Pettikadai

"Pettikadai" is a bold and socially relevant film that was released in 2019. This Indian drama, directed by Esakki Karvannan, exhibits a social and economic reality that many people may not be aware of. The movie stars talented actors such as Samuthirakani, Veera and Chandini Tamilarasan in pivotal roles. "Pettikadai" sheds light on the world of small businesses and their struggles in a society that's increasingly becoming corporatised.

Set against the backdrop of a small town in Tamil Nadu, "Pettikadai" follows the life of Muruga (played by Veera), a young man who runs a small grocery shop or a "Pettikadai" in Tamil. In this quiet town where everyone knows everyone, Muruga's petty shop becomes a hub for daily interactions in the community. This small shop is more than just a place for buying everyday essentials; it is a hub where friendships are nurtured, advice is sought, and the pulse of the community is felt.

This seemingly peaceful narrative is disrupted when a huge supermarket chain arrives in the town. With its shiny aisles and discounted offers, the supermarket presents an enticing prospect to the town's people, gradually luring customers away from Muruga’s traditional pettikadai, which is representative of many such small, family-run businesses.

The film shines an empathetic light on Muruga and his desperate attempts to keep his modest business afloat while competing against the corporate giant. Veera puts up a commendable performance, making the audience root for his character and his humble store. The film consistently highlights the importance of human relationships and personal interactions that small businesses commonly foster, which the more impersonal corporate establishments are unable to provide.

In a key role, Samuthirakani, a seasoned actor in the Tamil cinema, plays an important character that provides the film its moral and ethical backbone. He pays a pivotal role in driving the film’s narrative and making the audience question the impact of blind consumerism. His performance adds considerable weight to the storyline, making it more impactful.

Chandini Tamilarasan, as the lead female character, delivers a heartfelt performance. Her character portrays the struggle of traditional family systems battling to adapt to the changing social structures.

"Pettikadai" features engaging storytelling enriched by authentic performances from the cast. The film is not just about the tussle between a small shop and a big supermarket, but is rather a metaphor for a larger issue – the conflict between corporate culture invading and threatening the existence and survival of local businesses.

Director Esakki Karvannan elegantly showcases the tight-knit community dynamics in the small town, the simple joys of personal interactions, and the priceless value of human touch in businesses. He is successful in evoking empathy among viewers while also prodding them to think about the wilful annihilation of small businesses in the hands of mega-corporations.

"Pettikadai," while set in a small town in India, is representative of a global issue. The film's major strength lies in its simplicity and the power it holds to relay an important message about survival and identity in a world that's bowing down to capitalist forces.

"Pettikadai" offers a resonating social message while keeping the viewer engaged with its compelling storytelling and excellent performances from its cast. The evocative score and music further enhance the emotional quotient of the film.

In conclusion, the film is a must-watch for those who are intrigued by narratives that go beyond entertainment and instigate a thought process about our contemporary society’s systemic issues. The film doesn’t preach but merely presents a reality that’s often overlooked, making "Pettikadai" a compelling watch.