The review of the film 'Meiyazhagan' highlights the dynamic performances of Karthi and Arvind Swami as they take on the leading roles in this engaging bromance drama.
C. Prem Kumar distinguishes himself from many filmmakers who prioritize grand narratives to create a cinematic spectacle. Instead, he is part of a select group of directors who emphasize the subtle, intimate moments that define human experience. His background as a cinematographer likely influences his ability to craft scenes that resemble animated still photographs. Following the success of his directorial debut, 96, his second film, Meiyazhagan, similarly unfolds as a collection of poignant moments in motion.
In Meiyazhagan, Prem raises thought-provoking questions that may seem familiar, such as the deeper significance behind why we refer to our birthplace as our hometown. The narrative begins in 1996, a year that is clearly intentional, as we meet a young Arunmozhi Varman, also known as Arul, who experiences a profound pain rarely depicted on film. Fast forward to 2018, when a family wedding compels him to return to his roots, and in search of closure, Arul (played by Arvind Swami) anticipates a brief visit. However, destiny complicates his plans, introducing him to a relative (Karthi) whose name eludes his memory.
On a broader scale, Meiyazhagan shares thematic similarities with 96; the central narrative primarily unfolds over the course of a single night, featuring two characters connected by a shared history, with flashbacks that intricately weave together the storyline. However, while 96 centers on unreciprocated love, Meiyazhagan delves into the complexities of human emotions. Beyond the compelling tale of a reserved urban man reconnecting with his heritage alongside an enthusiastic small-town companion, various elements contribute positively to the film's dramatic impact.
Meiyazhagan (Tamil)
Director: C Prem Kumar
Cast: Karthi, Arvind Swami, Sri Divya, Rajkiran, Devadarshini
Runtime: 178 minutes
Storyline: A man returns to his hometown after decades only to be showered with love and affection by a relative who he can’t seem to remember
The film explores the concept of stark contrasts, evident in the traits of the main characters and in finer details, such as the juxtaposition of Periyar's photograph alongside that of Lord Murugan on a wall, as well as the narratives surrounding their respective residences. Prem's exceptional setups and resolutions yield significant rewards, illustrated by subplots like the cycle that emphasizes the notion that one person's waste can be another's treasure, along with subtle references to a temple elephant and a humorous incident where the protagonists mistakenly don each other's slippers.
When Prem is not transforming written words into visually stunning narratives with his lead actors, he allows the supporting characters to take center stage. Aside from Arvind Swami and Karthi, the remaining cast members have relatively minor roles, yet they are crafted with enough depth to invite extensive exploration. The interactions among these characters feel authentic, enhanced by the director's choice to allow moments to breathe. For instance, there is a poignant scene where a distant relative confides in Arul about how her life might have changed had he chosen to marry her, gently touching his shoulder as she departs. Another impactful moment occurs between Arul’s father (Jayaprakash) and his relative Sokku (Rajkiran), leaving them in a state of despair, showcasing Prem's skill in portraying complex interpersonal dynamics.
The strength of Meiyazhagan lies in its ability to navigate intense emotions without resorting to melodrama. While there are minor missteps, such as a scene featuring a group of onlookers at a reception who are visibly moved by the events on stage—despite being one of the film's standout moments—these issues do not detract from the overall experience. They are akin to sandcastles before the powerful Cauvery River, which serves as the film's picturesque backdrop. On the subject of ‘Ponni nadhi’, the sight of an exuberant Karthi alongside an Arulmozhi Varman could very well inspire a new sub-genre within Tamil cinema.
The evolution of the relationship between the characters portrayed by Arvind Swami and Karthi is a delightful spectacle. Their roles, which forge an unexpected connection, showcase what may be Arvind Swami's finest performance to date, while also reviving the charming essence of Karthi reminiscent of his earlier works. Karthi's unnamed character, characterized by his innocent and playful demeanor, remains a consistent presence, while Arul transitions from viewing his relative as a nuisance to gradually embracing his endearing qualities. Prem has not only crafted one of the standout films of 2024 but has also provided a platform for these two exceptional actors to deliver performances that could define their careers. The film is further enhanced by stunning cinematography from Mahendiran Jayaraju and a melodious score by Govind Vasantha, with Kamal Haasan's rendition of the touching song ‘Yaaro Ivan Yaaro’ serving as the perfect finishing touch.
However, it is reasonable to anticipate that Meiyazhagan may not resonate with audiences to the same extent as 96. The film features a somewhat predictable conclusion and lacks sufficient content to justify its lengthy 178-minute duration. Nevertheless, this does not diminish the fact that it presents a profound character exploration brought to life by remarkable performances; for this reason, Meiyazhagan undoubtedly merits its designation.
Meiyazhagan is currently showing in theaters.
