Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu Review: A lighthearted and straightforward tribute to camaraderie, affection, and the concept of home.
The review of the film Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu describes it as a nostalgic journey, allowing viewers to reminisce at a leisurely pace. The narrative emphasizes the significance of the journey itself, illustrating how each path naturally attracts its own guides when the time is right.
During a segment of the voiceover that accompanies the entirety of Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu, the character Anand (Ananth) remarks, “My house is small, but it is a place that had a lot of happiness.” While such a statement may appear clichéd or somewhat outdated for a film released in 2024, it is noteworthy that in a society that often equates grandeur with success, this film emphasizes the significance of one’s ‘own house’ as a topic of discussion rather than a source of self-pity. The film celebrates its straightforwardness, with writer-director Ananth striving to maintain this simplicity throughout. Indeed, viewing Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu feels akin to embarking on a leisurely journey down memory lane, free from the pressure to reach a conclusion swiftly. Presented by Venkat Prabhu, the film underscores the value of the journey itself, illustrating how each path discovers its own champions when the time is right.
Ananth, who has previously taken on supporting roles in films such as Meesaya Murukku and Natpe Thunai, follows in the footsteps of Hiphop Tamizha Adhi to create a film that highlights his strengths, centering on the theme that friendship serves as a guiding force. From the outset, Ananth amplifies the nostalgic elements to resonate with an audience that enjoys reminiscing on Thursdays and reflecting on the past on Fridays. The film features references to WWE, nostalgic ‘colony days,’ intense games of seven stones, tape recorders, and audio cassettes, as well as moments of college counseling that starkly contrast the idealized images presented in brochures. Additionally, there are nods to Thala and Thalapathy, along with numerous other concepts that may not always succeed but contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences.
Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu is replete with moments that unfold in succession, allowing the audience ample opportunity to engage with the narrative. The film centers on Ananth and the companions he encounters throughout his life's journey. He is accompanied by his school and colony friends, led by the talented RJ Vijay, as well as his college peers and a group from Singapore, headed by the capable Vinoth. Each of these groups serves as a vital reservoir in his life. Additionally, Professor Maya, portrayed by Aishwarya, adds significant credibility and dignity to a role that remains underrepresented in cinema. The impact of a good teacher can be transformative, and it is refreshing to witness a portrayal of college life that avoids caricature. Furthermore, the romantic subplot between Ananth and Kanamma, played by Bhavani Sre, begins positively, encounters significant challenges, and ultimately reaches a satisfying conclusion. Ananth skillfully unites these diverse groups to pursue the collective aspiration of finding fulfilling employment. The narrative includes elements such as a start-up, an innovative app, financial difficulties, and a major conflict that arises. While the plot may appear densely packed or hurried, it flows seamlessly, as Ananth frequently offers nostalgic moments that keep the audience engaged.
The benevolence exhibited by the individuals in Anand's life may seem excessively convenient; however, Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu seeks to convey that anyone can become a friend with the right approach. Although the abundance of kindness among the characters may feel overwhelming, it is evident that these traits are intrinsic to their true selves rather than mere facades. Each character, including Ananth, is thoughtfully crafted with a well-defined narrative arc. Every individual possesses desires, needs, and resolutions, which constitutes the film's greatest strength.
Ananth's ability to not only leverage his strengths but also to draw upon the offscreen personas of his main characters, predominantly social media influencers, is commendable. However, there are instances where he loosens his grip on the narrative. The significant conflict that threatens to disrupt the close-knit group appears somewhat arbitrary. Nevertheless, the film remains impactful as long as it explores the interpersonal dynamics among these characters. When the focus shifts, however, the film suffers from moments of emptiness. This void is somewhat alleviated by the music of AH Kaashif, who not only provides lively remixes of several tracks from his esteemed uncle AR Rahman's collection but also presents an outstanding album. The cinematography by Tamil Selvan enhances the confined spaces, offering a glimpse into Anand's life, and special recognition is due to art director Rahul for creating a Chennai that feels authentically inhabited.
Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu possesses numerous strengths; however, certain aspects remain insufficiently explored. While the film centers on friendship, it neglects to delve into the dynamics of the other friends within the group. A deeper exploration of those who remained loyal would have enriched the narrative. During a pivotal conflict, the audience is expected to suspend their disbelief, which is a considerable demand in a film that otherwise feels grounded in reality. What accounts for the lack of communication among the friends? Anand is not merely a reflection of Kosaksi Pasapugazh, despite the film commencing with a flight. Why does Kannamma fail to answer Anand's call or engage in conversation? They do not inhabit an era akin to that of Kamali and Surya, do they? Why alter the trajectory of a jovial character solely to facilitate the protagonist's character development? What prompts Kannamma to be depicted as a long-lost relative of Anitha from 7G Rainbow Colony? Why introduce stakes at this juncture when the filmmakers were successfully providing an experiential narrative rather than a didactic one through Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu?
It is this very experience that ultimately benefits the film. We tend to overlook certain shortcomings, particularly the inconsistencies in performance, as we are swept away by a wave of nostalgia. We reflect on our friendships, the paths we did not take, moments when a friend uttered words we could never forgive, and instances when we recognized a friendship's demise yet clung to it in hope of revival. We recall times when aspirations were set aside in pursuit of reality. These reflections arise because Ananth and his companions transport us through a time machine known as Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu, prompting us to envision our lives across various timelines. It is often said that insanity lies in repeating the same actions while expecting different results. Is nostalgia not a similar phenomenon?
Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu Movie cast: Ananth, Elango Kumaravel, RJ Vijay, Bhavani Sre
Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu Movie director: Ananth
Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu Movie rating: 9.2
🎬 Movie: Nanban Oruvan Vantha Piragu
📅 Year: 2024
🔊 League: Tamil
🔅 IMDB: 9.2
