Brindhaavanam

Brindhaavanam, released in 2017, is a Tamil language comedy-drama directed by Radha Mohan and starring Arulnithi, Vivek and Tanya S Ravichandran. The captivating storyline, witty dialogue, and engaging performances, make the film a delightful watch for audience.

The powerhouse actor Arulnithi, known for his acting prowess and choice of distinctive scripts, plays the role of Kannan, a speech-impaired hairdresser from a small town. Kannan’s life goes on a roller coaster ride when he encounters his favorite film star and life-long idol, Vivek, played by Vivek himself. In a nuanced performance, Arulnithi portrays the vulnerability and excitement of a small-town guy stepping into the world of big dreams.

Vivek, a veteran Tamil cinema actor, showcases the life of a film star and portrays an equally major role in the movie. Brindhaavanam revives the iconic comedy avatar of Vivek. The film brings back the actor’s vintage humor while also giving him ample room to portray more dramatic emotions, exploring a new dimension to this veteran actor’s versatility.

In the movie, Tanya S Ravichandran plays the role of Kavitha, a bubbly girl who is Kannan's friend and his love interest. Ravichandran's performance adds a pleasant romantic layer to the story and brings out a new facet in the relationship dynamics with the role of Kannan portrayed by Arulnithi.

The narrative of the film is light-hearted and blends humor with emotion, typical to Radha Mohan's filmmaking style, who is well-known for creating poignant films that are high on content and low on melodrama. Alongside the humor and laugh-out-loud moments, Brindhaavanam delves deep into several social issues which makes it more than a mere entertainer.

Hearing impairment is rarely portrayed with sensitivity in cinema but Brindhaavanam stands out for its well-researched representation of the same. Arulnithi effectively portrays a character who is unable to communicate vocally, yet is full of life and adventures thereby breaking the stereotypes around differently-abled individuals.

Additionally, the film features an ensemble supporting cast which includes M. S. Bhaskar, Thalaivasal Vijay, Subbu Panchu Arunachalam and others. Their performances further add color to the overall story, enhancing its impact considerably.

Furthermore, the movie is beautiful in its technical execution. Visually, the film is a treat with lush rural landscapes brought to life, capturing the charm of a small town. Every frame has a rustic feel to it that transports viewers right into the heart of the narrative. The music, composed by Vishal Chandrasekhar, works as another layer of the movie’s narrative, adding depth to on-screen emotions, and keeping the audience engaged in the plot progression.

The film also showcases the contrast between the glamourous world of cinema and the ordinary, peaceful life in a small town. The film beautifully demonstrates how Kannan's life intertwines with that of a famous film star, revealing some heartwarming revelations and life lessons in the process.

All in all, Brindhaavanam is a heartwarming film, a perfect blend of comedy, drama, and romance. It's a cinematic delight that strikes a conversation about crucial social issues while preserving the lighthearted tone. This journey of a no-voice small town hairdresser, transcending towards the glamour world of cinema, is a joy ride for those who value cinema that makes them laugh as well as think. While its socially relevant themes give it depth, its humor gives it its charm, making it a must-watch for fans of Tamil cinema.