In an era dominated by action-packed blockbusters, Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi’s “Kadhalikka Neramillai“ takes a refreshing detour into the world of rom-coms, starring Nithya Menen and Ravi Mohan. While it seeks to evoke the charm of ’90s romantic comedies, the film struggles to rise above clichés.
The plot revolves around Sid (Ravi Mohan), a structural engineer opposed to having children, and Shreya (Nithya Menen), an architect navigating life post a failed relationship. Their lives intersect after Sid’s engagement falls apart and Shreya’s marriage registry ends in betrayal. Despite their shared moments, conflicting ideologies create distance, only for fate to reunite them eight years later.
The film touches upon themes like single parenting and the choice to remain child-free, but these are barely scratched. Shreya’s IVF journey, for instance, is oversimplified and unrealistic, reducing a complex process to mere convenience. However, Sid’s father’s thoughtful perspective on gay parenting adds depth, even as his gay friend Sethu is relegated to a caricature, which feels tone-deaf in a progressive narrative.
The strongest aspect of the film is the lead performances. Nithya Menen shines as Shreya, portraying the complexities of balancing motherhood and career, while Ravi Mohan delivers a convincing transformation as Sid. Gavemic U Ary’s cinematography vividly captures Chennai and Bengaluru’s vibrance, complemented by AR Rahman’s evocative soundtrack.
Despite its charm, “Kadhalikka Neramillai” relies too heavily on predictable tropes and redundant storytelling in its second half, diluting its emotional resonance. While it offers moments of light-hearted romance, it fails to leave a lasting impression.
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