100% Kadhal

100% Kadhal is a 2019 Indian Tamil-language romantic comedy film directed by M. M. Chandramouli and produced by Sukumar Bhagyaraj. It stars G.V. Prakash Kumar, Shalini Pandey, and Nassar in prominent roles. The movie is a remake of the Telugu film "100% Love", which was released back in 2011. It tries to bring to life a similar chemistry and spirit that was renowned in the original film.

The plot revolves mainly around Balu and Mahalakshmi, played by G.V. Prakash Kumar and Shalini Pandey respectively. Balu is an ambitious and egotistical young man who is extremely proud of his intellectual capabilities. He always stands at the top in his university and is geared towards a future filled with success and recognition. On the other hand, Mahalakshmi, Balu's cousin, is a modest, charming girl who moves in with Balu's family after her parents pass away.

Mahalakshmi, ever since she was a child, looked up to Balu as her idol and falls in love with him. As they spend time under the same roof, Balu also starts developing feelings for her but his ego keeps him from admitting it outright. The story offers a delightful representation of youthful love, misplaced ego, competition, and the rollercoaster ride of emotions synonymous with romantic relationships.

While Balu is an excellent scholar, Mahalakshmi has always been academically average. Owing to the difference in their intellectual capabilities, an intense rivalry sparks between the two when Balu challenges Mahalakshmi to beat him in his university exams. A significant portion of the film beautifully captures their competition and the efforts they put into outdoing each other.

The transformation of their relationship from that of a cousin's love to rivalry in academics to romantic involvement forms the crux of the story. How this competition impacts their relationship and where it eventually leads these two strong-willed individuals is what makes the film engaging to the audience.

G.V. Prakash Kumar's performance as the smart yet prideful Balu is laudable. He is able to capture the character's transitions effectively while maintaining the personality of a haughty genius. Shalini Pandey, known for her role in "Arjun Reddy", does a commendable job in presenting the character of Mahalakshmi coming from a rural background. Her stalwart determination to prove herself equal to Balu is brought out beautifully in her performance. The rest of the cast, including the evergreen actor Nassar, also contributes significantly to the narrative of the film.

The film is not just a rehash of the original but it adapts the story to suit the Tamil audience. It maintains the charm of the Telugu version while adding its own flavor. The music of 100% Kadhal, composed by G.V. Prakash Kumar himself, blends seamlessly with the narrative and significantly elevates the emotional depth of the film.

100% Kadhal is indeed a youthful story that attempts to highlight the role of ego in relationships, the importance of compromising, and understanding each other's perspectives in love. It's a vibrant representation of romantic rivalry, familial bonds, and the overcoming of one's own pride for the sake of love. Director M.M Chandramouli tries to keep the suspense intact till the end while concurrently providing viewers with a good dose of comedy and drama.

For those who enjoyed the original "100% Love", this film poses an interesting comparison. For others, it's a light-hearted romantic film that balances emotions and egos with the complexities of a love relationship. The highlight surely is the sparkling chemistry between G.V. Prakash Kumar and Shalini Pandey which makes this film a delightful watch. Deviating from the standard setting of love stories, the film provides an engaging narrative that keeps the audience hooked till the end.