Kuttrame Thandanai

Kuttrame Thandanai is a gripping and evocative Tamil thriller-drama film released in the year 2016. Centered around a thrilling, morally complex narrative, the film explores the themes of crime, corruption, individual dilemmas, and societal pressure. Skillfully directed by M Manikandan, who also penned the story along with Anand Annamalai, the film features Vidharth, Pooja Devariya, and Aishwarya Rajesh in vital roles. The film's compelling visual storytelling is amplified by its meticulous cinematography, and a tightly composed original score.

The plot revolves around Ravi (Vidharth), a young man working as a credit card collection agent, who leads a very modest existence in a Chennai neighborhood. Living alone in a small house, his life is defined by his routine work and minimum social interactions. Over time, Ravi develops a condition called tunnel vision, a rare disorder wherein one loses peripheral vision and sees only straight, as if looking through a tunnel. This element not only serves as a pivotal part of the narrative but also acts metaphorically throughout the movie. The story takes a riveting turn when Ravi witnesses a shocking incident and finds himself immersed in a predicament that tests his morals.

Simultaneously, we're introduced to two strong female characters. The ravishing Swetha (Pooja Devariya), Ravi's neighbor who piques his interest and the unpretentious Amala (Aishwarya Rajesh), who shares an unconventional camaraderie with him. Both characters play substantial roles, adding depth and diversity to the storyline.

The predicament in which Ravi finds himself evolves into the crux of the storyline, drawing attention to the ethical choices individuals make when faced with difficult circumstances. The film expertly navigates the various moral gray areas, provoking the audience to ponder over the line that separates right from wrong. It keeps viewers guessing from one twist to the next, yet always manages to make its characters' actions understandable, if not completely justifiable.

Actor Vidharth does an exceptional job portraying the complicated character of Ravi, demonstrating his range and versatility. He appears as the ‘average man' who is constantly teetering between survival instinct and moral obligation, adding to the suspense and intrigue of the story.

Pooja Devariya's performance as Swetha is commendable. She brings just the right amount of mystery and allure to the character, successfully making her a vital part of the story's intrigue. Aishwarya Rajesh, as Amala, presents a convincing performance, offering a refreshing contrast to the other characters' complexities.

Undoubtedly, another star of Kuttrame Thandanai is the cinematography. The camera work by Manikandan himself seems to work as an extension of Ravi's viewpoint, amplifying the sensation of looking through a ‘tunnel’. The clever and atmospheric use of shadows and lighting adds to the suspenseful mood of the film, providing a profound and vivid cinematic experience.

The movie also bears a hauntingly beautiful background score by Ilaiyaraaja, which seamlessly blends with the tone of the film and enhances the dramatic tension. Along with this, the crisp editing by Anucharan keeps the film well-paced and ensures the suspense and intrigue are maintained throughout.

Despite its dark undertone, Kuttrame Thandanai leaves its audience contemplating the fragility of human morality when pushed against the wall. It provides a biting commentary on society's collective conscience and individual integrity, steering clear of judgement or sermonizing. The movie is much more than a simple crime drama, it's a thought-provoking study of human values and the complexities of the choices we make.

In conclusion, Kuttrame Thandanai is an intelligently crafted tale, full of depth and rich characters, offering viewers a refreshing departure from usual cinema tropes. It is a movie destined to leave a lasting impression, invoking introspection on the subjective nature of truth, justice, and morality. This insightful narrative blend of thriller, drama, and social commentary marks Kuttrame Thandanai as a must-watch for fans of complex, thought-provoking cinema.