Nandhan

Not a review writer, but I just finished watching this film and felt compelled to share my thoughts. I believe this is easily one of the best films of the decade. I'm unsure why it hasn't received more attention.

If you read this review, please watch the film and thank me later. From the writers' note to the end credits, the screenplay is gripping. The post-credit scene was unexpected. Everyone involved, including all the actors and technicians, did a great job.

We all waste time watching a lot of commercial garbage every year. So, if you read this review, please spend 1 hour and 50 minutes watching this film. In the end, you'll be proud to have seen such a gem.

Nadhan, directed by Era.saravanan is a brave attempt. The film talks about discrimination is indirectly happening even in village level politics.

And also shows untouchability still there some places around us from a different perspective.

The film is well-crafted and make us to feel from sufferer's perspective and portrayed specific way how it affects individuals and communities as a whole.

Casting is great. Sasikumar, Balaji Sakthivel and Samuthirakani did excellent role. Sasikumar plays a role different from his typical roles as a kind gentleman characters and intimate friend. Everyone is able to perceive his dedication towards this film.

Typically, some of new face actors tend to let us down when it comes to playing roles that require specific body language and facial expressions. However, all individuals gave impressive performances in this movie.

Congratulations to Era. Saravanan continues to create similar socially impactful movies in the future.

The movie captures the caste and power politics in rural Tamil Nadu very well, particularly how upper caste village chieftain uses his power to subjugate historically oppressed backward caste (SC) folks in his village. The movie also shows the social equations among upper and lower caste folks in rural hinterlands.

But in many scenes the filmmaker has taken too much liberty to show the excessive oppression of SCs by the upper caste village President, which seems caricatured for effect. Hence, after the overdone oppression story, showing the SC protagonist turning the tables on the upper caste ex-President in the climax seems rather unrealistic / implausible, though it makes for a good "happy ending" which most filmmakers aim for for a "successful" movie.

Worth a watch for those who aren't very familiar with rural caste & power politics.

The movie is interesting in so many ways with a note at the beginning, and a titular role which is not of the protagonist (or) antagonist, and how real politics happen instead of the cinematic revenge, killings.

All the characters are brilliant, and even the antagonist mother scores in a scene. The writing and making is brilliant throughout with Samuthrakani being the rescue guardian for the plight of the downtrodden.

The movies climax is beautiful that captures what is real win in politics and democracy. Cinematography and music is brilliant in the confined spaces and the shocking reality comments in epilogue is one to be must watched!!

Nandhan is a powerful and hard-hitting film that shines a spotlight on the deep-rooted issue of casteism in the country. The film is excellently written by the director, who takes an unflinching approach to presenting the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities. The narrative brings to life the struggles and injustices, offering a brutally honest portrayal of the societal system that continues to divide people.

One of the standout elements of Nandhan is its casting. Both Sari Kumar and Samuthirakani deliver stellar performances that elevate the film. It's refreshing to see actors of their caliber take on such a daring and socially relevant script. The risks involved in making a film about such a sensitive subject matter reflect the guts and commitment of the entire team, and their effort is truly commendable.

However, while the film excels in portraying the journey of the protagonist fighting against oppression, there is a missing piece in the narrative. After overcoming severe criticism and attaining power, the story does not delve into how he survives and propels himself forward in the face of continued cruelty. This could have added more depth and closure to the protagonist's arc.

Overall, Nandhan is a film that deserves recognition for its bold storytelling, compelling performances, and its commentary on societal issues. Despite the minor gap in the narrative, it is a must-watch, and I would rate it a solid 10/10 for its sheer courage and impact.