Miles of smiles
“Paranthu Po”
– Review
The plot centers around Shiva, a father struggling with the pressures of middle-class life and endless EMIs, and his eight-year-old, hyperactive son Mithul Ryan.
While Shiva’s wife Grace Antony, is away for a textile expo, Mithul, bored with being cooped up during his half-yearly holidays and forced into online classes, insists on a spontaneous road trip with his father.
What starts as a simple outing quickly transforms into an unexpected adventure, driven by Mithul’s endless demands and Shiva’s weary but willing acquiescence.
The journey takes them through various unplanned detours and colorful encounters. They meet diverse characters, including a street dweller calling himself Emperor, and Gokul’s old school crush, Anjali, who offers a different perspective on life and happiness.
Director Ram has made a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking without being preachy.
His ability to weave in social commentary and philosophical ideas through light-hearted moments and humor is highly appreciable.
Shiva’s portrayal of Gokul, the father, is a major highlight. His natural comedic timing, one-liners, and relatable depiction of an exhausted yet loving middle-class father are impressive.This is easily his best performance to date, showing his versatility beyond pure comedy.
Mithul Ryan as the son is the heart and soul of the film. His authentic and endearing performance, capturing the innocence and demands of an 8-year-old, resonates deeply with audience.
Grace Antony delivers a nuanced performance. Her character’s practicality, warmth, and the realistic portrayal of marital dynamics through phone conversations are all executed well. Her contribution to both the humor and emotional depth of the film is noteworthy.
Santhosh Dhayanidhi’s songs, with Madhan Karky’s lyrics, are integral to the film’s musical treatment. Yuvan Shankar Raja’s background score also complements the narrative effectively.
N.K. Ekambaram’s visuals, particularly the lush green landscapes, natural lighting, and sweeping drone shots, invite the viewers into the journey.
Rating: 3.7/5
By Naveen
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