Movies this week not just compete with other theatrical releases but with the IPL matches and summer heat – Baak – Aranmanai 4 offers a suspense thriller experience, while Suhas adds his charms to make Prasanna Vadanam a decent watch. The other two films Aa Okkati Adakku & Sabari leave much to be desired – Review by FridayWall Movies Team is based on audience reaction
“Aranmanai 4”, jointly produced by Khushbu Sundar and A.C.S Arun Kumar under the Avni Cinemax and Benzz Media Private Limited banners, delivers a gripping tale of family, mystery, and the supernatural. Sundar C’s direction brings to life the story of Saravanan, a righteous attorney, portrayed convincingly by Sundar C himself, who embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his sister’s murder and protect her children. Tamannaah shines in a dual role, portraying a loving mother and a vengeful spirit. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Hiphop Tamizha, complements the narrative seamlessly. With cinematography by E Krishnasamy and editing by Fenny Oliver, the film offers stunning visuals and tight pacing. Sundar C’s screenplay, co-written with Venkat Ragavan, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they are drawn into a world of ancient mythology and chilling suspense. “Aranmanai 4” is recommended for fans of the thriller genre.
In “Aa Okkati Adakku,” directed by Malli Ankam and produced by Rajiv Chilaka, Ganapathi, played by Allari Naresh, struggles to get married despite being well-settled. When he meets Siddhi (Faria Abdullah), he falls in love – but she isn’t interested. The film delves into Ganapathi’s heartbreak, followed by a court battle and eventual resolution. The film is supposedly a comedy, but the characters are portrayed in a clownish manner, lacking subtlety. The humor falls flat, offering little freshness or innovation. A series of gags on Ganapathi’s single status, the scenes on matrimonial site are too exaggerated.. Aa Okkati Adakku” fails to deliver on its comedic premise, with its in-your-face approach and lack of nuanced storytelling.
Varalaxmi Sarathkumar shines in the lackluster “Sabari,” a psychological thriller directed by debutant Anil Katz. The film follows Sanjana, a single mother battling inner and external demons to protect her daughter. While the initial setup intrigues with Sanjana’s struggles, the narrative loses steam post-intermission. Inspired by “1 Nenokkadine,” the story’s core revelation feels simplistic. The antagonist’s motivations seem trivial, and the film’s reliance on chase sequences becomes unintentionally comedic. “Sabari” attempts realism but falls short due to outdated views on single parenthood and divorce. Apart from Varalaxmi, characters lack depth, with only Shashank’s supportive lawyer leaving an impression. Mime Gopi’s role feels aimless, and the background score adds to the tedium. Despite scenic visuals of Ooty, “Sabari” fails to live up to its initial promise, leaving viewers questioning its hype.
In “Prasanna Vadanam,” Suhas portrays Surya, a Radio Jockey battling Prosopagnosia, which renders him unable to recognize faces, even of close ones like his friend Vignesh (Viva Harsha) and lover Aadhya (Payal Radhakrishna). When Surya witnesses a murder but can’t identify the culprit due to his condition, he turns to ACP Vaidehi (Rashi Singh) for help. Directed by Arjun Y K, the film features Nitin Prasanna, Sai Swetha, and Kushalini in supporting roles. As the police investigation unfolds, Surya’s condition becomes both a challenge and a crucial element in solving the case. Suhas’s portrayal brings charm, complemented by Rashi Singh and the ensemble cast’s solid performances. “Prasanna Vadanam” offers an engaging cinematic experience with its gripping narrative. “Prasanna Vadanam” offers a fairly engaging cinematic experience.
