Movie Review 'Nalanum Nandhiniyum': Is slightly undercooked

 

DIRECTION: Venkatesan

RATING: **1/2 Above average 

 

Two different families held together by one fragile bond - this forms the basis of Venkatesan’s Nalanum Namdhiniyum. But when the bond recedes into irrelevance due to squabbles that are remotely related to this connection, things can take a rather ugly turn where individuals of the families cease to think individually and are instead replaced by herd mentality.

 

Nalan (Michael) and Nandhini (Nanditha) have always been friends from their early youth. Not only does such a relationship from their childhood aid their families in helping their futures along, but also the love that kindles is of a natural kind, thus foregoing the need for any uncomfortable arrangements. Time passes by and one day, Nalan decides to visit his ancestral home. Things quickly go south when Nadhini's father, Arunachalam (Alagam Perumal) loses his local panchayat elections, the brunt of the blame for which falls on Nalan's uncle Duraipandi (Jayaprakash.) Fearful of further disagreements, Nalan and Nandhini abscond and get married elsewhere. In the meanwhile, their homes are as tremulous as ever and they instead move to Chennai in search of a new beginning. But now they face another beast - paying the bills and surviving. In the midst of such of a hodgepodge is also their unwavering determination to reunite their families.

 

Although Michael as Nalan and Nanditha as Nandhini go about their duty with plenty of oomph and emotion, it's the elderly men who win the accolades for this film. Jayaprakash and Azhagam Perumal as Uncles and Fathers go man to man with great conviction on the screen. Their performances achieve the intensity that this film desperately requires for it to work. 

 

Soori in his limited scope has done a fine job. Venkat Prabhu, mentor to Venkatesan has been roped in an interesting cameo as himself. And there’s this whole bunch of supporting cast who walk in and out of every frame. Had the director maintained the balance between such intensity and the charming innocence of the romance, the entire ride could have been one of mellowness and fruity account. But periods of trough from time to time might end up making this film slightly undercooked. Music by Ashwath is quite good and Nizar Shafi’s cinematography wouldn't hurt your eyes.