Meiyazhagan Movie Review – 3.75/5

Meiyazhagan Movie Synopsis:

 

After 22 years, a man who is still troubled by the challenging circumstances that led him to leave his hometown returns. He gets back in touch with a happy, easygoing relative. The man embarks on a quest of self-discovery as he attempts to comprehend the younger person’s character through sincere conversations throughout the evening.

Meiyazhagan Movie Review:

Prem Kumar’s emotional drama Meiyazhagan centers on two opposing men: the quiet, emotionally troubled Arulmozhi Varman (played by Arvind Swami) and the jovial, likeable Karthi, whose identity heightens the tension in the narrative. Arulmozhi returns to Thanjavur for his cousin Bhuvana’s wedding after a twenty-two-year absence.

He is still close to Bhuvana and his loving uncle, Chokku Mama (Rajkiran), even though he is estranged from the majority of his family. Family, feelings, and reconciliation are all explored in the movie.

Arulmozhi intends to return to Chennai that same evening after attending Bhuvana’s wedding reception. But he embarks on a self-discovery journey after meeting an unsuspecting young man. The movie avoids too much melodrama by striking a balance between warmth and melancholy. There are small, poignant scenes as well as poignant moments, particularly between Arulmozhi and Bhuvana.

The scene where a female relative tells Arulmozhi that her life would have been better if she had married him rather than her inebriated husband is one that stands out.

The film’s somber tone is softened by the director’s use of lighthearted quips. Mahendiran Jayaraju’s cinematography masterfully conveys the tranquility of small-town evenings.

Memorable songs like Poraen Naa Poraen and its reprise Yaaro Ivan Yaaro, which is sung passionately by Kamal Haasan, and Govind Vasantha’s poignant score give the film depth and emotional resonance. These components improve the mood of the movie and increase its interest level.

Prem Kumar’s interviews:

Prem Kumar states in his interviews that he began writing his stories as novels, which is evident in the literary tone of Meiyazhagan. Because Prem Kumar chooses a natural flow, scenes feel immersive, as if you’re watching actual conversations, unlike other filmmakers who might have included dramatic, episodic chapters.

However, some scenes—such as those involving a bull or historical speeches—feel excessively long and occasionally appear to be politically motivated. These scenes, along with the slow pacing, give the impression that the movie is a little indulgent and longer than it needs to be.

Even small roles, such as those portrayed by Karunakaran, Raichal Rebecca, and Ilavarasu, leave a lasting impression thanks to the outstanding performances in Meiyazhagan. In their brief appearances, seasoned actors like Rajkiran and Devadarshini portray characters with realism and impact.

Even though Sri Divya enters the story later, she makes an impression as well. However, Arvind Swami and Karthi are the reason the movie is so good. While Karthi deftly portrays a complex role that could have easily been annoying but instead comes across as charming, Arvind portrays intense emotional struggle.