of both characters.

Rathnakumar strengthens the screenplay with a powerful script that stays well away from cinematic clichés and reflects instead the angst and exhilaration of love in modern times. The characters are brilliantly crafted, with equal attention being given to the minor characters. The result is an experience that lingers with the audience long after the film ends.

Vidhu handles the challenging role of Sathya with apparent ease, showing an easy handling of a variety of emotions, supported by appropriate body language and gait. Preethi Asrani is proving to be one of the finest actresses in Kodambakkam at the moment, combining beauty with fiery emotions and endearing vulnerability.

Sa. Sathishkumar as Sathya’s friend creates an imposing presence in each of his scenes, with his character gaining credibility and momentum as the film progresses.

Shehnaz Fathima, Aadhira Paandialakshmi and Sindhu Shyam are the best of the others.

Cinematography by Madhesh Manickam is magnificent, exploring every aspect of creative cinematography – from creative framing to unusual tracking techniques to imaginative lighting and fresh angles, Madhesh Manickam ensures that his contribution to the film is an indelible one.

Sean Roldan seems to have found fresh focus in his music, impressing with the tuning and instrumentation in the songs and creating a background score that provides brilliant support to the narrative without being overpowering.

Despite the slow start, 29 in an unforgettable film because of its relatability, realistic acting performances, solid writing and credible emotions. Rathnakumar has ensured that the film’s many issues are handled in a sensible and tasteful way without losing the impact of his screenplay.

29 will easily join the list of classic love stories and should not be missed.

29 scores 9 points out of 10.