Quick Review : Thozhar Venkatesan
By Rinku Gupta
Thozhar Vekatesan is directed by Maha Shivan and produced by Kala Films.
The story revolves around a young man Venkatesan ( newbie Hari Sankar) who is a proud entrepreneur selling home made sodas in his village. He meets Kamli ( Monica Chinnakotla) an innocent girl whose mother dies, and who resorts to suicide in order to escape a grim future, having been subject to overtures of lecherous men. Venkatesan offers her his home and soon a tender affection and deep love develops between them. Just when things are going well, tragedy strikes.
A Government bus runs over Venkatesan and his arms are amputated. He is told he can get compensation by his lawyer but his case runs on for 3 years before 20 lakhs is allotted by the courts. However instead of the money, a bus is given to him as compensation till the money due to him is paid up by the reluctant to pay government. The bus turns out to be a white elephant and only adds to his woes. What happens to the young couple? Do they ever get justice?
Director Mahasivan deserves kudos for the unusual choice of subject, in a slice of life film, that is inspired by true events as the end credits show. The wonderful acting by the lead pair, bringing out their innocence, pain, despair, love and hope in such seemingly effortless performances, makes the film a delight to watch. The real meaning of love, portrayed by tenderness and caring for the other especially in thier time of need adds a freshness to the romantic angle.
Despite the tragedy, the lead characters are never shown wallowing in pity, instead thier dynamism to take life head on is commendable and inspiring. The humour is inherent in the situations and dialogues, ensuring that there is never a lag nor heaviness, despite the serious issues handled.
The supporting cast is well chosen. The reality of delayed compensations, delayed judgements, the cruel nature of a collectively selfish society and the helplessness of the common man are beautifully portrayed with a blend of sensitivity and wit.
Watchout though for some painful visuals along the way.
A good watch.
Thozhar Vekatesan is directed by Maha Shivan and produced by Kala Films.
The story revolves around a young man Venkatesan ( newbie Hari Sankar) who is a proud entrepreneur selling home made sodas in his village. He meets Kamli ( Monica Chinnakotla) an innocent girl whose mother dies, and who resorts to suicide in order to escape a grim future, having been subject to overtures of lecherous men. Venkatesan offers her his home and soon a tender affection and deep love develops between them. Just when things are going well, tragedy strikes.
A Government bus runs over Venkatesan and his arms are amputated. He is told he can get compensation by his lawyer but his case runs on for 3 years before 20 lakhs is allotted by the courts. However instead of the money, a bus is given to him as compensation till the money due to him is paid up by the reluctant to pay government. The bus turns out to be a white elephant and only adds to his woes. What happens to the young couple? Do they ever get justice?
Director Mahasivan deserves kudos for the unusual choice of subject, in a slice of life film, that is inspired by true events as the end credits show. The wonderful acting by the lead pair, bringing out their innocence, pain, despair, love and hope in such seemingly effortless performances, makes the film a delight to watch. The real meaning of love, portrayed by tenderness and caring for the other especially in thier time of need adds a freshness to the romantic angle.
Despite the tragedy, the lead characters are never shown wallowing in pity, instead thier dynamism to take life head on is commendable and inspiring. The humour is inherent in the situations and dialogues, ensuring that there is never a lag nor heaviness, despite the serious issues handled.
The supporting cast is well chosen. The reality of delayed compensations, delayed judgements, the cruel nature of a collectively selfish society and the helplessness of the common man are beautifully portrayed with a blend of sensitivity and wit.
Watchout though for some painful visuals along the way.
A good watch.
