Chamak

The 2017 Indian Kannada-language film "Chamak" is a comedic, romantic rollercoaster directed by Suni. The talented Ganesh stars in this film alongside the captivating Rashmika Mandanna and the brilliant Sanjana Shetty. Its intricate storyline, combined with its entertaining dialogues and strong performances, make it an engaging and enjoyable South Indian film.

The movie centers around the complicated and laugh-out-loud funny relationship between the movie's two main characters. We are introduced to a character named Kush, played by the illustrious actor Ganesh, an affluent gynaecologist who leads an extravagant and rather glamorous lifestyle in the city of Bangalore. This cheerful, lively individual loves his luxurious life, desiring nothing more than to enjoy his success. Rashmika Mandanna plays the role of the independent and strong-minded Kushi, who is as multifaceted as her name suggests.

"Chamak" provides a refreshing and amusing take on the institution of arranged marriages and love while dodging cliches that often come with the territory of this genre. Kush and Kushi are an unusual pair who find themselves thrust into an arranged marriage, the cause of much of the movie's drama and hilarity. Their distinct personalities lead to a meandering relationship that forms the film's backbone. The couple then embark on a journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding, where they navigate the convoluted labyrinth of a modern marriage. All this gastronomical journey is accompanied by a wonderful dose of family drama, creating a crisp contrast between traditional Indian values and today's modern ideologies.

The movie also portrays the essence of the millennial turmoil - the surge between expectations and reality, responsibilities, and the pursuit of individual freedom. This makes "Chamak" more than just a comedy and romance movie, but also a profound social commentary.

But the director, Suni, does not allow these heavy themes to weigh down the film's pacing. He expertly intersperses comedic scenes, ensuring the narrative flows smoothly while keeping audiences entertained. The film carefully balances being both a light-hearted rom-com and an exploration of deeper, more complex themes.

Ganesh delivers a dedicated performance, showcasing a range of emotions throughout. His comic time is commendable and his chemistry with Rashmika Mandanna is one of the film's highlights. Mandanna, on her part, shines in her performance as Kushi. Her distinct character portrayal brings humor, depth, and personality to the screen. Together, Ganesh and Mandanna carry the film, providing it with its energy, vibrance, and token ‘chamak’.

"Chamak" also benefits from Sanjana Shetty’s commendable supporting role, adding another flavour to the storyline. Other actors in supporting roles also contribute significantly to the film's charm with their stellar performances.

The film's technical aspects deserve a mention as well. Sudhakar S Raj’s cinematography beautifully captures both the urban cityscapes and rural landscapes of South India. The scenes are shot with a keen eye for detail, combining color and context, setting a lively yet, at times, poignant atmosphere which further boosts the narrative.

The musical score by Judah Sandy plays a significant part in the film’s appeal. Songs like "Kush Kush" and the title track "Chamak" have become popular hits, enhancing the narrative with entertainment value. Sandy also provides a wonderfully nuanced background score which complements and accentuates the narrative beautifully.

In conclusion, "Chamak" is an enjoyable cocktail of romance, comedy, and drama. It's a film that has wholeheartedly embraced the rom-com genre, while still experimenting with its unwritten rules, and has emerged as a fun, relatable, and heartwarming watch. Above all, the film appreciates the 'chamak' or sparkle of life despite all the ups and downs which make it a must-see for fans of South Indian cinema.