Kaadhal Enbadhu Podhu Udamai Movie Review

In the recent times, Tamil cinema has been witnessing the arrival of a myriad of films based on LGBTQ+ themes. The latest one to join the league is ‘Kaadhal Enbathu Podhu Udamai’, written and directed by Jayaprakash Radhakrishnan. The film has an ensemble star-cast including Lijomol Jose, Anusha Prabhu, Vineeth, Rohini, Kalesh and Deepa in titular roles.

Lakshmi (Rohini) is eagerly anticipating the arrival of her daughter Sam’s (Lijomol Jose) romantic partner. She believes that when her daughter brings her companion home, it is essential for the father to be present as well. Consequently, she requests her estranged ex-husband Devaraj (Vineeth) to come to the house. Sam’s parents had separated when she was still a child. While Lakshmi and Devaraj are waiting to meet Sam’s lover, Sam’s friend Ravindra (Kalesh Ramanand) brings Nandini (Anusha Prabhu). Seeing this, Lakshmi and Devaraj think that he is in love with their daughter Ravindra. But when Sam says that the person he wants to marry is not Ravindra but Nandini, everyone is shocked. Lakshmi immediately sends Nandini away from here. Then, Sam and Nandini break up.

The flashback sequences illustrate the evolution of love between Sam and Nandini. Nandini faces the challenge of addressing issues not only with her mother but also with her father, who has been absent for many years and has now unexpectedly returned, claiming that he can resolve her difficulties.

The emotions of the characters in the film are conveyed effectively. Lijomol Jose has portrayed Sam exceptionally well. Rohini has embodied the character of Lakshmi convincingly. Vineeth is well-suited for the role of Devaraj. Anusha Prabhu has approached the character of Nandini with great insight. Additionally, Kalesh’s comedic performance has contributed positively to the overall experience. When it comes to the technical aspects, the BGM enhances the emotional quotients and cinematography has been done efficiently. There are few sluggish moments in the film and of course, the premise deserves it, which doesn’t turn out to be a bigger minus.

Kadhal Enbathu Podhu Udamai manages to keep us engrossed despite the controversial theme as the backdrop.